The Authority of Human Fathers in Spiritual Combat

In pages 91-93 of Slaying Dragons: What Exorcists See & What We Should Know, Charles Fraune delves into the profound spiritual authority that fathers possess within the family unit. This authority is not exclusive to the Church but extends to the family, where the father serves as both shepherd and gatekeeper, playing a pivotal role in the spiritual and material well-being of his household.

The Role of the Father

The father’s headship grants him the authority to bless his family, including his wife and children. While the mother shares in this authority, particularly in blessing the children, she does not hold the same level of spiritual authority over the father. This distinction is rooted in the creation narrative of Eve, as explained by St. Thomas Aquinas. Eve was created from Adam’s rib to signify equality, not from his feet to indicate servitude, nor from his head to denote authority over him. This creation story establishes a divinely instituted hierarchy within the family, where the father holds a unique position of authority.

Tip: Consider making it a daily practice to bless each of your family members by tracing the sign of the Cross on their foreheads. This simple yet profound gesture, reminiscent of the blessing you gave at their baptism, is a powerful reminder of God’s protection and their belonging to Jesus.

The Spiritual Battle

Demons, aware of this divinely instituted structure, often target families, particularly focusing on the father. According to Fr. Truqui, a demon named Asmodeus, first mentioned in the Book of Tobit, specifically targets families. This demon orchestrated the deaths of seven husbands of Sarah, only to be driven out by St. Raphael, the archangel. In exorcisms, the proper use of a father’s authority is crucial, mirroring the authority required to expel demons.

The neglect or misuse of this authority can open the door to demonic influence, not just for the father but for the entire family. Fathers are called to be vigilant, like St. Joseph, known as the “Terror of Demons,” in protecting their families from both spiritual and material harm.

Tip: Ask for St. Joseph’s help to become a “Terror of Demons” for your family.

Generational Consequences

Fraune also discusses the concept of generational spirits, which can enter a family through the father’s sins, as indicated in the Book of Exodus, where God warns that He will visit “the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and the fourth generation” (Ex 20:5). A father’s mortal sin, such as involvement with pornography, makes him particularly vulnerable to diabolical influence. If a demon enters through the father, it can corrupt the entire family and potentially persist through subsequent generations.

Tip: Go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation at least once a month, and as soon as possible if you commit a mortal sin.

Conclusion

The spiritual authority of the father is a critical element in safeguarding the family from diabolical influence. Fathers are urged to remain steadfast in their spiritual responsibilities, recognizing their unique role in the divine hierarchy that governs the family. Through Confession and adherence to God’s commands, they can ensure the protection and blessing of their household, preventing the infiltration and generational persistence of evil.