A recent gathering at the Vatican has drawn renewed attention to what Church leaders describe as a growing spiritual challenge affecting vulnerable believers worldwide. During a private audience on March 13, Pope Leo XIV met with representatives of the International Association of Exorcists, who raised concerns about an apparent increase in occult-related activity and its effects on the faithful.

According to IBTimes, the group presented findings indicating a rise in cases linked to “occultism, esotericism, and Satanism,” warning that some individuals may be facing serious spiritual repercussions. The conversation highlighted not only the spread of these practices but also the Church’s preparedness to respond in a measured, pastoral, and responsible way.