Washington archdiocese removes exorcist after UFO comments spark controversy

The Archdiocese of Washington has removed a longtime exorcist from his role after comments he made connecting unidentified flying objects (UFOs) to demonic activity drew criticism from Church leadership.

In a statement released on June 3, Cardinal Robert McElroy, the archbishop of Washington, announced that Monsignor Stephen Rossetti had been removed from his position as an exorcist for the archdiocese. McElroy also stated that the archdiocese had concluded its affiliation with the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal, a Washington-based Catholic nonprofit led by Rossetti.

As per the archdiocese, the decision followed remarks Rossetti made in a YouTube video shared on May 29. In the video, Rossetti featured his personal view that “many, if not most, [UFO] sightings are, in fact, demons.”

End of affiliation with St. Michael Center

The archdiocese also revealed that it had terminated all ties with the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal.

As per the details published by the organization, the center offers spiritual education programs and training opportunities for clergy, religious members, and lay Catholics. Rossetti has been one of the center's most visible leaders and public representatives.

McElroy's statement cited that Rossetti is a priest of the Diocese of Syracuse, New York, despite serving for several years in the Washington archdiocese as an exorcist.

Rossetti responds to removal

After the announcement, Rossetti issued a statement expressing disappointment over the decision.

"I ask forgiveness for any ways that I have not been faithful to the teachings of the Church's Magisterium, particularly in the cited video on 'aliens and the demonic,'" he stated.

Rossetti highlighted his commitment to Church authority, mentioning: "I believe it is of the utmost importance to be obedient to the Church and I will continue to endeavor to subject all that I do and the Center to be thus obedient."

He added that he would remain encouraging others to follow Church teachings as well.

Reflecting on nearly two decades of ministry

Rossetti also featured gratitude for his years of service in Washington.

"I am grateful for 19 years of ministering in the Archdiocese of Washington as its exorcist and I thank the Archdiocese for its support and blessing all these years," he stated.

The priest added that he and his colleagues would remain praying for the archdiocese and its leadership.

The St. Michael Center “plans to continue its ministry elsewhere,” Rossetti stated.


As attention surrounding the controversy intensified, the YouTube video containing Rossetti's remarks was made private.

The incident has sparked discussion among Catholics and observers regarding the role of personal opinions in public ministry, particularly when remarks seem to conflict with official Church teaching.

FAQs:

Q1. Why did the controversy attract attention?

The issue gained attention because it involved a senior Catholic priest discussing UFOs and demons. The comments prompted a public response from Church leadership.

Q2. What role does an exorcist serve in the Catholic Church?

An exorcist is a priest authorized to perform certain rites related to spiritual ministry. The role operates under Church guidelines and oversight.