The Quickening: Satan and His Dark Forces Within the Vatican

Father Malachi Martin was a man whose warnings have only grown more relevant with time. As a former Jesuit priest, Vatican insider, and exorcist, he spent his later years speaking about the spiritual, geopolitical, and supernatural crises facing the modern world. His insights, drawn from his deep knowledge of the Church’s inner workings and his experiences battling demonic forces, painted a picture of an unfolding struggle between good and evil—one that would shape the future of civilization.

From his discussions of the Third Secret of Fatima to his unsettling accounts of Satan’s infiltration of the Vatican, Martin’s interviews with Art Bell left a lasting impact. He spoke of a coming reckoning, hinting that the Catholic Church, global politics, and even the skies themselves would be battlegrounds in an escalating spiritual war. Now, in 2025, his warnings seem more prescient than ever.

As the Russia-Ukraine war rages on, global tensions rise, and mysterious aerial phenomena continue to appear over New Jersey and beyond, the question arises: are we witnessing the very events Martin cautioned about decades ago? His words, once considered extreme, now seem eerily aligned with unfolding world events. Was he merely a brilliant observer of human nature, or was he warning us about something far more profound—something hidden within the shadows of history and prophecy?

Art Bell’s interview with Father Malachi Martin provides a chilling exploration of exorcism, demonic possession, and the larger struggle between good and evil. Dr. Malachi Martin, a former Jesuit priest, exorcist, and Vatican insider, details his experiences performing thousands of minor exorcisms and hundreds of major ones. He describes demonic possession as a gradual process, where individuals unknowingly cede control of their will and intellect to a malevolent entity. According to Martin, possession is always the work of demons, with Lucifer and Satan being the most powerful among them. He explains that demons seek to corrupt human souls, preventing them from attaining salvation.

The interview looks into the rising intensity of evil in the modern world, which Martin attributes to the “mystery of iniquity”—a force that dulls human consciousness and promotes moral decay. Art Bell brings up the concept of the “quickening,” a rapid acceleration of social chaos, environmental disasters, and inexplicable violence. Martin agrees, asserting that radiation exposure and unseen spiritual forces may be driving humanity toward an apocalyptic confrontation. The discussion shifts to the Antichrist, whom Martin believes will emerge, offering solutions to global crises while accepting worship as a deity. The interview paints a terrifying picture of unseen battles between demonic forces and human souls, with exorcists like Martin standing as the last line of defense. Throughout, the conversation remains a gripping and unnerving exploration of the supernatural, challenging listeners to reconsider the nature of evil in the world.

Father Malachi Martin continues his conversation with Art Bell, getting deeper into the nature of possession, the structure of exorcisms, and the generational aspect of demonic influence. Martin describes a terrifying category of individuals known as the “perfectly possessed,” people who have fully embraced demonic forces and live in complete harmony with them, making them virtually indistinguishable from ordinary individuals. He emphasizes that these individuals, who may hold respectable jobs and social positions, reveal their true nature only under rare circumstances, displaying an eerie and alien presence. These cases, Martin explains, are beyond help, as the possessed have made their choice and no longer resist.

Martin reveals that the number of possessions has surged dramatically since 1975, with an 800 percent increase, and he attributes this to a growing spiritual crisis. He discusses his collaboration with psychiatrists, many of whom, after witnessing true possession, abandon their profession entirely. He estimates that more than 50 percent of cases diagnosed as psychiatric disorders are, in fact, cases of demonic possession. Despite modern medicine’s skepticism, he insists that demonic influence is real and pervasive.

When Bell asks what happens to a demon after an exorcism, Martin clarifies that they return to hell, experiencing intensified suffering as punishment for their failure. However, demons resist this fate and often attempt to prolong their hold on a person or seek alternative hosts. He references biblical accounts, such as demons begging Jesus to send them into a herd of swine, to illustrate this desperate struggle.

The discussion turns to generational possession, in which demonic influence is passed through family lines—not biologically, but through rituals and teachings. Some families, he explains, willingly offer their children to demonic forces, training them in satanic practices. He recounts cases where parents have assigned “familiar spirits” to their children, binding them in spiritual servitude. This phenomenon, he notes, is disturbingly common among old American families with long, established bloodlines.

Bell brings up a chilling story from a caller who experienced sexual assault by an unseen force, unable to move or cry out for help. Martin affirms that such cases are real and often occur in demonic harassment or obsession. He notes that verbalizing prayers or commands is crucial in such encounters, as demons thrive in silence and can exert greater control when a victim is unable to speak. While the mechanics of why audible words hold power remain mysterious, he suggests that vocalization disrupts demonic influence.

Martin explains that exorcisms are not simply a series of prayers but a direct confrontation between the exorcist and the demon. Once the ritual begins, there is no turning back—failure to complete an exorcism can result in the demon attacking the exorcist or other participants. He describes how, within the first 20 minutes of a true exorcism, an overwhelming presence fills the room, making it clear that an external entity is present. The demon will often attempt to intimidate, mock, or reveal personal secrets about those in attendance, trying to break their resolve. Objects may move, violent outbursts can occur, and sometimes, participants are physically harmed.

