In the U.S., a representative of the "Church of Satan" opened a city council meeting with a prayer to the devil

An incident in the American city of Ottumwa, Iowa, sparked a wave of public outrage after former city council member Matt Dalby opened an official city meeting with a prayer to Satan. The speech drew sharp criticism from the local religious community.

Matt Dalby, representing the organization “The Satanic Temple,” called on those present in his speech to reject Christian dogma, emphasizing the “Luciferian impulse.” His words provoked an immediate negative reaction from local believers. In particular, Pastor Rick Bick demanded that the meeting be halted, stating that the city had been “cursed” due to the public glorification of Satan.

In response to public demands, the Ottumwa authorities issued an official statement. Officials explained that, according to current regulations, they are required to grant the floor to representatives of any registered group. “We cannot discriminate against religious denominations,” the city emphasized, adding that the content of the speeches is not approved in advance and does not reflect the position of city officials.