The Rite of Exorcism
Universal Life Church Ministers are authorized to perform sacerdotal ceremonies including the rite of Exorcism. However, in this particular practice of a rite or ritual there are additional aspects of exposure to financial, emotional, civil, and possibly even criminal liability not common to any other religious rite or ritual. Caution, prayers, and great prior consideration are advised before planning and exercising this practice or its related rituals.
Each individual is cautioned that the practice of these particular rites carries more emotional weight than weddings or funerals. Exorcisms involve the mind and the body, and can elicit physical manifestations of emotional turmoil as well as mental conditions that may require the assistance of medical professionals immediately. These rituals may elicit psychosis and life-threatening situations for some individuals, which is a danger that ministers must keep in mind always and be prepared to act upon instantly. Placing the blame for such situations upon evil forces may not be a successful defense in a court of law.
When people believe in ghosts, spirits, evil powers, and such forces as may inhabit the dark recesses of the mind, not only do those beliefs carry certain “forces,” but they have a sequence about them. Sequence in this understanding means that when one belief is accepted, it requires the acceptance of other beliefs. One belief requires another, and the process goes on and on. It can lead to severe emotional involvement and psychiatric episodes that can be life-threatening.
This religious rite is not to be taken lightly or engaged in by inexperienced ministers
For in such rites, and the belief in such rites, there is invested great emotional attachment by some individuals. Fear is a powerful emotion and not in the control of reason in some situations which accompany the exorcism ritual.
Not only can an individual be harmed by the belief in such forces, engaging in religious rites designed and intended to influence or defy such evil forces can create additional harm. This is an instance where the remedy can be of equal or greater harm than the evil itself. This ULC Training section is intended for education and training, but not to encourage or express a belief in such evil forces or rites to influence or destroy such forces. As in every instance of beliefs and believing, the mind is as mysterious as any evil power may be believed to be.
Please evaluate the situation carefully and refer individuals to experienced professionals in this aspect of believing, religious rites, and rituals. This is not an area for play or experimentation. To do no harm must be the minister’s primary personal directive. Harm may come from the practice of exorcism, perpetuating individuals’ belief in evil powers, or uniting with a believer to challenge such powers. I advise every minister to read and learn about these rituals and the practice of exorcism rituals, not to perform them.
Br. Martin
Head, Sacerdotal Order of Universal Life
Monastic Order
