In a significant decision affecting the Catholic community, Cardinal Robert McElroy, the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., has removed Monsignor Stephen Rossetti from his role as an exorcist. This action follows Rossetti’s public comments suggesting that many UFO sightings could be attributed to demonic activity.

Controversial Statements

Monsignor Rossetti, a well-known figure in the Catholic Church and head of the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal, made these statements in a video posted on his Facebook page. He expressed his belief that demons often hide their activities and manipulate events to influence human behavior negatively. Rossetti stated, “It’s my personal belief that probably many if not most of these UFO sightings are in fact demons.”

His comments have sparked a reaction from the archdiocese, leading to a severing of ties with the St. Michael Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to spiritual healing for priests. Cardinal McElroy emphasized that Rossetti’s statements and the center’s recent social media activities undermine the Church’s teachings on demons and exorcism.

Response and Apology

In response to the archdiocese’s decision, Rossetti expressed sadness and sought forgiveness for any deviation from the Church’s teachings. He reiterated his commitment to obedience to the Church’s Magisterium and pledged to align his actions and those of the center accordingly.

Despite the controversy, Rossetti maintains a significant following on social media, with over 148,000 Instagram followers. His work as a psychologist and exorcist has drawn attention, particularly as interest in demonic possession and exorcism has grown in recent years.

Rossetti clarified that Catholics can believe in extraterrestrial life without contradicting their faith, although he personally does not believe in life beyond Earth.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.