I was training a new exorcist who initially said the Rite of Exorcism methodically but without enthusiasm. I told him, “You need to look the demon in the eye and command him to leave!” An exorcist needs to be infused with the powerful and intense spirit of St. Michael the Archangel. It was Michael who rose up out of ranks of faithful angels and vehemently led the charge against Lucifer and his legions. His battle cry was, “Quis ut Deus?”, that is, “Who is like God?” Lucifer had dared to challenge the Almighty and St. Michael burned with a righteous anger. Like Jesus casting the money-changers out of the Temple, Michael wielded the Sword of Truth and cast out Lucifer.
We have been given to understand that, even now, St. Michael is spiritually present at every exorcism. Also, we understand that at least one, and maybe more, from the Powers of heaven (a high ranking and powerful angel) are at the exorcist’s side in the daily battle for the possessed.
Together, the exorcist and these powerful angels continue Jesus’ ministry of casting out evil from our world.
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