Real deal Jesus Christ believing modern exorcist priest Father Gary Thomas.

Diocese of San José, California.

Q: "Nationally, how many exorcisms are performed each year?"

A: "No idea. I can tell you that in Italy there are about 500,000 [??!!] exorcisms."


Again, this snippet is from CWR, February 2011 edition. Interviewer is Brian O'Neal.


Question:

"First of all, what is an exorcist?

"What does he do?"

Father Thomas' response:

"An exorcist is a Catholic priest or a bishop who is involved in using the name of Christ to break a relationship between a demon and a human being."

Question:

"Have you ever engaged a demon in conversation in exorcism?"

Father's response:

"Not other than, What's your name? and, In the name of Jesus, get out! "

Question:

"Have you ever encountered Satan himself?

Father's answer:

"Once or twice, or at least what appeared to be Satan, because he identified himself as such..."

Question:

"In your battles against demons and Satan, what is your greatest weapon?"

Answer:

"It would be Christ, the invocation of Christ.

"That would be my greatest weapon..."

Miscellaneous: Father's comments in one answer:

"... As an exorcist, I see the response of demons to sacramentals such as the crucifix or holy water or even the presence of a priest.

"The Eucharist will send possessed persons right over the edge.

"That's the amazing thing.

"I tell the people in my parish, if demons believe in the Real Presence, shouldn't we?

"I'm telling you, I've brought the Blessed Sacrament [to exorcisms], and the people want to go jumping out windows.

"It's not them, it's the demons...''

Good points, all, Padre! :)