During the era of the Inquisition, a period marked by the Church's intense efforts to preserve its authority and religious orthodoxy, a campaign of misinformation was waged against various groups, notably pagans and the Knights Templar, who held differing beliefs. These groups were accused of heresy, dualistic beliefs, and supposed "Satanism," and were seen as existential threats to the established Christian order, making them prime targets for elimination.
The Inquisition's inquisitors, driven by a mix of religious zeal and political motives, fabricated sensational accounts of heretical rituals, such as black masses. These stories depicted supposed rituals involving the desecration of the Eucharist, blasphemous ceremonies, and devil worship. One of the most egregious fabrications was the notion that Satanists were abducting unbaptized children for sacrificial purposes. This falsehood spread widely and instilled deep fear in the populace.
The Church and its proponents extensively circulated these fabricated stories, which found credence among a significant portion of the population. This propaganda not only served to legitimize the Inquisition's brutal actions but also proved financially lucrative. Anxious parents, terrified of the idea that their unbaptized children might be targeted by Satanists, paid for the baptism of their children to protect them from this imagined threat. This manipulation tactic not only controlled society but also coerced people into conforming to the Church's beliefs and directives. Although not the exclusive method employed, it was undeniably one of the most effective.
Remarkably, vestiges of these medieval myths persist today. The notion of a malevolent Satan, the ultimate antagonist, continues to hold sway in various cultures, religions, and societies worldwide. This concept, deeply rooted in Christian theology, has permeated countless narratives, attributing humanity's misfortunes to a sinister, all-powerful force. The belief in an evil entity causing suffering and chaos spans not just the Catholic Church or the Middle Ages, but stretches throughout human history, influencing diverse religious and cultural contexts.
It is important to recognize that Real Satanism does not endorse or engage in harmful actions, particularly against children. In fact, one of our 'Ten Commandments' is about the protection of them. But you need to distinguish between Real Satanism and those who falsely claim to be Satanists and use the name of Satan to justify their criminal actions. It is important to emphasize that such actions are not condoned or accepted by our doctrine, that it is a peaceful and lawful belief system.
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