Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, as we gather today, the readings from Galatians and the Gospel of Luke invite us to reflect on themes of faith, authority, and the ever-present battle against the forces of darkness in our world. This poignant call brings to mind a topic that may seem distant or sensational to some, yet increasingly resonates within our modern reality: the growing need for exorcists.
In Galatians, we learn about the justification through faith, a gift extended to both Jew and Gentile. Paul reminds us that it is faith that unites us as children of Abraham, allowing us to partake in the blessings meant for all of humanity. This message of hope and spiritual inheritance can empower us in our daily battles against sin and evil, including those manifestations that require the church's exorcistic intervention. Saint Paul clearly alludes to this battle when he says that our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against the infernal spirits (Ephesians 6:12) who rebelled against God and seek to ruin us.
In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus confronts the reality of spiritual warfare. When accused of casting out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons, He points out the absurdity of a divided
kingdom, in that if he is evil and on the side of evil as they were claiming, why would he be waging war on evil? Jesus demonstrates that His power drives out the forces of darkness, marking the coming of the Kingdom of God and not of Satan. Each of us is called to be part of that Kingdom which is built on goodness rather than evil, truth rather than falsehood and deception, virtue rather than vice, beauty rather than the ugliness of illusion, manipulation and exploitation, uniting our forces with Christ in the fight against evil.
As we reflect on the necessity of exorcists today, we must acknowledge the statistics that underscore this need. The Vatican estimates that there are about 200 trained exorcists in the world, a number that appears insufficient given the rising awareness of possession and demonic influence in contemporary society. It is reported that in certain regions, particularly in countries with rich spiritual traditions, the demand for exorcism has surged, leading to the appointment of more priests specifically trained for this ministry.
Indeed, exorcists undergo rigorous preparation. They often attend a special course, which explores the theology surrounding evil, psychological assessment, and the rites of exorcism. In line with Church teachings, they are equipped with official prayers from the Church, specifically from the Rituale Romanum. These prayers invoke the name and authority of Jesus Christ, relying on His power to expel the unclean spirits.
This is a sacred duty that requires not merely formal training but also a deep spiritual life and humility. I remember having lived in a fraternity of our friars, where one of them was an exorcist—the most joyful and prayerful and wise of the group. Exorcists prepare themselves through prayer, theological study, and personal integrity. They recognize the reality of the struggles against evil, just as St. Paul teaches us that faith empowers us against curses and sin. The exorcist’s role, therefore, is not just one of confrontation, but one of restoring hope and facilitating healing in the lives of afflicted individuals.
One intriguing figure mentioned in our readings is Beelzebul—often depicted as a powerful demon or even a false god. The name originates from "Baal-Zebub," a deity worshiped in ancient Philistine cities, representing the idea of evil and the stronghold of demonic influence. By invoking this name, today's scripture provides a stark reminder of how evil can take root in our lives and societies.
Historically, the practice of exorcism traces back to the Scriptures themselves, where Jesus's ministry was marked by encounters with demons, culminating in His powerful declarations of liberation. The Church has always recognized that spiritual affliction requires divine intervention and that exorcism is a profound expression of that faith.
Yet, dear friends, our focus should also extend beyond the mere acknowledgment of exorcisms as a rite. We must engage in our personal battle against sin and the manifestations of evil in our own hearts. Jesus urges us in the Gospel that when an unclean spirit leaves, it can return if the house is not filled with goodness. We must actively fill our lives with Christ's grace—through prayer, the sacraments, and acts of charity—so that when the enemy seeks to return, all he finds is a heart immersed in God’s love rather than vulnerability. We must strengthen the walls that keep him and his minions out of our lives.
As we combat the real darkness around us, may our faith be our armor, may our actions testify to our identity as children of Abraham, and may we never forget the power through which we engage in this battle—Jesus Christ, our Savior who in the saints and angels has given us a heavenly army which no force in the universe and beyond can overcome.
Through her intercession, may the good Lord Jesus impart to you and your loved ones, strength and protection: in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Go in peace. Thanks be to God.
Add comment
Comments