Since the premier and success of the The Exorcist in 1973, exorcisms and demonic possessions have become a staple in the horror cinematic genre. From cheesy CGI to terrifying true-stories, the theme of exorcisms gripped Hollywood and piqued interest world-wide.
However, for Father Robert Cruz at the International Association of Exorcists, exorcisms are not just some plot development from the latest Stephen King adaptation. They are a powerful weapon in the battle between good and evil.
FATHER ROBERT CRUZ
Exorcist Priest
Exorcism is when the Church asks authoritatively, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to help those who are more seriously oppressed or tormented to be defended from the work of the enemies and to be withdrawn from the dominion of Satan and the evil spirits.
Fr. Cruz, who was originally in healing ministry, was asked to join AIE (International Association of Exorcists) by the bishop of his diocese to help combat the increase in violent, demonic activity across the globe.
FATHER ROBERT CRUZ
Exorcist Priest
When I got involved in the AIE, when I attended the conferences, we in the AIE we realized that for the last 20 to 25 years, the demons are not hiding no longer. They are more daring to tempt, to stir chaos. Why?
It's some of the positions of the exorcists in the AIE, that we are living in this neo-pagan society. We believe everything, except God.
That's why, according to Fr. Cruz, it's so important to have accurate depictions of exorcisms in film – so people can see the real danger in the demonic, but know there is also hope in faith.
FATHER ROBERT CRUZ
Exorcist Priest
Even if we believe it or not, Lucifer, Satan, the Prince of Darkness, and the demons continue to create chaos in our society and in our own lives.
In the film, Triumph Over Evil, which premiered in the US on October 30, Fr. Cruz said he could name the exorcists they interviewed.
FATHER ROBERT CRUZ
Exorcist Priest
Yes this movie is very important in so many reasons. One particularly is that this is more faithful to the teaching of the Catholic faith. Those who are being interviewed are real exorcists, they are not fake news exorcists, they're real.
However, Fr. Cruz calmly insisted that defeating evil forces isn't difficult or mysterious. Praying the rosary, the sacraments, consistent conversation with God, and fasting all are gifts from God to defend the faithful from the Devil.
FATHER ROBERT CRUZ
Exorcist Priest
We have all the graces we need. Particularly the sacrament of confession and the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. They are so powerful, that's why if you know this honestly, these are the two sacraments that the demons will do everything to destroy and to make it “boring” for people.
Our Lady is always there to protect. In many instances in exorcism, the demons will say so many vile things, but they can't even pronounce the name of Our Lady.
While Halloween is just around the corner and the viewership of horror films on the rise, the month of October is also dedicated to the rosary, and Fr. Cruz joined Pope Leo XIV in encouraging the faithful to pray it as often as possible, as a spiritual guide and a spiritual protection.
CRT
