Demon

Scripture and the Church's Tradition see in demons fallen angels who, having been created naturally good by God, became evil by their own self-determination. The "sin" of these angels was a radical and irrevocable rejection of God and his Kingdom (CCC 391–392).

Rebellion and Fall

The Church teaches that Satan was at first a good angel, made by God. He and the other demons were created naturally good, but they became evil by their own doing. Their choice against God was definitive; there is no repentance for them after their fall, just as there is no repentance for men after death (CCC 391–393).

Influence and Limitation

The power of Satan is not infinite. He is only a creature, powerful because he is pure spirit, but still a creature. He cannot prevent the building up of God's reign. Although Satan may act in the world out of hatred for God, his action is permitted by divine providence (CCC 395).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Satan a real person? Yes. Catholic teaching affirms that the Devil and demons are personal, intelligent spiritual beings, not merely symbols of psychological or social evil (CCC 391).

Can demons possess people? The Church acknowledges the possibility of demonic possession and provides the rite of Exorcism for such cases, though it proceeds with great caution to distinguish spiritual affliction from psychological illness (CCC 1673).