Why Are Exorcisms Suddenly So Popular in Idaho?

It could be the economy. Maybe it was the lack of snow in the Treasure Valley this winter. It could have been this year's Boise State football season. Whatever the reason, exorcisms are becoming extremely popular in the Gem State for people who believe they are being haunted.

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Most exorcisms performed by pastors or priests aren't made public. The last documented exorcism in Idaho was in 2018 at the former home of a priest who was in prison for child pornography. Church authorities wanted to cleanse the house from potential lingering "disturbances."

The Catholic Church has 125 priests trained in exorcism in the United States. Other denominations, including Evangelical and Pentecostal churches, also perform exorcisms, each with different approaches.

If you are experiencing any of the following, you may want to consider consulting your pastor or priest regarding exorcism:

• If you hear footsteps, knocking, or whispers when no one else is around.
• You are experiencing cold spots or feeling like you are being touched.
• There has been a sudden and drastic change in your mood or behavior, especially if you feel influenced by external forces.
• You're having frequent nightmares or sleep paralysis and feelings of dread.
• You have overwhelming negativity or sadness in a particular space or room.

Make sure that you keep a record of your experiences to share with your pastor or priest. It is also possible that you are experiencing a mental health crisis, in which case you should consider talking to a counselor.

Because it is tax season, you should know that in the State of Idaho, you cannot deduct the cost of an exorcism in the unlikely event a church charges you for the service. Idaho does not consider an exorcism a medical expense. However, if you have a recommendation from a legitimate doctor to get the exorcism, it could be possible to deduct the service. Still, you'd need to get advice from a tax expert first.