Kansas governor mandates ‘black mass’ outside capitol within 80 characters

By Jonah McKeown

CNA Staff, Mar 12, 2025 / 18:55 pm

Amid outcry from Catholics over a “black mass” slated to take place at the Kansas state capitol building on March 28, Governor Laura Kelly on Wednesday said she has “limited authority” to cancel the event, instead decreeing that the event must take place outside, and not inside the building itself.

The Satanic Grotto, the Kansas group purportedly organizing the March 28 “black mass,” says the event is intended to “dedicate the grounds and our legislature to the glory of Satan.” The group will be “performing rites” and “indulging in sacrilegious blaspheme [sic].”

“Satanist” groups intending to stage so-called “black masses” — a direct mockery of the Catholic Mass — have on at least one occasion boasted of possessing a stolen consecrated host with an intent to desecrate the Eucharist in an unspecified but profane ritual.

A petition launched by a Catholic group asking Kelly to shut down the event claims to have attracted nearly 34,600 signatures as of Wednesday.

In a March 12 statement, Kelly said she shares many of the concerns Catholics have raised about the “black mass,” noting there are “more constructive ways to protest and express disagreements without insulting or denigrating sacred religious symbols.”

“However, as governor, I also have a duty to protect protesters’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression, regardless of how offensive or distasteful I might find the content to be.

Controversy Erupts Over Planned “Black Mass” at Kansas State Capitol

Amidst growing concern and outrage, Governor Kelly of Kansas has addressed the planned “black mass” event scheduled to take place on March 28 at the State Capitol. Due to constitutional protections, the Governor’s Office has limited authority to intervene in such situations.

In an effort to balance public access with health and safety regulations, Governor Kelly has insisted that the event must be held outside on the capitol grounds rather than inside the building itself. This decision has sparked mixed reactions from various groups, including Chuck Weber, executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.

Weber criticized the Governor’s response, describing it as condescending and ignorant of the true nature of the event. He expressed dismay over the approval of a “vile and despicable Satanic worship ritual” on the grounds of the State Capitol, calling for stronger condemnation of such acts of hatred and anti-Catholic bigotry.

Furthermore, Weber revealed that the organizer of the group behind the “black mass” has been harassing Catholic leaders and boasting of his intention to “kill Jesus.” This disturbing behavior has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of the community.

In response to the planned event, the Catholic bishops of Kansas have encouraged the faithful to counter it through prayer, good works, and advocacy. They emphasize the importance of addressing anti-Catholic bigotry and standing up for religious freedom in the face of such provocations.

As the controversy unfolds, both spiritual and legal actions are being considered to address the situation. The bishops urge all people of goodwill to join them in prayer for the conversion of those involved in the event and for a renewed sense of respect and tolerance in the community.

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