In a recent viral clip from an Iowa hearing, a Satanic Temple minister, Mortimer Adramelech, delivered a poignant response to HF 2073, a proposed bill that aims to allow chaplains to serve as employees or volunteers in Iowa public schools.
Adramelech's opposition to the bill was rooted in his belief in the constitutional principle of the separation of church and state.
During the hearing, Adramelech expressed his concerns about the bill, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the separation between religious institutions and public education, as outlined in the U.S. Constitution. His comments resonated with many who shared the clip widely across social media platforms.
He also gave the following iconic response about his overall "excitement" in the event the bill does pass:
“I personally oppose HF 2073 because I believe in the separation of church and state, but if the bill does pass, I’m excited for the opportunities it presents for the Satanic Temple to support services and programs to school children in our state."
“Iowa has several ordained ministers of Satan and we would be happy to engage children. Hail, Satan; hail, Iowa, and thank you for your time.”
You can see the video of his remarks below.
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The Satanic Temple—contrary to protesters' allegations it promotes Satanism and is a detriment to the nation's youth—is a nontheistic human rights group whose website states the organization "promotes egalitarianism, social justice, and the separation of religion and state."
The story quickly gained traction and was shared by Lucien Greaves, the Satanic Temple's co-founder and spokesperson.
Adramelech's response indicated the organization will not back down from its mandate—and many celebrated his commitment to the children of Iowa.
Despite opposition from Adramelech and others, the bill has been gaining momentum in recent weeks, raising questions about the potential implications for the relationship between religion and public schools in Iowa.
The proposed bill echoes a similar legislative move in Texas in 2023, where a bill allowing chaplains in public schools was successfully passed. Supporters of the Iowa bill have pointed to Texas as an example of successful implementation.
According to the provisions of this legislation, individuals aspiring to serve as public school chaplains are not required to possess any certification, expertise, licensure, or professional background. Additionally, the legislation does not specify any faith-based restrictions, although one of the bill's sponsors has hinted at a potential focus on Christians.