Good to Know: What does the Church say about exorcisms?

Editor's note: This is the beginning of a new series that will answer questions about a subject relevant to the Catholic church, local or global. This week's topic: Exorcisms

By The Catholic Week
Because the film "The Exorcist: Believer" is scheduled to premiere on Oct. 6, many misconceptions about exorcisms and the Catholic Church may receive attention in secular media outlets.  

Q: What does the Catholic Church teach about exorcisms?
A: An exorcism is a prayer prescribed by the Church for liberation from the power of the Evil One or liberation from his domain. The Catechism of the Catholic Church distinguishes between simple exorcisms and solemn exorcisms.  Jesus himself performed exorcisms in his sacred ministry. 

Q: What is a simple exorcism? 
A: A simple or a minor exorcism is meant to assist the faithful against the power of the enemy. An example of this would be an exorcism that occurs when anyone is baptized or a priest might lead a person through a prayer of deliverance, such, “In the name of Jesus, I renounce the lie that God is angry with me.” 

Q: What is a solemn exorcism? 
A: A solemn or major exorcism is a liturgical rite performed by a priest, appointed by the bishop, to liberate a person from demonic possession.  This priest/exorcist must follow certain rules, be appropriately trained, and have prudence and wisdom. 

Q: How can a solemn exorcism happen? 
A: When a priest is approached about a possible exorcism several steps occur. First, a mental health expert and physician have to state that the problems this person are experiencing are not caused by psychological or physiological reasons. The priest would then look for various signs of demonic possession (such as speaking in a language that the person does not know). He presents this case to the bishop, who then would make the determination to proceed. The person is then directed to the priest/exorcist would then perform the liturgical rite and attached prayers.  

Q: How often does a solemn exorcism happen?
A: Very rarely. Most of the time the person claiming to be possessed is in need of appropriate mental health interventions.  Exorcisms and even prayer itself do not replace the need for mental health professionals, physicians and medications. 

Q: How can I avoid all this stuff because it scares me?
A: A lot of people get fascinated with exorcisms because of the movies, which often presents a false narrative of the actual practice. If you are baptized, you are a beloved child of God in Jesus Christ. Simply staying close to Jesus Christ through the Eucharist, the Sacrament of Confession, and through prayer will keep you far away from all these things. Of important note, we know from the Bible that Mary crushed the Serpent’s head, so asking for your heavenly Mother’s help is a good place to go.