EXORCISM

EXORCISM. We do not know as much as we would like about the content and expression of the daily exorcisms that accompanied instruction in the early catechumenate. The texts we have are the same or similar to those that begin the reception into the catechumenate; and these are known to be markedly different in scope and specificity from the daily exorcisms that were performed by the catechists. It would be safe to say that the exorcisms that we now have were the summary statements made by the clergy over the newly enlisted Christian, claiming that person for the Church and removing him from the power of evil. Similarly, the daily exorcisms most probably dealt with very specific sins (q.v.), which were to be overcome before Baptism (q.v.) could take place. It is pointless to propose for this daily practice any of the curious aspects of exorcism currently popular in the American media, when what was most likely at stake was good, sound spiritual direction against sin over a prolonged period of time. This spiritual approach gives us a principle related to the ethics of the way (q.v.) of the Lord, or two ways, providing practical advice for the daily spiritual life of the catechumen, and at the same time demanding accountability from him.

When the adult catechumenate is restored, the first three exorcism prayers of the baptismal service should be included at the beginning of catechesis (q.v.), or perhaps interspersed throughout it; and they should be explained as claiming that person for the Kingdom of God and the Church, and removing him or her from the power of evil. Throughout the catechetical period, the teaching of the Two Ways may serve as a guide to deal with specific sins, which are to be overcome before reception into the Church can take place. This is to provide continuing practical advice for the daily spiritual life of the catechumen. The process logically and naturally leads to the individual’s later participation in the sacrament of Confession (qq.v.). Basically, catechesis, exorcism, and confession require good, sound spiritual direction against sin, and accountability to God (q.v.).