There are no local branches of the Church of Satan. All memberships are processed out of the New York office. No other requirements or fees are required after this registration period. Keep your membership card safe. It is how you will officially identify yourself to other members of the organization. [1] X Research source
Several questions on the application refer to The Satanic Bible. Make sure to do your homework before applying. Read “The Satanic Scriptures” to gain more insight into what it means to be a Satanist, and the thought process behind the founders of the religion, to be better prepared for the application. You must first be a registered member to become an active member.
The Church of Satan has six ranks for its members: “Registered,” “Active Member,” “Witch/Warlock,” “Priestess/Priest,” “Magistra/Magister,” and “Maga/Magus. ” Holding a Third, Fourth, or Fifth degree considers you a part of the Priesthood of Mendes, and grants the title “Reverend. ”[2] X Research source
Satan represents indulgence instead of abstinence! Satan represents vital existence instead of spiritual pipe dreams! Satan represents undefiled wisdom instead of hypocritical self-deceit! Satan represents kindness to those who deserve it instead of love wasted on ingrates! Satan represents vengeance instead of turning the other cheek! Satan represents responsibility to the responsible instead of concern for psychic vampires! Satan represents man as just another animal, sometimes better, more often worse than those that walk on all-fours, who, because of his “divine spiritual and intellectual development,” has become the most vicious animal of all! Satan represents all of the so-called sins, as they all lead to physical, mental, or emotional gratification! Satan has been the best friend the Church has ever had, as He has kept it in business all these years![5] X Research source
Do not give opinions or advice unless you are asked. Do not tell your troubles to others unless you are sure they want to hear them. When in another’s lair, show him respect or else do not go there. If a guest in your lair annoys you, treat him cruelly and without mercy. Do not make sexual advances unless you are given the mating signal. Do not take that which does not belong to you unless it is a burden to the other person and he cries out to be relieved. Acknowledge the power of magic if you have employed it successfully to obtain your desires. If you deny the power of magic after having called upon it with success, you will lose all you have obtained. Do not complain about anything to which you need not subject yourself. Do not harm little children. Do not kill non-human animals unless you are attacked or for your food. When walking in open territory, bother no one. If someone bothers you, ask him to stop. If he does not stop, destroy him. [6] X Research source
Stupidity. The Satanist should endeavor to educate himself in all things. Pretentiousness. Don’t posture as something greater than you are – this can lead to further sins. Solipsism. Do not forget that the world includes many more than just yourself. Do unto others as they do unto you. Self-deceit. Don’t act like something you know you are not. Herd Conformity. The antithesis of thinking for yourself. Lack of Perspective. Though independence is important in Satanism, do not let it cloud your judgment. Forgetfulness of Past Orthodoxies. Move forward with your future, but never forget the past. Counterproductive Pride. Pride is important for recognizing your worth, but do not let it get you in over your head. Lack of Aesthetics. Take care of yourself and your body. [7] X Research source
Part of being independent is questioning your own beliefs and assumptions. Satanism is steeped heavily in questioning the things around you. Make your own decisions. Don’t feel the need to agree with a fellow Satanist just because they are a Satanist. It is expected that you make your own decisions and hold your own opinions to truly be independent.
Rituals need not be performed under candlelight or the dark of the moon. Concentration and the ability to focus are all that is necessary. You can achieve this however works best for you. Greater Magic is concerned with the self, and changing your own thoughts and feelings. Lesser Magic is concerned with changing the thoughts and feelings of others through your own efforts. [8] X Research source
Independent channels such as Craigslist or Backpage can be helpful in finding likeminded individuals. Some social websites exist for finding fellow Satanists, including the Satanic International Network[9] X Research source . Take care when meeting strangers. Make sure they are official card carrying members of the religion, and remember, you won’t necessarily get on with or agree with every Satanist you meet![10] X Research source
Satanists also worship nature, making the changing of seasons, such as the equinox or solstices, a great chance for celebration. Halloween is celebrated for what it has become. Many Satanists enjoy the idea that, just once a year, the general public is willing to become self-centered. Christmas is considered a celebration of indulgence after the original Pagan holiday Saturnalia. Thus, despite what Christmas stands for to Christians, Satanists have no issues celebrating this holiday. Buy presents for your friends, drink, and have fun![11] X Research source
Satanists are advised to engage in illegal substances at their own peril. Though independence is important to Satanists, the church does not condone illegal activities. [12] X Research source
