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(NewsNation) — Christian groups are condemning a Kansas-based satanic group’s plans to hold a Black Mass at the statehouse.

After outrage, Gov. Laura Kelly said the March 28 event would be held outside the capitol building, according to the Topeka Capital-Journal. 

Kelly denounced the event but said she is obligated to protect freedom of expression.

“There are more constructive ways to protest and express disagreements without insulting or denigrating sacred religious symbols,” Kelly said in a statement. “However, as governor, I also have a duty to protect protesters’ constitutional rights to freedom of speech and expression, regardless of how offensive or distasteful I might find the content to be.”

Satanic Grotto to perform parody of Catholic Mass

Satanic Grotto describes itself as an organization for an “independent and non-denominational satanic church.” A Black Mass is an intentionally blasphemous parody of a Catholic Mass.

“The overall theme in it is expressing the hurt and anger and some of the feelings that come from being oppressed by a religion you didn’t ask for and didn’t consent to,” Michael Stewart, president of Satanic Grotto, told the Topeka Capital-Journal.

In a statement, the Archdiocese of Kansas in Kansas City said, “We are deeply disappointed that such blasphemous acts that are intended to mock Catholic worship, the beliefs of all Christians, and those who believe in the one true God, are being allowed on the Kansas Statehouse grounds.” The archdiocese says it’s exploring legal options.