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Spiritual Struggles in a Modern World

USASunday, April 26, 2026

A man named Father Szada spent months helping a young woman who believed she was haunted. Despite multiple exorcisms, the problems kept resurfacing. In a desperate moment, she attempted to end her life but felt an overwhelming presence that later led her to claim she saw the archangel Michael.

Public Fascination and Skepticism

Listeners of The Exorcist Files frequently ask whether these accounts are genuine. Some experts and everyday witnesses report odd phenomena—moving objects, voices from beyond—that fuel the debate. The show blends horror with faith, inviting viewers to confront both terror and spirituality.

Exorcism in Practice

Exorcism is more than a cinematic trope. Catholic priests perform two rites:

  • Major Rite – Reserved for priests with a bishop’s permission.
  • Minor Rite – Accessible to any Christian.

Both aim to remove the “permission” a demon has to inhabit a person. Father Szada described his case as a repossession, where the demon returned stronger after each attempt. He believes that prayer alone is insufficient; the afflicted must also transform their lives and reject sin.

Rising Numbers of Trained Priests

In recent years, churches have increased the number of priests trained for exorcisms. The Catholic Church’s International Association of Exorcists reports more cases than ever before, underscoring a persistent interest in the unseen.

The Persistence of Supernatural Belief

Even as scientific understanding expands, people continue to ask about suffering, evil, and the unseen world. Data indicates that while fewer Americans identify as religious, many still believe in ghosts and demons—suggesting a growing belief in the supernatural despite declining faith in organized religion.

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