What Do You Guys Think Of This "Satanic Temple?"

[Shannon1981]

If you haven't heard, a group of Satanists performed a "Pink Mass" on the grave of Fred Phelps' mother. Now, it is pretty hilarious, but I have my misgivings about the public image it will give to gays and non believers of many stripes. Do you guys think this was wise, or not? I'll link an article about it at the bottom if you do not know what I am talking about.

Also, broader question: as many here likely know, Satanists (of the LaVeyan variety) are atheistic in belief. Are these dramatic attention seekers harmful to the cause of non believers?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/22/satanic-temple-westboro-baptist-church_n_3634392.html

[arcane1]

1. It's a stunt, just like the ones the WBC does.

I doubt it will have any lasting effect other than mocking the WBC themselves.

[dusty trails]

2. Love it

I don't think it'll give gays a bad name.
Most people will see it as the Phelps getting 'punked'.

[Warpy]

3. I found it juvenile, that is all.

The only way it would have worked is if the Phelps clan had overreacted and opened themselves to the type of lawsuit they rely on their own shenanigans to generate. That's where the bulk of their income comes from, lawsuits.

[SwissTony]

11. I personally wouldn't stoop to the level of the WBC.

But I can see the rationale behind it.

But why are the cops involved? If bad taste were a crime, all of the WBC would be behind bars.

[dimbear]

4. In general, all gag religions are to the good. There must be exceptions,

but their very existence shows that religion's power ain't what it used to be. FSM, Church of Bob, Bettie Bowers, they're all good.

[Shannon1981]

5. Good Point.

I actually toyed with the idea of atheistic Satanism, but I guess I just find it too silly to really do anything but think about it. Hilarious, though. I am just always thinking of the wider implications of stuff like this. In reading comments around the web, people are pretty pissed off.

[awoke_in_2003]

9. Don't forget the Church of the Latter Day Dude. nt

[Warren DeMontague]

6. I'd say the officiant has a ridiculous hat, but the two couples look like lovely folks.

I just hope they did the Reception somewhere nicer.

[JoeyT]

7. I don't think the LaVeyans are hurting the cause.

I generally think they're silly, but the people that would think Satanist = Atheist probably weren't ever going to like us much anyway.

[LostOne4Ever]

8. Me?

I thought it was funny.

I doubt a religious person would find it amusing though.

Either way i am savoring the irony of WBC getting a taste of its own medicine for a change.

[Iggo]

10. Hilarious.