Lugano Diocese appoints exorcist amid modernized approach

Traditional role revived with new academic requirements and growing demand for services

The Diocese of Lugano has officially appointed Father Gabriele Diener as the new exorcist, filling a vacancy left since 2020.
Modern exorcists are required to undergo university training in Rome and collaborate with medical professionals.
St. Gallen and German-speaking Switzerland largely reject the specific role of an exorcist, utilizing interdisciplinary teams instead.

100+

calls received

900+

members

"I’ve seen people spit nails – I can’t explain it, but I saw it with my own eyes."
— Paolo Rodari

"I’m happy to be an exorcist—otherwise where would these people go? To magicians! To charlatans!"
— Don Ambrogio

Lugano Fills the Void

The Diocese of Lugano has officially appointed Father Gabriele Diener as the new exorcist, filling a vacancy left since 2020.
Modern exorcists are required to undergo university training in Rome and collaborate with medical professionals.
St. Gallen and German-speaking Switzerland largely reject the specific role of an exorcist, utilizing interdisciplinary teams instead.

100+

calls received

900+

members

"I’ve seen people spit nails – I can’t explain it, but I saw it with my own eyes."
— Paolo Rodari

"I’m happy to be an exorcist—otherwise where would these people go? To magicians! To charlatans!"
— Don Ambrogio