The Catholic Archdiocese of Washington DC has removed Monsignor Stephen Rossetti as an exorcist after he publicly suggested that UFO sightings may be demonic deceptions. Cardinal Robert McElroy, the archbishop, stated that Rossetti's comments 'gravely undermine' church teaching on the devil, demons, and exorcism.
In a 29 May video posted on his Facebook page, Rossetti said, 'It's my personal belief that probably many if not most of these UFO sightings are in fact demons.' He warned that demons 'like to hide' and can manipulate people to do evil. While he acknowledged that Catholics could believe in extraterrestrial life, he personally does not.
The archdiocese also cut ties with the St Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal, a non-profit headed by Rossetti. McElroy cited the center's recent social media use as further reason for the action.
Rossetti, a prominent psychologist and exorcist with over 148,000 Instagram followers, expressed sadness in a statement on the center's website. He asked forgiveness for any infidelity to church teachings and pledged obedience to the Magisterium.
In 2023, Rossetti told the Associated Press that interest in demonic possession and exorcism was growing. The St Michael Center specializes in spiritual healing for troubled priests.
