What is an exorcism?
Exorcism is discussed in number 1673 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church: “When the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ that a person or object be protected against the power of the Evil One and withdrawn from his dominion, it is called exorcism. Jesus performed exorcisms and from him the Church has received the power and office of exorcizing. (cf. Mk 1:25-26; 3:15; 6:7, 13; 16:17). In a simple form, exorcism is performed at the celebration of Baptism. the solemn exorcism, called 'a major exorcism,' can be performed only by a priest and with the permission of the bishop. the priest must proceed with prudence, strictly observing the rules established by the Church. Exorcism is directed at the expulsion of demons or to the liberation from demonic possession through the spiritual authority which Jesus entrusted to his Church. Illness, especially psychological illness, is a very different matter; treating this is the concern of medical science. Therefore, before an exorcism is performed, it is important to ascertain that one is dealing with the presence of the Evil One, and not an illness. (cf. CIC, can. 1172).”
In this Hozana article, we will explore further what exorcism is, why one should consult an exorcist priest, the various ways the devil gains entry, and more. After reading this, we invite you to explore other key questions about sacramentals, the sacraments, and the Christian life.
Why seek out an exorcist priest?
People who request an appointment with an exorcist priest are those who are suffering, who feel under the devil’s influence, or who believe they are victims of evil spells. They may indeed have been exposed, directly or indirectly, to gateways through which the Devil can act , such as witchcraft, black magic, or any other occult practice. Similarly, they may have grown up in unstable environments and suffered significant psychological trauma.
Every diocese has an exorcism ministry. This ministry may consist of several members (at least one priest, a deacon, laypeople, a doctor, a psychologist, or a psychiatrist), depending on the size of the diocese.
Warning:
It is important to verify that the exorcist priest is authorized by the bishop. In recent years, several individuals not authorized by the Roman Catholic Church have presented themselves as exorcist priests. If an exorcist priest asks you for money, it is a scam, since exorcism is a free service offered by every diocese.
What are the gateways to the devil?
There are many gateways to the devil and Satanism. The most common are:
- Witchcraft
- Black magic
- Occultism
- Spiritualism
- Consulting people who practice the occult (psychics, mediums, healers, etc.)
- Addictions: drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, etc.
- The practice of certain alternative medicines
- Alternative energy therapies
- Rape and incest
What are the works of the devil (Satan)?
When it comes to the devil’s actions, we must distinguish between ordinary and extraordinary methods. The first method the devil uses is to lead people into sin through temptation. As for the second method, it can take six different forms:
- Harassment: This primarily affects a person’s physical well-being and health. However, the devil can also cause disturbances related to material possessions, human relationships, work, and so on.
- Obsession: This primarily affects a person’s mind. It involves a series of temptations that are more intense and prolonged than ordinary temptations.
- Possession, in which the demon actually acts within the patient’s body, rather than merely making its presence felt from the outside, as in obsession.
- Infestations, which can affect various objects, houses, or animals.
- External sufferings—blows and abuse—which are found in the lives of saints or devout individuals.
- A state of dependence on the demon, caused by a pact with him.
What factors might explain possession and justify an exorcism?
There are various factors that may indicate a case of possession in a person, such as:
- The inability to enter a church
- A violent reaction to holy water
- A strong aversion to anything related to religion
- A superhuman strength greater than the person’s natural abilities
- Speaking or understanding an unknown language
- Revealing distant or hidden facts
Who can perform an exorcism?
Bishops, and priests appointed by them, are the only ones authorized to perform an exorcism. A priest who has not been appointed by the bishop (also known as the local Ordinary) to this office cannot perform an exorcism. If the bishop does not grant this authorization, priests may only offer a prayer of deliverance. Generally, a bishop appoints a single exorcist priest in his diocese.
Let us examine below what the Code of Canon Law states:
Can. 1172 - § 1. No one can perform exorcisms legitimately upon the possessed unless he has obtained special and express permission from the local ordinary.
§ 2. The local ordinary is to give this permission only to a presbyter who has piety, knowledge, prudence, and integrity of life.
What is the difference between a minor exorcism and a major exorcism?
The minor exorcism (or simple exorcism) is intended for those preparing to receive the sacrament of Baptism. If the person is a child, this rite is part of the Rite of Baptism for Children. The ritual includes a prayer of exorcism and deliverance, as well as a renunciation of evil and Satan.
In the case of an adult, the minor exorcism is referenced in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Validly ordained ministers (bishops, priests, and deacons) perform this minor exorcism as part of the celebration of the sacrament of Baptism.
As we have seen, the major exorcism is intended for people who feel they are under the devil’s influence or are victims of witchcraft. However, it is up to the exorcist priest and his team to exercise discernment before performing this type of exorcism. The major exorcism (also called the grand exorcism or solemn exorcism) is governed by a ritual (Of Exorcisms and Certain Supplications) that is not accessible to the general public. Each bishop possesses this ritual and entrusts it to a priest to whom he delegates this ministry of exorcism.
The major exorcism is a liturgical celebration, structured as follows:
- Opening rites: the sign of the cross, greeting, sprinkling of holy water
- A Liturgy of the Word: psalms, Gospel reading, laying on of hands, profession of faith
- Rites of exorcism: a prayer addressed to God to deliver the faithful from all evil
- Closing rites
Generally, an exorcist priest is never alone with the person in distress. Another priest may be present, along with a team of laypeople.
Let us pray for those who are suffering with Hozana
With Hozana, let us pray for all those who are suffering and those struggling with evil. Hozana offers several prayer communities, such as , , these , and many others.
