Exorcists say more people are dabbling with dark-side practices (Image: imageBROKER/LUNAMARINA via Getty Images)
Senior Catholic exorcists have urged Pope Leo XIV to recruit additional demon-battling priests amid allegations of a worldwide increase in occult and Satanic practices.
Officials from the International Association of Exorcists (AIE) convened with the Pontiff earlier this month to present a report cautioning about escalating incidents connected to occultism and Satanism. The AIE advocates for every Catholic diocese globally to maintain at least one qualified exorcist prepared to recognize and handle complicated cases, reports the Daily Star.
They also seek enhanced training, more explicit guidance for newly appointed bishops, and clear standards for determining when a case warrants intensive spiritual intervention, according to reports from EWTN Vatican and InfoVaticana.
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Exorcists maintain that more individuals are experimenting with sinister practices and seeking guidance in inappropriate venues – occasionally resulting in profound anguish.
Father Francesco Bamonte, the AIE’s vice-president, is quoted as cautioning that disregarding the pattern leaves believers without adequate assistance and drives some toward “inappropriate solutions”.
During the papal meeting, the exorcists submitted a publication titled ‘Guidelines for the Ministry of Exorcism’ alongside an image of Saint Michael the Archangel – the venerated spiritual warrior – from the renowned Monte Sant’Angelo sanctuary.
Reports indicate the Pope expressed appreciation for their efforts and presented rosaries in exchange, remembering the late Father Gabriele Amorth, the prominent exorcist who helped establish the AIE.
Critics argue that numerous alleged possession incidents are better addressed by physicians and mental health professionals, cautioning that references to a “spiritual war” can alarm vulnerable individuals.
Exorcists maintain that their procedures incorporate medical screening, and that training is precisely what’s required to safeguard the public.
Official statistics on the number of exorcisms conducted by the Catholic Church are unavailable.
Nevertheless, requests for exorcisms have been increasing, and last year over 300 exorcists convened for the 15th International Conference of Exorcists, demonstrating a significant, coordinated worldwide ministry.