First rule of Exorcism: Don't look for the devil under every rock. Possession is extremely rare. Most spiritual problems are Obsession (mental torment) or Oppression (external attacks), not full Possession.
What is an Exorcism?
It is a public prayer of the Church, using the authority of Jesus Christ, to expel demons from a person or object.
- Minor Exorcism: Used at Baptism (reverently).
- Major Exorcism: Used only for possessed persons by a priest mandated by the Bishop.
The Signs
According to the Roman Ritual, signs of possession include:
- Speaking in languages unknown to the person (e.g., Latin/Aramaic).
- Superhuman strength.
- Knowledge of hidden things (reading the priest's sins).
- Aversion to holy objects (recoiling from Holy Water).
The Process
Before an exorcism is approved, the person must see a psychiatrist and a medical doctor. We must rule out Schizophrenia, Tourette's, or Epilepsy first. Faith and Science work together.
The exorcist doesn't "fight" the demon with his own power. He commands it to leave "In the name of Jesus Christ." It is boring, repetitive prayer, not a movie scene.
Focus on Christ, not the darkness. He has already won. Read about the Victory of the Cross on the MyPrayerTower app.