Atlanta Catholics process in protest against 'black mass

Traffic halted on Beaver Ruin Road in Atlanta on October 25 as Catholics from various parishes walked in a procession, following the Blessed Sacrament to express their devotion. The event, named "Pilgrims of Hope," connected St. Patrick Church, Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Church, and Our Lady of Americas Mission in a demonstration against an attack on their sacred beliefs.

Organizers estimated that thousands participated in the march. Ighocha Macokor, a member of the Knights of Columbus at St. Patrick Church, joined for the first time to "stand against evil" and display faith.

Meanwhile, lawyers for the Archdiocese of Atlanta received confirmation from organizers of a planned "black mass" that it was intended as entertainment and did not involve a consecrated host. This prompted the archdiocese to call for a special day of prayer and support for belief in the Eucharist.

Pedro Ulloa participated with his family, expressing that their show of faith allowed others to "see the good things about Jesus Christ." Nancy Frost spoke against the black mass event, emphasizing community pride and involvement.

The procession began at St. Patrick Church with diverse participants setting out for Holy Vietnamese Martyrs Church under police escort. Traditional prayers were recited along the route, with some carrying a heavy wooden altar bearing a monstrance surrounded by flowers and candles.

Marissa Anguiano from Our Lady of Americas Mission remarked on unity among believers facing intentional desecration of the Eucharist. Archbishop Gregory J. Hartmayer updated the Catholic community on efforts regarding this issue, stressing actions should reflect "love stronger than hate or violence."

Lawyers from Smith Gambrell Russell prepared to take legal action if necessary. A past incident in Oklahoma saw a similar situation resolved when a stolen host was returned after legal proceedings.

The Satanic Temple of Atlanta assured they had no consecrated host and labeled their event as entertainment while acknowledging Catholics' seriousness about threats to their beliefs.

Archbishop Hartmayer urged ongoing prayer for those who mock religious beliefs and emphasized welcoming those seeking conversion through understanding Christ's love.

Andrew Nelson reported this story for The Georgia Bulletin.