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Pope's blessing silenced possessed men, says veteran exorcist

CWN - February 02, 2012

An outspoken veteran exorcist has reported that two men who were apparently possessed by demons reacted dramatically when Pope Benedict XVI blessed them.

Father Gabriele Amorth said that the two men fell to the floor, then howled and raged as the Pope arrived for an audience. When the Pope blessed them, the men flew backwards and were silent.

Father Federico Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, said that Pope Benedict did not perform an exorcism. If the two men attended a public audience, he said, the Pontiff would have known nothing about them, and only gave his blessing as he usually does.

Father Amorth, who has already written several books about exorcism and demonic possession, recounts the incident in another forthcoming book.

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Show 3 Comments? (Hidden)Hide Comments
  • Posted by: mamato085337 - Feb. 03, 2012 1:18 PM ET USA

    Thank you, n.gunther for the very hearty and unstoppable laugh at your comment.

  • Posted by: n.gunther79030 - Feb. 02, 2012 7:42 PM ET USA

    Maybe we can get Holy Father to bless the field of Republican candidates.

  • Posted by: Justin8110 - Feb. 02, 2012 6:21 PM ET USA

    Not all demons require a solemn exorcism to be expelled. All bishops are exorcists and the Pope, being a bishop, is no exception. The Holy Father can cast out the devil by virtue of his office and as the Vicar of Christ he certainly has the authority to do so.

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