Satanists Put Up Their Own Holiday Display On Capital Grounds And A Senator Takes Them On

The Michigan State Capitol Commission approved the

display, which the Detroit-based groups calls a Snaketivity Scene. It features a Satanic crucifix with the words “The Greatest Gift is Knowledge.” A red snake and book are also part of the display that will be up from Dec. 21-23.

On its Facebook page, the group states that, “just as the Nativity represents a mythology of the birth of Christ, the Snake is symbolic of the birth human enlightenment and liberation.”

In the meantime, State Sen. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge posted on his Facebook Page

A group wanted to put up a Christian Nativity scene at the Capitol. But the rules are that it must be put up in the morning and taken down at night. No one volunteered.

A Satanic group came forward and will put up a "Snaketivity Scene" honoring Satanic worship.

I cannot stand by and allow Satan to win this one. I have volunteered to put up and take down the Christian Nativity scene everyday.

Merry CHRISTmas

Senator Jones and his volunteer group are looking to put a

Michigan Senator Rick Jones (R)

Nativity on the grounds as well. The Michigan State Capitol Commission had approved plans for one, but those plans didn't move forward because the backer was from out of state, and couldn't find someone to put up and tear down the display every day. 

Permanent displays are not allowed at the Capitol.  Senator Jones says he will find someone to maintain the display.

Senator Jones said he planned to speak with the original Nativity scene backers today to arrange delivery of the display, but that if the group couldn't get it to him, he would go to Bronner's Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth and buy one himself.

The Satanist group doesn't actually worship the Christian devil and is aligned with atheist groups in protesting religious displays on public grounds. An official with the Detroit chapter said Monday the Satanist display is meant to promote knowledge and highlight the diversity of beliefs in the state.  This same group is reported to behind the anti-Christmas billboards popping up along major highways across the United States. 

Also this morning morning another Christian group applied to display a traditional Nativity at the site. John Truscott of the State Capitol Commission said he expects their permit to be approved by the end of the day.