Hello. I will soon be applying as a registered member and am interested in active membership as well. I noticed that a recent photo is required along with the application for active membership. I'm just curious as to why a photograph is needed. Thank you for your time and patience.

HS!

Because active membership implies a potential to meet other Satanists (including those who may be reading your application) and it would be helpful to know who to expect.

In part it has to do with providing positive identification should you find yourself invited to a COS event.

It also assists in evaluating who you are. If you've read "The Satanic Witch" you'll have an idea of what I am referring to.

Fair enough.

The idea of giving my legal name and a photograph made me a bit cautious. I'm confident there would be negative professional and social repercussions if it became publicly known that I'm a Satanist.

Thank you for answering my question. I will be filling out the active membership application shortly ... what could be a better Christmas present to oneself than membership in the CoS?

HS!

I am currently reading "The Satanic Witch," makes perfect sense. Thank you for pointing it out.

The COS does not divulge membership information. This is kept in strict confidence.

Unless you are some sort of criminal, wanted by the authorities.

LOL ... no worries there. I am wanted, but not by authorities.

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Is there an actual background check? If one where to have a record from early "ignorant days" yet no active warrants would that hinder membership?

Curious,
James Blood

>> Is there an actual background check? If one where to have a record from early "ignorant days" yet no active warrants would that hinder membership? <<

If one is a former criminal it raises questions and does not place them in good stead anywhere in life, not just the Church of Satan.

We expect our members to be responsiible members of society - and that includes their responsibility to the authorities.

The point here is that we respect the confidentiality and privacy of our members; but if it emerges that one of our members is wanted by the authorities we will gladly offer the information legally required of us.

Definitely understandable, i was only curious as to that exact procedure.