Pricey path to become a demon slayer

When politics resembles possession, some have suggested that the Vatican should offer group rates for exorcising elected officials

- Des Erasmus

In the northern hemisphere spring of 2025, aspiring exorcists from around the world will again descend on a campus in Rome, where the Catholic Church continues its centuries-old tradition of teaching priests and laity how to cast out demons.

The price for professional training in the ancient rite of exorcism if you are South African? Roughly R35 000 including air fare, but excluding the cost of breakfast, dinner and accommodation in the Eternal City.

Many South Africans will probably be less interested in casting out evil spirits from their neighbours or colleagues and more keen to learn how to expel something far more insidious: corrupt ghouls with taxpayer-funded pensions and VIP protection. But more about that later.

Rome’s week-long course on the Ministry of Exorcism and Deliverance, to be held from 12 to 16 May at the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum, is hosted annually by the Sacerdos Institute.

Students delve into the theological, liturgical and canonical underpinnings of exorcism, as well as its psychological, neurological and even pharmacological dimensions.

There are legal and forensic aspects too, reflecting a modern understanding of phenomena once blamed on the devil alone.

The programme is open to Catholic clergy and lay people. But don’t just show up clutching holy water. Lay participants must submit a letter of recommendation from a Catholic ecclesiastical authority, a statement of intent, an identity document or passport, and a full CV.