Happy Halloween from The Black House!

Halloween is a cherished holiday for many who call themselves Satanists. It can be enjoyed as a time for viewing favorite monster films. It may serve as the night one evokes the thrill of “fun fear” by going to the best local “haunted attractions,” wrought with loving care to terrify those who enter their portals—be they grand or cheesy. It has long been an occasion for wearing masks and costumes that might be sinister, amusing, seductive or which reveal personal aspects or interests typically kept hidden from others. We encourage all who enjoy this holiday to explore their “inner darkness”—a form of civilized “lycanthropy” that for us is common practice. It can be a most satisfying means for attaining deeper self-knowledge.

Here in the haunted Hudson Valley, we carry on the tradition of giving out candy to those “Trick or Treaters” who brave the night to approach our dark Victorian manse—those with costumes of a more monstrous nature tend to get extra. My wife Peggy and I were married on Halloween and tonight we celebrate the 34th anniversary of that formal joining of our lives. Back then, a Halloween wedding was most unusual. It took some effort to gather suitable trappings for our costumed ball. Now it has become a typical time for couples to be wed. Our clergy is joyfully celebrating Satanic nuptials in locations around the globe to bring together differing and same sex couples founding new families. The High Priestess and I offer our blessings to tonight’s newlyweds, and to other couples who have shared this magical wedding night. May your passions be unparalleled!

—Magus Peter H. Gilmore