“I Cast You Out, Unclean Spirit!”

It’s so ironic that non-theists always have to be on the defensive about our scientifically verifiable worldview, while others who believe in the most incredible baloney are treated with deference.

Case in point:  a conference on exorcism held by American Catholic bishops.  From the nytimes.com:

The purpose [of the conference] is not necessarily to revive the practice, the organizers say, but to help Catholic clergy members learn how to distinguish who really needs an exorcism from who really needs a psychiatrist, or perhaps some pastoral care.

As far as I’m concerned all of these folks could use a good long rest in a psychiatric facility.  This is just hysterical:

There is plenty of cynicism among American Catholics — even among priests — about exorcism. Mr. Baglio noted that there are hucksters who prey on vulnerable believers, causing them physical or spiritual harm. As a result, he thought it was helpful that the church is making an effort to train more priests to perform the rite legitimately.

Well as long as they’re learning how to get rid of the demons properly, then that’s a different story.

Honestly, I just couldn’t make up better stuff.