Father Chad Ripperger: The Life and Work of an Exorcist

 In a world that often dismisses the supernatural, Father Chad Ripperger stands out as one of the most prominent voices addressing the realities of spiritual warfare. Known for his work as an exorcist and a theologian, Father Ripperger has made it his mission to enlighten people about the presence of evil and the power of God’s grace. His teachings, informed by years of experience and deep theological insight, continue to inspire many seeking guidance on spiritual protection.

Early Life and Mentor

Father Chad Ripperger was ordained in 1997 and began his journey as a priest in the Diocese of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He pursued theological studies with a particular focus on traditional Catholic teachings, and this led him down a path few venture to explore—exorcism.

While much of Father Ripperger’s formation as an exorcist remains private due to the nature of the ministry, his mentor in the field was Father Malachi Martin, a famous exorcist and author, known for his detailed accounts of spiritual battles. Father Martin's influence is evident in Ripperger’s approach to exorcism, marked by a combination of traditional Catholic doctrine and a deep reverence for the spiritual realities that often go unseen.

Father Ripperger’s Work

Father Ripperger is not just an exorcist but also a founder. In 2013, he established the Society of the Most Sorrowful Mother (also known as the Doloran Fathers), a society of exorcists dedicated to helping those afflicted by demonic influence. His work often involves not only the performance of exorcisms but also educating the faithful about the nature of demonic influence and how to protect oneself spiritually.

He has written extensively on the subject of spiritual warfare, his most notable work being Deliverance Prayers: For Use by the Laity, a book that equips ordinary people with prayers of protection and guidance in the face of spiritual attacks. In addition to his writing, Father Ripperger has recorded countless videos and talks, where he delves deep into the theological and practical aspects of dealing with demonic forces.

Anecdotes from the Battlefront

One of the most striking aspects of Father Ripperger’s talks is his ability to relay real-life experiences of dealing with demonic manifestations. While he remains cautious about sharing specific details, to protect the privacy of those involved, he has shared general insights that offer a glimpse into the intensity of his work.

For example, he has recounted instances where the presence of evil was so overwhelming that it took several hours of continuous prayer to weaken the demon’s grip on a person. He also speaks about the cunning nature of demons, how they manipulate human emotions and thoughts, and how the power of prayer, the sacraments, and a firm faith in God ultimately triumph.

In one of his talks, he mentioned a case where a person possessed exhibited knowledge they could not have had naturally. This, according to Father Ripperger, is a common trait of true possession—access to hidden knowledge, sometimes about the exorcist themselves, designed to instill fear or doubt. However, he emphasizes that God’s power is always greater, and through the help of the Virgin Mary, the demons are ultimately defeated.

The Best Advice from Father Ripperger

Perhaps the most significant advice Father Ripperger offers is a call to live a life of grace. He consistently reminds the faithful that demons cannot possess or influence someone who remains in a state of grace, participating in the sacraments regularly, especially confession and the Eucharist. His teaching is clear: spiritual warfare is not something that can be won with mere human strength—it requires God’s grace.

Some of his key pieces of advice include:

1. Frequent Confession: Father Ripperger stresses that regular confession weakens the influence of the devil. Confession heals the soul and removes the foothold that evil may have gained through sin.

2. Daily Prayer and Devotion: He recommends praying the Rosary daily, as it has been known to have great power in driving away evil. He also encourages the use of sacramentals such as holy water, blessed salt, and the St. Benedict Medal.

3. Detachment from Sin and Worldliness: He speaks about the importance of renouncing sins and attachments that may open the door to demonic influence. Living a life focused on God and resisting the temptations of the world is crucial in protecting oneself from evil.

4. Humility: One of the virtues he emphasizes most is humility. The devil preys on pride and ego, and by cultivating humility, one can resist many forms of spiritual attack.

5. Seek the Help of the Virgin Mary: Father Ripperger often talks about the power of the Virgin Mary in exorcisms, calling her the “terror of demons.” He urges people to ask for her intercession in their battles with evil.

Conclusion

Father Chad Ripperger’s work as an exorcist and spiritual guide continues to impact the lives of many. His deep understanding of the spiritual realm, combined with his commitment to helping those in need, has made him a significant figure in modern Catholicism. Through his writings, talks, and his work with the Doloran Fathers, Father Ripperger has become a beacon of hope for those seeking protection from the forces of darkness.

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Sources: 

 Society of the Most Sorrowful Mother

1. ^ Jump up to:^a b "Fr. Chad Ripperger". Our Sorrowful Mother's Ministry. Retrieved January 12, 2019.
2. ^ Jump up to:^a b Profile in the website of the Archdiocese of Denver
3. ^ "Fr. Chad Ripperger". Tumblar House. Retrieved March 3, 2018.
4. ^ Douglas, Max (January 17, 2017). "Traditionalist Society of Exorcists Moving to Denver". Church Militant.
5. ^ Society of the Most Sorrowful Mother: Chapel, accessed November 9, 2021.