Exorcism

greenspun.com : LUSENET : Catholic : One Thread

Dear friends in Christ,

I recently finished reading "An Exorcist Tells His Story" by Father Gabriele Amorth (1999, Ignatius Press, San Francisco). This is a translation (by Nicoletta V. MacKenzie) of the Italian original, "Un escorista raconta" (1994).

I have been thoroughly interested in the rite of exorcism (and other spectacular aspects of Roman Catholic mysticism, such as Stigmata and Eucharistic miracles) since I was very young and have done considerable research on the subject, in addition to the aforementioned text.

In his book, Father Amorth cites the relative scarcity of exorcists (when compared to the need of them) in much of Europe and United States, owing to the reluctance of many bishops to appoint priests to the ministry of exorcist. I am just curious to see if anyone in this forum has had personal experiences related to demoniac possession or exorcism.

I am particularly interested in responses from Roman Catholics involving formal, canonical use of the rite of exorcism in the Roman Ritual. Though I recognize, as Father Amorth also notes in his book, the contribution to this area of theology that may be made by charismatics or Protestants, I ask that responses to this post be kept within the aforementioned scope.

Also, I am acutely aware of the skepticism that many might have with regard to this practice. You are, of course, entitled to your opinions (though I request that they might not be included in this thread). However, it should be noticed that for Catholics the existence of the devil and the phenomena of demoniac possession are clearly defined doctrines of the Church, and that dissent from these teachings is heresy.

God bless, MVB

-- MVB (mvbtwin@yahoo.com), March 11, 2005

Answers

I have been thoroughly interested in the rite of exorcism (and other spectacular aspects of Roman Catholic mysticism, such as Stigmata and Eucharistic miracles) since I was very young and have done considerable research on the subject, in addition to the aforementioned text.

You are treading on thin ice, MVB. Exorcism is not something that a layman like you ought to be fascinated with or spend a lot of time on. Dabbling in the demonic will prove to be dangerous to your body and soul.

It would be much better to be "thoroughly interested" in things that would make you a better person and would prepare you to be with God for all eternity.

It would be much better to be "thoroughly interested" in things that are not sensationalistic. Reading about or going to see Eucharistic miracles can be beautiful, but the Eucharist itself (i.e., going to daily Mass) is far more beautiful and important. Reading about mysticism may be fascinating, but it is of much less importance than your simply having a strong, daily prayer life (even if it is very "dry" and lacks any of the excitement mysticism).

-- (Cant@Help.Wondering), March 11, 2005.


Moderation questions? read the FAQ