The Archdiocese of Manila on Monday inaugurated a center for “spiritual liberation”, as Church leaders cited an increase in cases involving spiritual distress.
Cardinal Jose Advincula of Manila said the blessing of the Makati City facility, dedicated to Saint Michael, marked more than the opening of a building.
“This is not merely the inauguration of a building. It is the consecration of a mission,” Advincula said during the rites.
The center will serve as the hub of the archdiocese’s Ministry of Exorcism and Spiritual Liberation.
St. Michael is widely invoked in Catholic devotion for protection against evil spirits, particularly in exorcisms.
Fr. Jose Francisco Syquia, chief exorcist of Manila, said the establishment of the center comes amid a rise in cases referred to the archdiocese’s Office of Exorcism.
“Especially now, cases of diabolical oppression, obsession and possession are increasing. We usually receive about two cases a day,” Syquia told Radyo Veritas.
He clarified that most cases involve spiritual oppression rather than full possession.
“It is not simply about driving out the demon, but more specially to reanimate the relationship that the person has with God,” he said.
Advincula, however, cautioned against attributing all forms of suffering to demonic causes.
“Not all suffering is demonic. Not all struggle requires exorcism,” the cardinal said.
He said the Church recognizes the reality of spiritual struggles while upholding faith in Christ’s victory over evil.
“The Blood of the Lamb has already won the decisive victory,” Advincula said.
The cardinal also stressed the importance of discernment, particularly in an age marked by misinformation.
“In an era often described as the age of fake news, liberation must include the purification of speech and communication,” he said.
Church leaders said the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Liberation will provide formation and training for clergy engaged in exorcism and spiritual liberation ministries, both locally and in other parts of Asia.
They said the facility will also serve as a place of prayer and pastoral accompaniment for those seeking spiritual healing.
