VII. Various Catholics Hold Phenomena of Satanic Origin

1. GEARON FINDS “DIABOLIC ORIGIN” THEORY PERSUASIVE

Even certain Catholic writers, according to P. J. Gearon, believe Spiritism’s “abnormal happenings are due to Satan.” And he adds that to such “the Diabolic Theory is exceedingly persuasive,” citing the fact thatCFF2 1168.4

“the medium sometimes utters blasphemies, propounds immoral doctrines, and, in general, exhibits certain signs which would seem to point to the direct action of Satan.” ^{2121) P. J. Gearon, Spiritism: Its Failure, pp. 116, 117.}CFF2 1168.5

Gearon also observes that some cite the Second Plenary Council of Baltimore in support of the “diabolic origin” view. He says further: “We find in Holy Scripture an express condemnation of the practice of consulting the dead through sorcerers, necromancers, magicians and similar agencies.” ^{2222) Ibid., p. 126.}CFF2 1168.6

2. VAUGHAN-VISITANTS MAY BE “SATANIC SPIRITS.”

Another Catholic warning voice is that of Bernard Vaughan, who refers to the “menace of spiritualism” and the “ruin wrought” upon many by “this insidious form of necromancy.” He refers to it as “a snare trapping you into communion with devils,” and adds that since “no one” can “prove that their spiritual visitants [at a “seance”] are the creatures they claim to be,” “how can anyone disprove them to be satanic spirits?” And he solemnly warns against being “sucked into such a vortex.” ^{2323) Bernard Vaughan, Foreword in Elliot O’Donnell, The Menace of Spiritualism, pp. 1-3.}CFF2 1168.7

3. HOLE-MESSAGES FROM PERSONATING EVIL SPIRIT

Still another Catholic writer, Donald Hole, likewise refers to many Catholics who feel that “spirit-messages” are “produced by the agency of the devil,” and that the purported message is not from any “departed friend but from an evil spirit personating him.” And he twice adds that this “diabolic theory” is certainly one that would “cover all the facts.” This, he says, leads us to “infer diabolic agency.” ^{2424) Donald Hole, Spiritualism and the Church, pp. 66, 67.}CFF2 1169.1

But to return to ancient Israel.CFF2 1169.2