Why Perform a Minor Exorcism?
Recently, His Eminence Cardinal Burke performed a minor exorcism on the grounds of the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Major and minor exorcisms differ in some important ways. A major exorcism is much longer and is used when significant evidence indicates demonic possession. A minor exorcism, on the other hand, can be used as a blessing or protective measure; as Cardinal Burke explained, it “is used to drive away the influence of Satan from people and places when it’s either perceived or when it’s likely to happen.” The struggle of God’s people against the “spiritual hosts of wickedness” (Eph 6:12) may become more intense in places like Our Lady’s Shrine, where some special work for souls is taking place.
An Intentional Start
The special occasion for this minor exorcism was the groundbreaking of the Saint Juan Diego Retreat House, a new milestone in the life of the Shrine. The rite, however, invoked blessings not only on the new construction site but on every part of the grounds. Following the prayer in the administrative office, Cardinal Burke proceeded to sprinkle holy water throughout the Pilgrim Center and up the Pilgrim Path, including the Mother of Good Counsel Votive Candle Chapel, Memorial to the Unborn, Stations of the Cross, Rosary Walk, Shrine Church Plaza, and priory of the Norbertine Fathers.
In Preparation
In addition to the prayer, composed by Pope Leo XIII, several sacramentals were also involved. Holy water played a central role, sprinkled in each location; blessed salt, also commonly used for spiritual protection, was mixed with the holy water. Cardinal Burke also wore a pectoral cross containing a relic of St. Godentius of Brescia, bishop, martyr, and Father of the Church. “If there’s a relic there, you have an extra intercessor, you have extra grace to help you confront any presence of the evil one,” the Cardinal commented.
Blessings Welcome Grace
As keeping out darkness means bringing in light, the exorcism has not only a negative meaning of defense or repulsion, but a positive meaning of seeking divine grace and blessing. “We’re trying to keep [Satan] out by blessing these places,” says Cardinal Burke. “It’s a blessing welcoming the grace that comes from our Lord, which will help us to be strong against any kind of devilment, so to speak.”
Sustaining Peace
The Shrine, then, continues to take full advantage of the rich benefits the Catholic Church offers her children. Our Lord, in His generosity, entrusts to her the distributing of His graces, making them easily available in simple ways. Even small things like water and salt, relics and a prayer of blessing, can help to protect and sustain a peaceful, joyful life in Christ.
Experiencing the Peace of the Shrine
Every year, over one-hundred thousand pilgrims come with their parishes, families, and friends to the Shrine. Learn about the Shrine’s apostolate of hospitality.
