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Discover the history, stages, and continued use of exorcisms in various religious groups. Learn why people continue to believe and the challenges of testing exorcisms. Explore the personal and vivid testimonials that support this practice.
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Exorcisms Ashley Blackmon & Amber Mangrum
What is an Exorcism? • Ritual Act of driving out evil demons from persons, places, or things in the name of God or a higher power
History of Exorcism • 1st mentioned by Pope Cornelius in 253 CE in a letter • Used in several different religious groups and Cultures: Jews Catholics Christians Egyptians
Stages • The Presence • Break-point • The Voice • The Clash • Expulsion
Still used today • Children die from due to the use of exorcisms • Example: Terrance in Wisconsin • Priests still use today
Why people continue to believe: • Supported by a major religious group • Response to uncertainty • Confirmation bias/ 1 sided outcome • In response to media • Personal and vivid testimonials
Testing Exorcisms: • Can not ethically test exorcisms because place subject in physical and emotional danger • Can not measure or determine if a person is scientifically possessed by the devil • Belief is not falsifiable
The End • “ Evil Spirit is personal, and it is intelligent. It is preternatural, in the sense that it is not of this material world, but it is in this material world. Contemporary life is no exception.” ~ Father Malachi Martin