Discernment a necessary precaution for exorcism

Apr 26, 2024

PETALING JAYA: The seminar on Deliverance and Exorcism held at the Church of St Ignatius, April 10 to 14, opened with a presentation titled Study on Demonology, delivered by Fr Jose Francisco C. Syquia (chief exorcist) and Fr Winston F. Cabading (exorcist) from the Archdiocese of Manila, setting the tone for the event.

A total of 250 participants comprising clergy and laity from the various parishes within the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, Kuching and Penang attended the seminar organised by CHARIS KL Service of Communion (CKLSC). The attendance of the laity, endorsed by their respective parish priests, underscored the seriousness of the seminar and the expected outcomes.

Fr Jose started by emphasising the undeniable reality of Satan’s existence, countering the prevailing notion that dismisses it as a mere myth. He echoed the sentiments of the Holy Father, who cautioned against the misconception that the devil is merely an abstract concept, stating, “But in this generation, like so many others, people have been led to believe that the devil is a myth, a figure, an idea, the idea of evil. But the devil exists and we must fight against him.” Despite attempts to attribute evil solely to human weaknesses and failures, Fr Jose stressed that the reality is far more profound.

According to Fr Jose, the devil’s primary adversary is God, and humanity merely finds itself caught in the crossfire. He clarified the distinction between the terms “devil” and “demon,” with the former referring specifically to Satan or Lucifer, the leader of the rebellious angels, and the latter encompassing his followers, the fallen angels. Fr Jose reiterated the teachings of the Church on this matter, affirming the existence and significance of spiritual warfare.

Participants discovered various forms of Spiritual Warfare prayers during the seminar. These include Prayers of Liberation, which can be recited by the laity, religious, priests, and exorcists. Minor Exorcism prayers are reserved for priests and exorcists, while Major or Solemn Exorcism is conducted solely by an ordained priest or higher prelate, with the explicit permission of the local bishop, as stipulated by Canon law.

Archbishop Julian Leow, in his brief address to the participants on the first day of the seminar, emphasised the importance of discernment before engaging in exorcism. Not everyone who claims or is perceived to be in need of exorcism requires such intervention. Frs Jose and Winston corroborated this, highlighting the multiple layers and processes involved in the Ministry of Deliverance. Modelled after the Ministry from the Archdiocese of Manila, it involves the collaboration of psychiatrists, doctors, counsellors, and coordinators - whether from the laity or the clergy - in addition to the chief exorcist. These diverse expertise levels ensure thorough discernment before a case is referred to an exorcist.

Fr Winston dedicated his sessions to explaining the intricate processes involved in exorcism. He utilised several recordings of actual exorcisms to illustrate what participants could expect during such rituals.

Additionally, the significance of sacramentals was explored. Commonly used sacramentals in exorcisms, such as holy water, salt, crucifixes, incense, and bells, were discussed. These elements are chosen for their ability to engage the human senses, enhancing the spiritual experience.

Both presenters dedicated the majority of the third day of the seminar, guiding participants on how to establish an Office of Exorcism modelled after the one in the Archdiocese of Manila.

The seminar concluded with a reminder that we are not alone in the spiritual battle. The importance of understanding angels was emphasised. Angels exist in the supernatural realm while we reside in the natural world. Each person is assigned an angel at birth, and it is up to us to cultivate and nurture this relationship. Angels serve to guide us closer to Our Father, but their assistance requires our consent. Unfortunately, many modern-day Catholics have overlooked or side-lined this spiritual advantage. Those who cultivate familiarity with their angels can truly appreciate the power, goodness, and gentle generosity of these heavenly beings.

Fr Clement Lim, ecclesiastical assistant for CKLSC, said that the seminar marks only the beginning of laying the groundwork for establishing a similar Ministry within the archdiocese (if that decision is made). Many more discussions and procedures must be finalised before implementation. Participants were urged to persevere in prayer.

Feedback from the participants
A group of working adults from the Chapel of Kristus Aman found the seminar to be both unique and enlightening. Ha-ving encountered manifestations within their prayer group, they enrolled in the seminar in search of answers. Some of their uncertainties were addressed during the sessions. For many, it served as a wake-up call, prompting them to acknowledge the presence and reality of the Devil. When asked if they would be willing to participate in a Ministry of Deliverance, they realised the significant commitment involved and the importance of personal preparation in such a role.

A senior participant expressed the view that the seminar seemed more tailored for the clergy and informative only for the laity. They had anticipated a more biblically-based approach to guide participants in matters of deliverance.

The Ministry of Deliverance and Exorcism from the Kuching Archdiocese, led by Friar Don Don Romero Remerez (appointed exorcist by the local bishop), participated in the seminar. For this ministry, the teachings and guidance provided affirmed their practices. One member even referred to the presenters, Frs Jose and Winston, as “sifu” (master, a term of respect in Chinese), impressed by the depth of their insights.

“When asked for advice on starting a similar ministry, the response was clear, ‘Work closely with the Church and clergy.’ They also noted that working in this ministry has been a path to spiritual growth for them individually.