A Shocking Opening: An Ottumwa, Iowa, City Council meeting erupted into controversy Tuesday after former council member Matt Dalbey delivered an invocation ending with the words “Hail Satan.” The incident immediately triggered a confrontation over religion, free expression and the city’s controversial new invocation policy.
The Invocation: Dalbey, who said he is a member of the Satanic Temple of Iowa, delivered the invocation before the Pledge of Allegiance. He later said the prayer came from the organization but does not represent belief in a literal satanic deity. The Satanic Temple describes itself as non-theistic.
The Backlash: New Life Center Pastor Rick Bick immediately objected, calling the invocation a “curse” on the city and demanding that it be reversed. Mayor Benjamin Foote responded by calling for 30 seconds of silence before the council continued its business.
The Policy Behind The Controversy: Ottumwa adopted its invocation policy in January. The policy permits any city resident to voluntarily deliver an invocation regardless of religious affiliation, non-affiliation, belief system or lack thereof. The policy specifically states that the council does not endorse any particular faith or belief.
Council member Cara Galloway, the lone dissenting vote when the policy was adopted, said the confrontation illustrated concerns she had previously raised.
Related News Watchmen Coverage
• McKinney City Council Approves Massive New Islamic Center
• Report Details Intensifying Crackdown on Underground Christians in China
• Minneapolis Continues Public Broadcast of Islamic Call to Prayer
Prophecy Watch: Christians are called to exercise discernment while remaining faithful to Scripture. Jesus warned believers to “take heed that no man deceive you” (Matthew 24:4).
Frequently Asked Questions
• Where did this happen? Ottumwa, Iowa.
• Who delivered the invocation? Former council member Matt Dalbey.
• How did it end? With “Hail Satan.”
• Why was it allowed? Ottumwa’s policy permits residents of differing beliefs to give invocations.
• What happens next? Dalbey is scheduled for another invocation on November 3.
Affiliate Disclosure:
Some links in my articles may bring me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support of my work here!
Leave a comment