"Participation in the occult does not have only internal, spiritual consequences. In addition to losing focus on God, it can open up a person, or their home, to unwelcome spirits, leaving them at risk to various psychic and bodily disturbances".

Question:  Can Catholics go to fortune tellers, mediums, or psychics?

No!  This is considered participating in the Occult and is forbidden by the Church.

The Catholic Catechism teaches, “All forms of divination are to be rejected: recourse to Satan or demons, conjuring up the dead or other practices falsely supposed to ‘unveil’ the future. 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” (CCC 2116).

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When someone participates in these practices they are inviting the demonic forces around them into their life.  This doesn't mean that everybody who participates in these practices becomes possessed, but it can be very dangerous to the soul.  At the very least these things will lead a person away from God and open them up to the temptations of the devil.

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Young people often participate in the occult as a joke or recreation, but evil does not play games and can use these activities to tempt and mislead.  Young people are especially weak spiritually and are preyed upon by the demons who prowl about the world.  It is not unusual for people to call priests to offer prayers of blessing or deliverance when someone experiences unpleasant phenomena after engaging in the occult. Evil spirits are real and can manifest themselves, even if one does not desire their presence.

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Question:  Is using a Ouija Board OK?  It's just a game right?  

No!  By using a Ouija Board one is opening up their soul to the devil and his demons who can use the opportunity to prey on another victim.

 

Question:  Why does the Church need exorcisms?

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There are instances when a person needs to be protected against the power of the devil or to be withdrawn from his spiritual dominion. At such times, the Church asks publicly and authoritatively in the name of Jesus Christ for this protection or liberation through the use of exorcism.

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Question:  How does a Catholic fight against these evil forces?

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Attend Holy Mass, receive the Holy Eucharist, and receive the Sacraments.  A Catholic living in a state of sacramental grace is protected by God from the forces of evil.

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