In a recent statement, the organisation, which was founded in 1994, emphasises the need for "discernment, training and acting under a church mandate" in order to avoid harm. The association expressly warns against sensationalism and improvised methods that are not authorised by the Church. An exorcism must always be carried out in the name and on behalf of the Church. Furthermore, the exorcist acts as a "servant of Christ, who alone has power over all demons".
According to Catholic doctrine, people can be possessed by the devil and demons and be freed from them by means of prescribed rituals by clergy who have been specially trained as exorcists and appointed by the church.
Before an exorcism, the "consultation of psychiatrists" is prescribed, among other things.
Catholic exorcists differentiate between possession, religious hysteria and various mental illnesses.
Exorcists have more to do
According to the association, which has around 900 members worldwide, the number of people visiting exorcists has risen in recent years.
More and more people believe they are victims of supernatural demonic influences such as possession or obsession.
The AIE condemns superstition and practices such as the "diagnosis" of demonic influences based on photos or items of clothing, as well as the misuse of sacred objects such as water or oil. Such methods are "not only theologically wrong, but also promote a magical way of thinking".
Exorcism is not an act of horror, as often portrayed in films, but of faith and joy, which is why the exclusive focus on the devil practised by some exorcists is wrong, it continues.
Exorcists should be guided by the example of the Good Samaritan and treat the suffering with hope and humility.