Contacting the dead becomes a hot topic of discussion, especially during the Halloween season.
The New York Post recently published an article explaining how to "safely" use a Ouija board to contact the dead. However, this is both mortally sinful and dangerous!
ChurchPOP contacted Diocese of Nashville exorcist Father Dan Reehil, who explained why mediums, psychics, Ouija boards, occult practices, etc., are "unhealthy for your soul."
"When you try to contact your deceased loved ones, you're not really making contact with them. You're usually making contact with a demon, and the demon impersonates your loved one," Father Reehil says.
He explains that God sometimes allows the souls in Purgatory "to visit Earth and ask for prayers to help them attain the goal of heaven." However, "this is a very wonderful thing, but rare."
Father Reehil then explains that demons are very intelligent and "great deceivers." He says they can watch, listen, and "impersonate incredibly well."
"When you think you're talking to your dead grandmother, you're actually speaking to a demon, and then you're inviting them in through that dialogue. Then, they attach to you and give you all sorts of problems. Please don't try to contact the dead."
Catholic Church Teaching on Contacting the Dead
"God has told us in His word, in the scriptures, that it's offensive to him to try to dialogue with the dead," Father Reehill says.
"In the Old Testament Deut. 18, it says,
'Let no one be found among you who practice divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or cast spells, or who is a medium or spiritualist who consults the dead. Anyone, who does these things is detestable to the Lord.'
Father Reehil then advises the faithful to turn to the Holy Spirit for information. He says this is the perfect time of year to draw near to the Lord, especially with Christmas approaching.
He quotes John 14:26, which says,
"The Council of the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I've said to you."
"Get close to God, particularly during this time of year when there's a lot of demon activity happening," Father Reehil advises. "Love him. Obey Him worship Him."
"This pleases God tremendously and your love for God consoles the Sacred Heart of Jesus," he continues. "Can you imagine that we can console Jesus with our with our heartfelt love for Him?"
"Have a wonderful Solemnity of All Saints when we honor those who have gone before us and a crown with the victory of Heaven. God bless you."