Father Michael G. starts one-year media fast after meeting with Archbishop Aquila.

Father Michael G., the Denver archdiocese’s most visible exorcist, announced on Monday that he will step away from public speaking and all media appearances for a year after a private meeting with Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila. The decision was made at the archbishop’s urging and will take effect immediately. G. has built a sizable following on YouTube and TikTok, where his videos on demonic possession and exorcism have collectively drawn millions of views.

The pause comes amid growing scrutiny of how the Catholic Church presents exorcism to the public. Vatican guidelines issued in 2022 warned against sensationalizing the rite, urging bishops to keep the ministry private and pastoral. Critics have accused G. of turning a sacred rite into entertainment, pointing to his livestreamed prayers and viral clips that often blur the line between ministry and spectacle. The archdiocese has faced pressure from both clergy and laity to ensure that exorcisms are conducted with humility and theological rigor.

G.’s media presence has been a double‑edged sword. His 2023 documentary series attracted over 4 million viewers worldwide, and his weekly livestreams regularly topped the platform’s “faith” category. Supporters say he has revived interest in a neglected aspect of Catholic practice and provided comfort to believers who feel haunted. Detractors argue that his fame has invited doubt about the Church’s seriousness on the matter. In a brief statement, Archbishop Aquila said the “media fast” will allow the priest to refocus on the pastoral care of his parish and on training other clergy in the rite, without the distractions of fame.

During the next twelve months, Father Michael will remain active in his parish duties and will assist the diocese’s newly formed Exorcism Advisory Board. He will also mentor younger priests in the proper theological and psychological aspects of the ministry. The archdiocese plans to review its communication policies for all sacramental ministries, a move that could reshape how the Church engages with social media on sensitive topics. Observers will watch whether the fast leads to a quieter, more disciplined approach to exorcism across the United States.