Family Guide: What to Expect When a Diocese Opens an Exorcism Investigation

Introduction — Why this guide matters

When a diocese begins an exorcism investigation, families often face uncertainty, fear, and many practical questions. This guide explains the typical process, what clergy usually do (and won’t do), the roles of medical and mental-health professionals, your family’s rights, and how to prepare and protect the vulnerable person.

The aim is to set clear expectations so you can make informed decisions, protect the person’s wellbeing, and collaborate constructively with clergy and clinicians.

Typical steps in a diocesan exorcism investigation

While procedures vary by diocese, most follow a careful, multi-stage approach that prioritizes clinical assessment and pastoral care before any liturgical action. Expect a methodical process rather than immediate public rituals.

1. Initial contact and pastoral intake

• Family meets with a parish priest or pastoral leader to describe concerns.
• Clergy document observed behaviors, onset, frequency, and contextual factors (medical history, medications, trauma, substance use, sleep issues).
• Pastoral support is typically offered immediately (prayer, spiritual accompaniment, temporary accommodations).

2. Medical and mental-health screening

• Dioceses require medical and psychiatric evaluation to exclude treatable conditions (neurological disorders, infections, medication effects, primary psychiatric illness).
• Expect requests for medical records, specialist referrals (neurology, psychiatry), and possible inpatient assessment if safety is a concern.
• Clinical teams may perform lab tests, imaging, and structured psychiatric assessments.

3. Diocesan review and specialist consultation

• If clinical teams do not explain the phenomena, the diocese’s appointed exorcist (or a commission) reviews documentation.
• They may interview family members, clergy, and clinicians and may observe interactions or behaviors in controlled settings.
• Canonical considerations: the diocese assesses whether criteria for further liturgical action are met under canon law and local norms.

4. Decision: pastoral measures vs. formal rites

• Possible outcomes include continued pastoral care, specialized spiritual remedies (e.g., prayers, blessings), or—rarely—formal rites of exorcism performed by authorized clergy following diocesan and canonical protocols.
• Any move toward a formal rite generally requires documented clinical clearance, informed consent where possible, and authorization by the bishop or designated authority.

What families should know and do — practical advice

Families play a central role. These practical steps help protect the person while cooperating with clergy and clinicians.

Key actions

• Keep records: Note dates, times, descriptions of episodes, triggers, and witness names. Copies of medical records and prescriptions will be requested.
• Prioritize medical/psychiatric evaluation: Promptly follow through with recommended tests and specialist visits. This is a required step in most dioceses.
• Ask for written procedures: Request documentation of diocesan steps, who will oversee the case, and which canonical criteria they are using.
• Clarify consent & confidentiality: Ask how information will be shared, who has access, and whether the person’s consent is required or can be given by a legal guardian.
• Maintain safety: If there’s risk of harm to the person or others, notify clinicians and consider emergency services. Do not wait for ecclesial action in emergencies.

Questions to ask diocesan authorities

• Who is assigned to this case, and what is their role?
• What clinical evaluations are required before any ritual action?
• What are the expected timelines and decision points?
• Will the process be documented in writing? How is confidentiality handled?
• What pastoral support is available for family members?

Communication tips

• Designate one family point-person to coordinate with clergy and clinicians to reduce mixed messages.
• Remain calm and factual when describing events; emotional restraint helps professional evaluators.
• Respect the diocesan process but retain the right to seek second opinions and independent clinical care.

When to seek outside help

Always seek medical or emergency help if there is danger, severe psychiatric symptoms (suicidality, psychosis causing harm), unmanaged seizures, or when behavior endangers others. An ongoing diocesan inquiry does not replace urgent medical care.