- Feb 5, 2002
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Catholics are rediscovering the nature of spiritual warfare, not only in formal exorcisms but also in the prayers of deliverance recited by laity.
For decades, we tried canceling the devil, refraining from talking much about him, or bothering much with him at all. Catholics thought they could get by without exorcisms, relegating them to the superstitious past. Demonic attacks seemed to belong in Hollywood films, not in the average parish.
However, that decision backfired, with the need for exorcisms now spiking worldwide. Catholics are rediscovering the nature of spiritual warfare, not only in formal exorcisms but also in the prayers of deliverance recited by laity.
The need for a formal, major exorcism is rare. Everyone, however, needs deliverance and protection from the enemy’s influence. During our observance of St. Michael’s Lent, the 40 days leading up to Michaelmas Day on Sept. 29, Exodus, where I work, offered a series of talks called Spiritual Warfare 101. Every day, we’re immersed in a spiritual battle, mostly unaware of the enemy’s tactics to tempt us. He aims to push all of our buttons — making suggestions, building on our tendencies, and straining relationships. We can and should push back, renouncing any evil influences we have allowed into our lives and commanding evil spirits to depart from us.
Continued below.
www.catholicworldreport.com
For decades, we tried canceling the devil, refraining from talking much about him, or bothering much with him at all. Catholics thought they could get by without exorcisms, relegating them to the superstitious past. Demonic attacks seemed to belong in Hollywood films, not in the average parish.
However, that decision backfired, with the need for exorcisms now spiking worldwide. Catholics are rediscovering the nature of spiritual warfare, not only in formal exorcisms but also in the prayers of deliverance recited by laity.
The need for a formal, major exorcism is rare. Everyone, however, needs deliverance and protection from the enemy’s influence. During our observance of St. Michael’s Lent, the 40 days leading up to Michaelmas Day on Sept. 29, Exodus, where I work, offered a series of talks called Spiritual Warfare 101. Every day, we’re immersed in a spiritual battle, mostly unaware of the enemy’s tactics to tempt us. He aims to push all of our buttons — making suggestions, building on our tendencies, and straining relationships. We can and should push back, renouncing any evil influences we have allowed into our lives and commanding evil spirits to depart from us.
Continued below.
The battle Is real: A guide for spiritual warfare
www.catholicworldreport.com
