Pope Leo XIV by Marco Iacobucci Epp / Shutterstock.com
Pope Leo XIV sent a message of encouragement to about 300 exorcist priests and exorcist assistants from around the world gathered in Italy this month for a conference, according to a Sept. 23 Vatican News report.
In the message to those attending the International Association of Exorcists (IAE) conference, Pope Leo said their ministry is both “delicate” and “most necessary,” according to the report.
The Pontiff added that the exorcist priests must live their calling “both as a ministry of liberation and of consolation, accompanying the faithful truly possessed by the evil one with prayer and the invocation of Christ’s effective presence, so that (…) the Lord may grant victory over Satan.”
Father Gabriele Amorth and Fr. René Chenesseau founded the association in 1994, according to the IAE website. The Vatican formally recognized the association, which is headquartered in Rome, in 2014, and the Congregation for Clergy approved the groups’ statutes, according to the Catholic Sun.
The association has about 900 members, according to a Jan. 15 report in Premier Christian News. In January, IAE released a statement of 10 clarifications about exorcism to promote safety and clarity. One point was that exorcists must focus on the work of Christ rather than give “undue attention” to the devil, according to the report. The report adds that IAE also stated exorcists must regard “their work with humility and peace, avoiding any form of fear or sensationalism,” and that the ministry must be accomplished in love and compassion caring for those suffering.
“Exorcism is a profound experience of encountering God’s grace and power,” the IAE said in the statement, according to Premier Christian News. “Contrary to its often frightening portrayal in popular media, the true ministry of exorcism is one of deep joy and liberation. The exorcist is privileged to witness the power of Christ’s resurrection as He dispels the darkness and brings healing to those suffering from the effects of evil.”
