The Scourge of Demons: A Classic Manual (1576) on Exorcism and Spiritual Warfare

Combining thorough research, practical insights, and personal experience, Fr. Menghi has given the Church a masterful tool to prudently “know thy enemy.”Translated by Fr. Robert Nixon, OSB, with a Foreword by Fr. Cliff Ermatinger, this classic manual by Fr. Girolamo Menghi, known as the “Father of the Exorcist’s Art” will open your eyes as it presents the many ways in which the enemy of our souls seeks to trap and ensnare and destroy those destined to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.This classic 16th century manual on exorcism and spiritual warfare was widely read by both parish priests and the laity. It enjoyed vast popularity both in its own time and in the three centuries which followed, appearing in well over twenty editions. During this time, it served as the definitive textbook and manual for priests involved in the conduct of exorcisms. It was popular even in nations that had recently become Protestant.Written in a relatively accessible style, readily comprehensible to the average parish priest, and firmly grounded in scholastic theology, it is an incredible resource for the entire Church today.The Scourge of Demons covers many practical aspects of our spiritual combat and our pursuit of virtue and holiness:finding the balance between devotion and superstitionthe importance of humility in avoiding the tricks of demonsthe power of music to fortify us against temptations and diabolical attacksthe power that the Saints wield against demonshow demons tend toward infighting and often attack each otherthe importance of avoiding curiosity on the topic of the diabolicaland many more!Fr. Girolamo Menghi (1529– 1609) was a learned and devout Italian Franciscan friar, priest, and theologian, with particularly extensive experience as an exorcist. Indeed, his reputation and authority on the practice of exorcism was such that he gained the appellation “The Father of the Exorcist’s Art.” Read more