Archbishop Removes Priest as Exorcist Following Comments on UFOs

Cardinal Robert McElroy, the Catholic archbishop of Washington, D.C., removed Monsignor Stephen Rossetti from his position as an exorcist on June 4, 2026, after Rossetti made public comments suggesting that UFO sightings could be linked to demons. McElroy stated that Rossetti's remarks and the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal's social media activity undermine the Church's teachings on demons and exorcism. In a video posted on May 29, Rossetti expressed concerns about the potential for demons to manipulate perceptions and suggested that many UFO sightings might be demonic in nature. He clarified that while he believes people can be good Catholics and still consider the possibility of extraterrestrial life, he personally does not believe in life on other planets. Following his removal, Rossetti expressed sadness and sought forgiveness for any deviation from Church teachings, emphasizing his commitment to obedience to the Church. Rossetti is a psychologist and has a significant following on social media, where he discusses spiritual healing for priests.