On a significant day for the Catholic community in Wichita, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception saw an unusually large turnout as it hosted a Holy Hour of Reparation. These special liturgies, led by the Very Rev. David Lies, vicar general and exorcist of the Diocese of Wichita, were held in response to a "Black Mass" that took place on the grounds of the Kansas State Capitol.

The Rev. Lies led this spiritual gathering as Bishop Carl Kemme was attending his mother's funeral in Illinois. Father Lies highlighted the purpose of the event: "It is love for that real presence of Jesus that brings us here today." He further addressed the act of sacrilege against the beliefs of the Catholic community, expressing sorrow and urging for prayers: "It is this moment we pray for those individuals who, out of error, who out of, perhaps, sadly, hatred, commit desecrations and blasphemy and sacrilege against the bodily presence of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Father Lies encouraged faithful followers to adopt a forgiving stance, reflecting the example of Christ, as he said: "We should also do something just as courageous and pray for the persecutors of Jesus Christ." This included calling for prayers directed at Michael Stewart, associated with the Satanic Grotto of Leavenworth, who was reportedly central to the events at the Capitol.

Reports from the media state that Michael Stewart was arrested during the "Black Mass" after causing a disturbance in the Capitol rotunda. Approximately 30 people attended the controversial event, while the number of counter demonstrators reached into the hundreds.

Father Lies emphasized the power of conversion and prayed, "We pray that they will turn away from the deception of Satan. We pray that they will not face the eternal horror of eternal separation from God in Hell."

The liturgies aimed to demonstrate the community's commitment to their faith and their hope for redemption for all involved. Moving forward, the Catholic Diocese of Wichita continues to focus on reconciliation and collective prayer.