Demonic possession has always been a topic of interest — but does it actually exist? Matt Baglio, a journalist and the author of the book, “The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist,” intends to find out, along with American priest Father Gary Thomas, if demon possession is a real occurrence or just an unidentified mental disorder.

Baglio also investigates whether exorcism is just a farce, or if it is a helpful tool in ridding some people of actual demons, as he follows Father Gary through his exorcism training in Rome.

In the chapter on a talent referred to as “discernment,” Baglio discusses how exorcists must know the difference between a mental illness and demonic possession. If the exorcist cannot discern, the exorcism may harm the person being exorcised. According to a notable exorcist, Father Matteo La Grua, discernment is actually a gift to exorcists so that they can help truly rid people of demons by the will of God.

True to his journalistic nature — he freelances for news organizations and magazines like The Associated Press and The American Magazine — Baglio gives biblical references for those interested in demonic possessions occurring in the Bible, and he gives a summary of the history of theories on other-worldly creatures and beings, including demons, angels, Satan and God.

Baglio gives disturbing accounts of demonic possessions and exorcisms, which, while thrilling, border on almost unbelievable. One account describes a woman whose jaw becomes unhinged while assumedly possessed by a demon.

Of course, the reader must use his or her judgment and decide if exorcism is real — or just a good story. Baglio offers his own insight on exorcism at the end of the book in the author’s note.
Either way, make sure the lights are on and someone else is in the room while reading.
Reach the reporter at reweaver@asu.edu.