Rome, Italy, Jul 30, 2020 / 04:30 am
Exorcism is not an obscure practice shrouded in darkness, but a ministry filled with light, peace, and joy, according to a new guide for Catholic exorcists.
"When implemented in situations of real diabolical possession and according to the norms established by the Church -- inspired by genuine faith and necessary prudence -- [exorcism] manifests its salvific, positive character, characterized by a living experience of purity, light and peace," Fr. Francesco Bamonte wrote in the book's introduction.
"The 'dominant note,' we could say, is made up of joy, the fruit of the Holy Spirit, promised by Jesus to those who welcome his Word with confidence," he continued.
Bamonte is the president of the International Association of Exorcists (AIE), which prepared the new book with the approval of the Congregation for Clergy and with contributions from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and the Congregation for Divine Worship.