An organization describing itself as The Satanic Temple of Iowa erected an altar depicting a silver ram’s head on a mannequin adorned with a red cape and surrounded by candles and flowers in the State Capital, according to local KKCI Des Moines. The statue also holds a red wreath with an inverted pentagram.

How did it happen? • The Capitol structure falls under the control of the Iowa Legislature. The Department of Administrative Services (DAS) is charged with the management. • Currently, access for displays at the Capitol are open to anyone through an application process. Though there are some guidelines, they do not discriminate based on religion or ideology. • Displays are permitted to be displayed for two weeks. • All displays are required to communicate they are an independent display and not to be associated with the State of Iowa. • The Satanic Temple petitioned for their display in August and were approved with some modification. They wanted to use an actual goat head (I’m assuming a skull) and we’re prohibited from doing so. • The Iowa Legislature can set the rules and standards for any display. The current operating principle has been to either allow all displays or none. The Legislature has the power to change it if they deem it necessary.

Iowa state Rep. Jon Dunwell, a Republican and Christian pastor gave this helpful response:

My response as a follower of Christ… The display is an inanimate object that has no real power in and of itself. We have nothing to fear. Oppose the message of the display. It is not just another way to worship the same god. The DIFFERENCES need to be pointed out. The display glorifies the evil influence we oppose. The primary response required is prayer. The display itself shows us the work we have yet to do. Iowa needs Jesus. The display provides a teaching example for our families of the difference between the person and work of Christ and that of Satan. (Love, light, and sacrifice compared to a dark, foreboding creature). My faith is never imposed upon others, nor should it ever become a direct part of government. It is always a response to the person and work of Jesus Christ. I don’t want to mix the kingdoms! The government is a poor arbitrator of religion. Take full advantage of the opportunities to express our faith in appropriate displays and programs at the Capitol.

This Satanic image is a reminder that Satan and his demons will be cast down to the Earth and demonic activity will increase.

“Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.” Revelation 12:7-9