The International Association of Exorcists met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on March 13, raising concerns about what they described as a growing prevalence of occultism, esotericism, and Satanism. The group urged the Pope to expand training and ensure every diocese has at least one properly trained exorcist priest.

According to EWTN Vatican, the association called for stronger formation efforts across the Church, including seminary instruction, specialized training for newly appointed bishops, and clearer pastoral guidelines for handling sensitive cases involving alleged demonic activity.

Father Francesco Bamonte, vice president of the association, warned that failing to address these issues could leave members of the faithful without proper spiritual support and potentially push them toward harmful alternatives. He emphasized the need for careful, responsible, and Gospel-centered pastoral care in responding to such situations.

During the meeting, Pope Leo XIV reflected on his past friendship with Father Gabriele Amorth, the founder of the International Association of Exorcists and one of the most well-known exorcists in the Catholic Church.

The Pope was presented with the book “Guidelines for the Ministry of Exorcism” and an image of Saint Michael the Archangel from the sanctuary of Monte Sant’Angelo. The meeting underscores growing attention within the Church to how it addresses spiritual warfare and pastoral care in the modern era.