Some info for you based on your question as well as responses to others in this thread. I am a spokesperson for The Church of Satan.
Most people read about Satanism and realize what you did “Wow! That already explains me.” Satanists are not recruited so you either feel it or don’t and no one can convert you.
There is no charge to join the religion as someone mentioned. There is a charge to join the organization. Anyone who finds they resonate with the philosophy of Satanism can practice and no joining is required. Beyond a copy of The Satanic Bible, that is completely free.
Many choose to support the organization The Church of Satan. Like any other organization it requires cash to run. Unlike churches that ask for 10 percent as a tithe forever, or others who charge for degrees or steps, those who wish to be registered members of The Church of Satan pay a onetime fee for life. They are made no false promises about membership. They are aware they get a membership card and the opportunity to become an Active Member, but the fee is a tribute and those who balk at it are not coerced or in any way pressured.
Satanism is a new religion. Prior to 1966 there was never, in all of history and culture, a group of people who had a codified religious system, with dogma and ritual, that was called “Satanism.” Prior to 1966 there were (and still are) Christian Heretics, devil worshipers, demonologists and all manner of reverse Christians but there were NEVER Satanists prior to Anton LaVey forming The Church of Satan and writing The Satanic Bible.
The Joy of Satan is a legal religious group run by a devil worshiping Christian heretic and her Neo-Nazi husband. They use the word “Satanist” to describe themselves and that is both wrong and embarrassing. Satanists are beyond silly concepts like gods and devils and demons and the like. Satanists worship only their own divine lives and Satan is an archetype, a metaphor, for the Satanist, like the fictional Satan, represents a quest for wisdom and a pride in self. The Satanist will never bow before a God rather than reason.
The Church of Satan wishes these Joy of Satan devil worshiping weaklings—who actually have whole pages up endorsing such stupidity as blood signing oaths to sell one’s soul and how to lie to your parents to become a devil worshiper. would drop dead. Quickly. They are withoput merit.
And, at the risk of being repetitive, The Church of Satan is not trying to recruit anyone and knows very well that we are and will always be a minority religion. Our life philosophy is not one that lends itself to large numbers, and we are comfortable with that. Those interested in reality may check these out:
My Blog About Satanism vs. Devil Worship
The Official, one and only, Church of Satan
Thanks, and be well.
Ygraine
