An exorcism is referred to as the practice of the removal and/or eviction of a demon, demons and/or other evil spirit(s) from a  person who is believed to have been possessed.  This practice call also be applied to a place where spirits are found to be inhabiting.

 

Exorcisms are to be conducted by a person known as an exorcist.  Usually this will be a priest, but can also be an individual believed to be blessed with special powers and skills.  The exorcist will call upon God during the exorcism, but can also appeal to many different angels and archangels as well.  Prayers, crosses and Holy Water are used during the performance of an exorcism while gestures, symbols, icons and amulets of religious significance can also be used.

 

The concept and execution of exorcisms is an ancient practice and is still embraced by many religions today even though its importance has declined due to psychiatric research of the human mind and mental illness.