Among today’s most popular videos and podcasts, for Catholic and secular audiences alike, are those featuring priests discussing demons.
Prominent exorcists, such as Father Chad Ripperger, Father Carlos Martins and Father Dan Reehil, have gained widespread attention through frequent media appearances, often garnering millions of views. Some exorcists have even launched their own public-facing deliverance apostolates, including Msgr. Stephen Rossetti’s St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal.
But while their online content generates plenty of attention, not everyone approves of these so-called “celebrity exorcists” speaking publicly about their ministry.
Earlier this summer, Cardinal Robert McElroy of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., made headlines when he dismissed Msgr. Rossetti from his post as archdiocesan exorcist. The move came after the popular exorcist had made public comments linking UFOs to demons. But Cardinal McElroy said his decision was based less on the monsignor’s opinions than on his high-profile persona.
“My major objection is that I think the traditional role of an exorcist is a very private one,” explained the D.C. cardinal on July 8. “It’s a sacred one.”
Cardinal McElroy’s view is shared by many. For instance, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops recommends on its website that dioceses keep the identity of
