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Anton LaVey's eldest daughter, Karla, founded the First Satanic Church on October 31, 1999. Karla felt that there were a few things lacking in Satanism at the time and through the First Satanic Church she hopes to bring back some of the things that have been lost over the years.
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The Church of Satan was founded in 1966 by Anton Szandor LaVey. Members of the church follow the teachings brought forth in his The Satanic Bible and practice rituals outlined therein. Members also believe that LaVey is the founder of not only their denomination, but of all forms of Satanism as well. The Church of Satan states that they are the true Satanists, and that others are liars or not practicing the "true" religion.
The Church of Satan formed from LaVey's earlier group The Order of the Trapezoid. Among this group included many prominent figures, as well as people from all backgrounds and professions. However, it wasn't until LaVey formed the Church of Satan that some of these beliefs and practices came into the public eye.
Although still a thriving worldwide organization today, the Church of Satan does not recruit new members. Those who wish to become part of the church simply send in a one-time fee, which guarantees them membership for life. Each member also carries a numbered, red membership card, along with the privilege of witnessing and participating in rituals, events, and contact with other church members.
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Due to differing viewpoints within the religion, several different groups have surfaced. Not all Satanists subscribe to LaVey's philosophy, and believe that Satanism has much older roots. Others don't worship an actual deity, but more of a dark life force.
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The Temple of the Satanic Witch is both an online community and a local church, currently operating in Georgia that focuses on bringing Satanists together to make a difference in their local communities. The temple urges its member to get involved with local town and city matters, and to proudly display themselves as Satanists and free-thinkers.
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