Here we see the Pope in action
Father Cipriano de Meo, who has been an exorcist in Rome since 1952, says the way to find out about demons is by praying.
The victim's reaction to the exorcist and the words he says in prayer may provide the demonic answer.
As the exorcist says a prolonged prayer the adversary inside the victim will cause a reaction of some kind.
'A possessed person has various general attitudes towards an exorcist, who is seen by the adversary as an enemy ready to fight him.'
'There's no lack of frightening facial expressions, threatening words or gestures and other things,' he said, 'but especially blasphemies against God and Our Lady.'
'Therefore, before an exorcism is performed, it is important to ascertain that one is dealing with the presence of the Evil One.'
There's always time for a wave
Then there are these warnings: Stay away from demonic activity: 'Consulting horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretation of omens and lots, the phenomena of clairvoyance, and recourse to mediums all conceal a desire for power over time, history, and, in the last analysis, other human beings, as well as a wish to conciliate hidden powers. They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone.'
But the advice doesn't stop there, Father de Meo has advice on how to avoid being possessed.
He said that people often turn to 'the chatter of magicians and Illusionists' for answers in life, rather than 'the weapons the Lord has put at our disposal.'
Meaning, that the best defense against demonic possession is a simple and sacramental life of prayer.
'It's absolutely fundamental to get rid of sin and live in the grace of God,' he said.
As for the exorcists themselves, it is important to remain humble and to remember that their power comes from Christ, Father de Meo added.
'Regarding spiritual preparation, humility and the conviction that we exorcists aren't the ones who are going to cast out the demon that's fighting Christ. We're called to fight on behalf of Christ.'
