I think, when it comes to "exorcisms", the problem could be even bigger than we think it is.
I read once in a while threads, articles from websites, or posts in blogs, etc... , and they all seem to miss a very important point. What is it?
I say, is there a danger if an "exorcism" is not done correctly?
And why would I say that?
There are three examples that I can refer to, but for simplicity, I will only mention the one I think is the most famous one: Anneliese Michel.
Please, do not take my words out of context (again), I am not against exorcisms, I am just thinking that if they are done "the wrong way" they could get someone dead.
In such cases, the term "exorcism" would be incorrect, but people seem to use it anyways, I'll use it between quotes fro clarity. My point is that a "well performed exorcism" will never fail, but an "incorrectly performed" one not only could fail, but might kill the person.
How exactly could a Catholic exorcism be "incorrectly performed"?
The Charismatics perform "exorcisms" which resemble what Pentecostals do, and I frankly do not believe they can actually drive demons out of people. The Priest who was involved on the Anneliese Michel's "exorcism" was also involved with the Charismatic Movement. That leads me to believe that "pentecostal methods" where used during Her "exorcism" leading to Her death.
If what I am saying is true, and I am open to the possibility that I am wrong, the problem is bigger than we think.
Not only a Priest with Jurisdiction is needed, but an Authorization from the Local Ordinary Bishop, plus the pre-Vatican from of the Exorcism in Latin must be used. In addition to the OK from the Bishop, the Priest must request permission from that Bishop in order to use that old exorcism formula too. That narrows down the chances that the exorcism would be performed "the right way".
What are your thoughts on the matter?