Pope Leo XIV has expressed deep gratitude and encouragement to priests who serve as exorcists, reminding them of the importance and delicacy of their ministry. Speaking to participants at the International Association of Exorcists (AIE), gathered near Rome from September 15–20, the Holy Father highlighted that their work stands as both a sign of the Church’s love and a concrete act of spiritual mercy.
A Ministry of Liberation and Consolation
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo XIV told the priests that the work of the exorcist is “delicate” but also “most necessary.” He urged them to carry out their mission “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.”
This call reflects the Church’s teaching that exorcism is not simply about dramatic rites but about pastoral care—supporting those who are suffering, often in silence and fear, and leading them toward Christ’s healing power.
Witness of the Church’s Love
The Pope’s words were echoed by Father Karel Orlita, president of the AIE and a canon lawyer from the Diocese of Brno. He emphasized that exorcism must be seen as “a concrete sign of the Church’s love for brothers and sisters who suffer” (Vatican News). The gathering brought together around 300 priests and lay assistants from across the globe, united by their mission to confront evil and serve the afflicted.
Sharing in Christ’s Suffering
The importance of this ministry was also highlighted in the Holy Mass celebrated during the conference. Cardinal Arthur Roche, Prefect of the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, reflected on how those tormented by the devil mysteriously share in the suffering of Christ. Their pain, he noted, must be met with compassion, prayer, and the Church’s accompaniment, reminding all present of the redemptive power of Christ’s victory over evil.
A Call to Support and Pray
Pope Leo XIV’s message comes at a time when belief in the spiritual reality of evil is often dismissed or minimized. Yet the Church continues to affirm the need for this ministry as a vital expression of her mission. His encouragement to exorcists underscores the Church’s conviction that the battle against evil is real, but so too is the assurance of Christ’s triumph.
For the faithful, the Pope’s words invite renewed prayer for priests entrusted with this demanding work, and deeper trust in Christ who alone has authority over every darkness.
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