Satanic communities in North Alabama
Modern Satanism includes several distinct groups that differ widely in belief. The Satanic Temple, founded in 2013, is a nontheistic religion that does not believe in a literal Satan or the supernatural. It uses Satan as a literary symbol of rebellion against arbitrary authority. NAWD lists local chapters and congregations that identify as Satanic, without endorsing or evaluating them, and is ready to list any in North Alabama.
Beliefs and teachings
The Satanic Temple is guided by seven fundamental tenets, which emphasize compassion for all creatures, the struggle for justice, bodily autonomy, scientific understanding and the freedom to make mistakes. Other groups, such as the Church of Satan, founded in 1966, hold different, mostly atheistic philosophies. Theistic Satanists exist as well, and these groups are not the same.
Practice and community
Chapters hold meetings, hold community service projects such as charity drives and cleanups, and take part in religious-liberty advocacy and education. Rituals are usually theatrical or symbolic and are not devil worship in the popular sense.
Visiting
Public events are open to everyone. Contact the chapter for meeting information, and note that some gatherings are private.