At what point should we be worried about spiritual deliverance ministry?

Rev Dr Helen Hall explores some of the darker consequences of deliverance ministry and asks how we can keep each other safe.

There is a lot of diversity amongst Christian communities in relation deliverance, healing and demonic possession. Different traditions adopt distinctive doctrinal positions and practices, and it is also not uncommon for there to be a spectrum of opinion within a particular denomination. However, all groups have an interest in ensuring that the vulnerable people are protected.The state also has a responsibility to ensure that abuses and dangerous behaviours are kept in check.

Tragedies such as the murder of Victoria Climbié provide stark examples of the consequences of failing in this area. Victoria was living with her great-aunt, and was subjected to appalling physical and emotional torture because she was believed to be under malign spiritual influences.