Satanic Temple Launches Religious Program for Ohio Elementary Students
The Satanic Temple is making waves in Ohio as it prepares to offer a new religious program at an elementary school, responding to parent requests for an alternative to the traditional Christian “release” program. Release time religious instruction programs have a long history, dating back to the early 20th century, allowing students a short period during the school day for religious instruction.
Controversy Surrounding the Program
At Edgewood elementary school in Marysville, Ohio, where the Satanic Temple’s program will be implemented, the evangelical LifeWise program has been removing students for 55 minutes each week. This program is known for its distinctive “big red bus” that transports students to offsite locations, such as local churches or community centers, for instruction.
In recent years, release time programs like LifeWise have seen a resurgence, particularly in Ohio. LifeWise, which began in two districts in 2019, has grown to 325 programs across 12 states by 2023. This growth has been accompanied by controversy, as religious release programs have raised concerns among other religious groups, including Catholics.
Satanic Temple’s Mission and Response
The Satanic Temple, a “non-theistic” church recognized by the IRS, aims to promote pluralism among religious views, empathy, and the rejection of tyrannical authority. One of their notable actions includes unveiling a 7ft-tall bronze Baphomet statue at the Arkansas capitol to protest the installation of a Ten Commandments monument.
The Satanic Temple’s newly launched program, Hellion Academy of Independent Learning (Hail), was initiated in response to parents seeking an alternative to the Christian program in Marysville, which some felt marginalized non-Christian students. The program will focus on self-directed learning, community service, compassion, creative expression, critical thinking, and more, promising a blend of education and fun for participating students.
Call for Legislation and Response
While LifeWise’s CEO and founder, Joel Penton, believes all families should have the opportunity to choose religious study during school hours, the Satanic Temple has raised concerns about the use of peer pressure and incentives like field trips and snacks to attract students to religious programs. The Temple’s director of campaign operations, Erin Helian, emphasized the importance of not preying upon children in the name of religion.
Despite differing views on religious release programs, the discussion has sparked debates about legislation, with calls for Ohio House Bill 445 to require school districts to authorize such programs. The Satanic Temple’s entry into this arena has brought attention to the need for inclusivity and respect for diverse religious perspectives in educational settings.