What is an exorcist priest?
An exorcist priest is an ordained minister who is responsible for performing exorcisms in a diocese.
In this Hozana article, we’ll learn more about the mission of an exorcist priest—how they are appointed and trained, what happens during a session with an exorcist priest, why they are increasingly sought after, and more. After reading this, we invite you to explore other key questions about priests, the sacrament of Holy Orders, and the sacraments.
Are all priests exorcists?
Only bishops and priests appointed by them may exercise the ministry of exorcism.
Warning: It is important to verify with your diocese that the exorcist priest has been authorized by the bishop. In fact, recent events have shown that several so-called exorcist priests have practiced this ministry while demanding money, even though it is a free service. Furthermore, by contacting your diocese, you remain within the fold of the Roman Catholic Church; there are indeed priests who call themselves exorcists but who come from other churches (for example, priests of the Old Catholic Church).
Why consult an exorcist priest?
People who seek out an exorcist priest are tormented: they may feel under the devil’s control or believe they are victims of evil spells. Sometimes they have opened the door to the Devil through occultism, spiritualism, black magic, etc., or by consulting psychics, magicians, shamans, healers, marabouts, fire walkers, magnetizers, etc. In other cases, they may be suffering from mental health issues or have sustained significant trauma.
Do you have to be Catholic to see an exorcist priest?
No, the exorcism service is open to anyone who seeks Christ’s help.
How is an exorcist priest appointed?
An exorcist priest is appointed by the bishop. The Code of Canon Law establishes certain criteria for discernment, such as:
“The local ordinary is to give this permission only to a presbyter who has piety, knowledge, prudence, and integrity of life.” (Canon 1172, § 2)
Good to know: It is rare for exorcism to be a priest’s sole responsibility. Generally, an exorcist priest—whether diocesan or religious—has other duties (parish priest, assistant pastor, etc.), except in very large dioceses, where the exorcist priest is sometimes dedicated solely to this service.
How is an exorcist priest trained?
An exorcist priest generally begins his training using the Ritual given to him by the bishop (Of Exorcisms and Certain Supplications) and by learning from other exorcist priests. Most exorcist priests also educate themselves by reading extensively (for example, on occultism, spiritualism, etc.).
In addition, exorcist priests attend training sessions. For example, in France, there is the National Session of Exorcists, held every two years. It is organized by the National Office of Exorcists of the Conference of Bishops of France (CEF).
Furthermore, the International Association of Exorcists organizes a meeting in Rome for exorcist priests every two years. These training sessions allow exorcist priests to update their knowledge and exchange ideas.
What is an appointment with an exorcist priest like?
A meeting with an exorcist priest takes place in a spirit of kindness. It begins with a time of welcome and listening. During the first appointment, the exorcist priest may or may not be accompanied by others. Sometimes, the exorcist priest does not participate in the first appointment but only in the second or third (depending on the diocese).
The exorcism ministry includes an exorcist priest, as well as a team (which may include a doctor, a psychologist, a deacon, laypeople, etc.).
Generally, as a first step, the exorcism ministry listens attentively and respectfully to the person to understand what has led them to seek help.
Next, the exorcist priest and his team engage in discernment to:
- Identify and/or rule out any mental or physical illness
- Identify any potential points of entry (Satanism, occultism, spiritualism, etc.)
Does an exorcist priest perform many actual exorcisms?
Most exorcist priests interviewed in France agree that major exorcisms account for between 1 and 5 percent of all the people they see. However, they are all unanimous in saying that they are being called upon more and more often.
Does the devil really exist?
The devil is a reality. He is a person (No. 2851 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church).
One must not toy with him, must not seek to invoke him, and must not fall into anything that might serve as a gateway to him.
Where can you find an exorcist priest?
The quickest way to find an exorcist priest—while ensuring that he is authorized to perform this ministry—is to contact your local diocese.
Why are exorcist priests increasingly in demand?
Possible reasons why exorcist priests are increasingly in demand include:
- A decline in religious practice
- The rise of atheism
- A crisis of meaning
- Satanism, occultism, and spiritualism
- The increase in consultations with fortune-tellers, healers, mediums, etc.
Let us pray for bishops and exorcist priests with Hozana
With Hozana, let us pray for all bishops and exorcist priests, as well as for those who are suffering. Let us pray that everyone may make good use of their freedom. Throughout the year, Hozana offers several prayer communities, such as , , these , and many others.
