The Social Aspect of Exorcism

Abstract

The existence of Satan, who may even nowadays possess an object, a place or a person with God’s consent, is widely recognised within the Christian Church. Demonic tormenting of a person may manifest itself either by means of an ordinary action (temptation) or an extraordinary action (up to possession). In the presence of so varied, more and more sublime forms of temptation, both the ability to identify the presence of the Evil One in the world and the need not to disregard his power are crucial. The role of exposing the evil spirit and freeing persons dependent, at various levels, on the devil is closely connected to the ministry of priest-exorcists, for whom it is also a form of a social duty. From this perspective the real action of the evil spirit, the seriousness of the personal and social sins and the need for individual and community recognition may be observed more vividly.