F.A.Q. Sexuality & Gender

F.A.Q. Sexuality & Gender

What does the Church of Satan think about homosexuality?

We fully accept all forms of human sexual expression between consenting adults. The Church of Satan has always accepted gay, lesbian, bisexual and asexual members since its beginning in 1966. This is addressed in the chapter “Satanic Sex” in The Satanic Bible by Anton Szandor LaVey.

What about gay marriage?

We support the legalization of gay marriage. See this essay by Peter H. Gilmore, “Founding Family,” to understand why. Also this essay explores why allowing this civil right to become legal has found resistance.

Does the Church of Satan accept transgender people?

Yes. We have done so since the organization was founded in 1966. The Church of Satan’s philosophy promotes individuals empowering themselves so as to seek personal satisfaction. Magus Anton LaVey embraced people from the entire LGTBQ spectrum wholeheartedly—and well in advance of most other religious organizations—and Magus Gilmore proudly maintains that position. We consider it intrinsic to Satanism to support our fellows’ search for fulfillment so long as it involves other consenting mature, self-aware adults, even when our own pursuits are different. As Magus LaVey wrote in his essay Diabolica: "Man prides himself on being the only animal who can modify his Nature, yet when he chooses to do so he is called a phony." We in the Church of Satan support the decision to modify one's nature employing whatever means are available should one choose that path to attain fulfillment.

If one of our members wishes a membership card reflecting a name change due to a gender identity different from when they originally joined, please supply proof of your updated legal ID for our records. We will then supply an updated membership card.

Anton LaVey refers to “The Mating Signal”—what is that?

The “Mating Signal” is shorthand for the normal adult responses showing that a person might have an interest in you sexually. Most sexually active adults can tell when another adult is attracted to them with erotic intent, and it is a combination of factors that Dr. LaVey felt it more succinct to refer to in that way, rather than cataloguing the dilated pupils, quickened breath, flushed skin, and other visible signs.

What about S&M? Isn’t that a requirement for Satanists?

Anton LaVey made it very clear in his writings that all forms of human sexual expression between consenting, responsible adults are endorsed by Satanism. That can even mean the avoidance of sex altogether. Masturbation is considered natural and healthy. Additionally, LaVey advocated the idea of exploring personal sexual fetishes as a means for erotic fulfillment. Especially after sexologists began issuing reports based on surveys, Dr. LaVey noted it is likely that everyone would be considered a deviant based on their personal means for gratification should they be compared with that of others. The S&M and B&D fetish practices at this point are well explored and can be easily researched if one is attracted to such experiences. But there is no requirement that any Satanist participate in B&D, S&M or any form of sexual activity that is not to his or her taste.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?

From time to time, you may find yourself with a question that is not addressed in the F.A.Q., or literature. We welcome all intelligent and informed questions.

You may submit your question via our web form found on our contact page, or via email at administration@churchofsatan.com.

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