Since I Saw Vienna: The Unlikely Origins of Satanism

Ron Hubbard's creation of Scientology is often seen as a catalyst for the rise of cults in California, but few know that it was actually a publicist who dubbed him the 'first priest of Satan' that sparked his idea to start his own religion. This article will delve into the unlikely origins of Satanism and its connection to Hubbard's early endeavors.

Zeena Schreck, daughter of Anton LaVey, the founder of the Church of Satan (CoS), recalls her father experimenting with various gimmicks to market himself in San Francisco. He would hold lectures he referred to as the 'magic circle,' host burlesque shows featuring strippers dressed as witches and vampires, and even take his pet lion for walks around the city. While these efforts may seem frivolous, they laid the groundwork for LaVey's eventual creation of Satanism.

In an interview with VICE, Schreck reflected on the early days of Satanism, which she was too young to remember. Despite this, her life has been marked by spiritual growth and a sense of inner peace. Interestingly, during our conversation, she seemed to anticipate several questions I was about to ask, leaving me wondering if she indeed possesses magical powers.

In 2002, Schreck co-founded the Sethian Liberation Movement, a religious organization that allows individuals to learn and practice magic without the constraints of an oppressive sect. The movement also aims to help ex-cult members overcome their troubled pasts. Schreck's journey has been marked by perseverance, as she managed to rebel against her self-absorbed upbringing and leave the CoS in 1990 with her husband, Nikolas Schreck.

At just 13 years old, Zeena had become completely indoctrinated into the CoS, received regular death threats, and was even pregnant. Despite these challenges, she went on to become ordained as the high priestess and spokesperson of the CoS during the height of the Reagan era's fascination with tales of Satanic cults sacrificing children in the woods.

Zeena Schreck's remarkable story serves as a testament to the power of rebellion against oppressive forces. Her journey from chaos to spiritual peace is an inspiration, and her work with the Sethian Liberation Movement continues to empower individuals seeking a more authentic connection with magic and spirituality.

Since i saw vienna