01/06/2026
The Church, since her early days, has held a special session for those who are unbaptized and seeking prayers for deliverance from the oppression of evil spirits. Those who are oppressed are known as energumens. Energumens are those who are not baptized but are individuals who are inquiring or still receiving instruction on how to become Christians while experiencing evil spiritual oppression. Often it affects their day-to-day life. They may experience depression, confusion, unexplained sickness, and/or even financial plunder.
This occurs during the Sunday liturgy, right after the sermon or homily. As the seeker and hearer receive the word of God, they must respond with faith. It is by their faith in Christ they will be delivered.
During the prayer, the energumens humbly come forward to the bishop or priest for the laying on of hands to receive the power of God to expel evil. At times, individuals may require multiple prayers, or the clergy may provide them with blessed holy salt to drive away evil spirits and demons.
The Western Church has not practiced this during the holy liturgy for a long time, as most of the Western continent has been Christianized. Most attendees in the Church were baptized as infants. Those who are baptized seldom seek such prayers, as they are regarded as members of Christ and will receive holy protection from God as long as they remain faithful, particularly by maintaining a consistent sacramental life. Unless they are apostates, in which case they will be subject to a different discipline.
We extend the Gospel to those who are seeking, including non-Orthodox Christians experiencing spiritual oppression. Come humbly with faith, believing that our Almighty God can deliver you from the dark forces that have been oppressing you or your family. We invite you to visit us on Sunday. Please speak to our priest if you are seeking prayers.
