OFFICE OF SPIRITUAL AFFAIRS
Exorcism
Jesus Christ gave His apostles "authority to cast out demons" (Mark 3) By His authority the Church exercises the power and office of exorcizing, and the Church's exercise of this power and this office is called exorcism.
There are two forms of exorcism:
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The simple form, for example, is part of Baptism and of the Christian Initiation of Adults.
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The major (or solemn) form is performed only by a validly ordained priest with the bishop's express permission.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of an exorcism?
Like all sacramentals, an exorcism is directed towards the sanctification of humanity (and all creation) and the praise of God by disposing us favourably and purposively to cooperate with God through His grace. It is by the loving will of God and to the glory of His holy name that the Church casts out demons, drives out evil spirits, and heals those who suffer from demonic possession.
2. Is Exorcism a Sacrament?
No, it is not a Sacrament; rather, it is a sacramental rite of the Church.
3. Who can perform exorcisms?
Only a validly ordained priest under the bishop's "special and express permission" can perform exorcisms legitimately.
4. Whom should I speak to for discerning the needs for an exorcism?
Your local parish priest is your immediate contact person for pastoral assistance.
Resources
To learn more about exorcism, these resources may help::
Bishop Robert Barron: "Why exorcism films still fascinate us?"
http://www.wordonfire.org/resources/video/why-exorcism-films-still-fascinate-us/170/
Exorcism Protocol
1. Those seeking the assistance of an exorcist for themselves or another should first contact their local parish and request assistance. The parish priest should meet with the individual to discern his or her needs. The parish priest may seek guidance in this area from the Office of Spiritual Affairs.
2. If further assistance is necessary, the petitioner is to write to the Director of Spiritual Affairs outlining the matter and any previous actions taken as well as any relevant recommendations. This letter should also contain the full name, phone number, and address of the individual seeking help. The person requesting the assistance of the exorcist will have included a complete medical exam/physical by their doctor and a psychological evaluation/assessment prior to the beginning of the investigation.
3. Once the case has been received by the Office of Spiritual Affairs a file will be opened.
4. A written request for assistance will be made to a relevant expert so that a psycho-social-spiritual assessment will be completed.
5. Once the assessment has been completed the case file is referred to the Director for discernment before proceeding.
6. The Director in consultation with the exorcist will decide on one of three actions:
i) the case should be referred to the exorcist for his discernment and recommendations;
ii) the case requires additional medical and/or psychological supporting documentation before proceeding further;
iii) the case does not require action and the individual is referred back to the parish for ongoing pastoral care.
7. Once the recommendation of the exorcist has been obtained the Director in consultation with the exorcist will provide guidance to the parish priest or petitioner who made the initial contact with the Office of Spiritual Affairs.