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When you think satanism, you think devil worshippers, rituals and people dressed up in black cloacks.

According to the last census in 2011, there are 2,095 Satanists across the UK with churches around the country.

It is not known how many of those people are from Somerset but there have been previous attempts to open a satanist church.

John Collins previously hoped to establish a base for the American Temple of the Satanic Revelations in and around Taunton in 2001 but retracted his plans.

But another man, Reverend Chris Reeves, announced plans to open his own Satanist church in the county town.

Not a lot is known about the plans but here's what we do know.

What is Satanism?

There are two types of Satanism - the first traditional Satanism which worships the Devil as a person while the second is modern Satanism, which worships Satan as an symbol.

The modern form of the religion, which Chris Reeves practiced, typically involves a travesty of Christian symbols and practices, such as placing a cross upside down.

Followers do not worship Satan or any other form of the devil as they class themselves as atheists but he is used as a "symbol of pride".

The Church of Satan, founded in the mid-1960s, explains it this way on its website: "Satan to us is a symbol of pride, liberty and individualism, and it serves as an external metaphorical projection of our highest personal potential.

"We do not believe in Satan as a being or person."

Satanists are free to celebrate any holidays such as Christmas.

What were the plans for a Satanist church?

In February 2005, Chris Reeves, a Satanist priest, proposed to open a church in Taunton as soon as he could find an adequate site.

The church would have hosted baptisms, weddings, funerals and rituals - all of which Chris would have conducted.

Its followers would have dressed up in black cloaks which covered their faces and helped conduct spiritual rituals.

Mr Reeves said that animal sacrifices would not be undertaken at the church as he is "strictly against sacrifice".

He told BBC Somerset the town was right place for such church, stating: "I believe there is a strong interest which necessitates having a Satanic church which people can approach."

What views would his church have preached?

(Image: Artranq)

Chris said his form of Satanism is about "being yourself" and "making yourself feel good without hurting anyone".

He said: "A lot of people feel they need something else, to be a part of something.

"As with Christianity, people go to Church because they want to. Satanists get bad press, however.

"We're accused of being the devil himself and people are frightened of the religion."

What was the reaction?

(Image: Getty)

A lot of people in the area expressed concern at Chris Reeve's plans.

One user on the comments section told Mr Reeves to "stick a clock in your mouth" while another called the church "very dangerous".

Joseba said: "So you're a Satanist who doesn't believe in God or the Devil.

"Isn't it a bit misleading calling yourselves Satanists as the article suggests?"

Mr Reeves defended any criticism of satanism and told critics to look at other religions' "own blood thirsty past" and added he was a loving person.

But an anonymous user was keen to learn more and expected an interest in the church.

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"I'm glad to see that this is coming to my neighbourhood", he said.

"With the acceptance of the many other religions coming to the UK, its about time we had more exposure to other choices."

Alexis said: "I am glad that a Satanist church will be built.

"Satan represents the philosophy of the religion but is not a real, living entity, conscious or a physical thing that can be interacted with.

"I hope you will find a suitable site soon!"

What happened?

In short, it's not known what happened.

A detailed search of the planning applications since 2005 on Taunton Deane Borough Council's website shows no plans were submitted for a new church or a change of use.

As for Chris Reeve - he appears to have disappeared.

He was active in replying to comments about his interview with the BBC but he doesn't appear to have an active online presence.

Since his plans for a church, no other proposals from other Satanist priests appear to have been touted.

Did you know what happened to the satanic church plans? Get in touch: michael.taylor@reachplc.com, tweet @JournoMikeT or call 01935 709742.

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