The Earling Exorcism

In 1928, an exorcism was performed on Anna Ecklund at a Franciscan convent in Earling, Iowa. The ritual lasted 23 days and was documented by Father Theophilus Riesinger. The account was later published with Church approval.

The Subject

Anna Ecklund had exhibited signs of possession since childhood. She could not enter churches, could not tolerate holy water, and knew hidden sins of those around her. By her forties, her condition had become unbearable.

The Exorcism

Father Riesinger performed the exorcism at a convent, where nuns could assist. Anna displayed superhuman strength, levitated, vomited enormous quantities despite not eating, and spoke in multiple voices claiming to be demons.

The Entities

The demons allegedly included Jacob, Anna’s father, who had cursed her for refusing his incestuous advances. Also present was Mina, his mistress, who had bewitched Anna as a child. Multiple other entities manifested.

The Conclusion

After 23 days, on December 23, 1928, the demons departed with terrible cries. Anna immediately returned to normal. She lived peacefully until her death, with no return of symptoms.

Assessment

The Earling case was published with Church approval as “Begone Satan!” It remains one of the most detailed American exorcism accounts and influenced later understanding of possession.