John Paul II was the first pope since the early 1600s to view the devil and his minions not only as formidable foes, but as tangible, present forces which the Catholic church must battle on a daily basis. The priest charged with spearheading this mission is Father Gabriele Amorth and his Office of Exorcism. Revitalizing a long-dormant practice, Father Amorth has re-established exorcism as a common rite in the church with a series of seminars and training sessions during which priests from all over the world learn how to fight Satan here on Earth. The Rome bureau chief for the Los Angeles Times, journalist Tracy Wilkinson has gained access to the Vatican's highest authorities, allowing her to cover this story from every angle, including "beneficiaries" and "victims" of exorcism alike, skeptical scientists and laity, devout believers, and even those priests within the church who question the revival of the practice. A riveting account of a provocative subject, this outstanding work of investigative journalism will enthrall readers from start to finish.