When Bell asks if exorcisms ever fail, Martin confirms that they do. In such cases, the exorcist suffers a personal cost, as part of them is irreversibly drained. He compares it to the emotional toll a parent experiences in raising children—giving of oneself without ever getting it back. He also notes that exorcists have died from heart attacks or accidents following exorcisms, with demons retaliating even after the ritual has ended.

The conversation turns to whether wealth and power correlate with possession. While Bell assumes that those who have made Faustian bargains tend to be rich and powerful, Martin insists that demonic influence spans all levels of society. Ambition, revenge, or personal desires can lead anyone down this path, from the highest elites to the most obscure individuals. He recounts cases where people sought demonic aid for financial gain, romantic success, or personal power, later realizing too late the price they had to pay.

They also discuss whether faith protects against possession. Martin states that true possession requires consent and cannot occur against one’s will. However, individuals can be harassed, obsessed, and tempted by demonic forces even if they maintain faith. The majority of cases he encounters are not full possessions but rather demonic harassment—persistent disturbances that cause emotional and physical suffering.

Bell then brings on a caller, Eva, who claims she has been tormented by an evil presence, possibly due to a demonic pact made by her mother. Martin advises her to seek help from the Church but expresses concern that many modern clergy do not believe in demonic activity, making it difficult for victims to find proper assistance. He also warns against self-proclaimed spiritual healers, noting that only exorcists with proper authority can truly cast out demons.

Throughout the discussion, Martin emphasizes that demonic influence is far more widespread than most people realize. He warns against practices like channeling, Ouija boards, and transcendental meditation, which he says create openings for demonic forces. Possession, he explains, is not just a rare phenomenon depicted in horror films but an ever-present reality, growing in frequency as society drifts further from faith.

The interview remains unsettling, filled with haunting revelations about the hidden battle between good and evil. Martin’s descriptions of possession, exorcism, and demonic tactics offer a sobering perspective on a realm most would rather ignore.

Art Bell’s interview with Father Malachi Martin was an intense and thought-provoking discussion that covered topics ranging from demonic possession and exorcism to prophecy, spiritual warfare, and the changes occurring in the world. Martin emphasized the dangers of engaging with the occult, particularly through seemingly harmless activities like the Ouija board, which he claimed could act as an open invitation to malevolent entities. He explained that many cases of possession began with such practices, warning that once the door was opened, it was difficult to close. The conversation shifted to the concept of “the quickening,” which Art Bell and Martin described as an increasing prevalence of possessions, spiritual disturbances, and worldwide upheavals since the late 1960s. Martin linked these occurrences to significant events in the Catholic Church, suggesting a period of great turmoil and negative influence that he attributed to Lucifer’s desire to corrupt and destroy humanity.

The discussion also touched on prophecies, including those from the Third Secret of Fatima, which Martin claimed pointed to upcoming chastisements—catastrophic events that would reshape the world but not mark its definitive end. He warned that from late 1996 to the early months of 1997, there would be signs in the skies that would indicate how events would unfold leading up to the year 2000. When pressed about how many would survive these upheavals, Martin suggested that a majority of humanity would persist, though they would suffer greatly, living in conditions that might make them wish for death rather than endure the hardships ahead. This theme of suffering was further explored when discussing topics like natural disasters, radiation, and environmental destruction, which he linked to Lucifer’s attempts to poison human life.

Throughout the interview, Martin recounted chilling cases of exorcisms, including the most harrowing one he ever conducted in 1983 involving a young priest in the Bronx. The case, he revealed, was both physically and spiritually exhausting, leaving a lasting impact on him. He described how exorcisms take a toll on the exorcist, stating that each one drains a piece of their essence, leaving them permanently changed. Martin also acknowledged that some individuals, particularly those who have fully embraced possession, live seemingly normal lives, appearing successful and even loving, but are in fact entirely under the control of demonic forces. He hinted that many people in positions of power, including politicians, might be among them.

Another ominous topic Martin discussed was the “Three Days of Darkness,” a prophecy that foretells a period when the world will be shrouded in complete darkness, during which it will be dangerous to venture outside. While he acknowledged that scientists would likely attempt to offer an astronomical or geophysical explanation, he insisted that this event would have deeply spiritual implications. He also addressed the rising number of priests who no longer believe in hell or demonic entities, arguing that this disbelief only serves to strengthen the influence of malevolent forces. When the topic turned to the moral decay within the Church, Martin did not shy away from condemning the widespread cover-ups of scandals among clergy members. He blamed both a network of corrupt priests and the Church’s fear of scandal for allowing such abuses to persist.

Art Bell also questioned Martin about extraterrestrial life, to which Martin responded cautiously. He admitted that some reported encounters with aliens could be demonic in nature but did not rule out the existence of otherworldly beings. On the subject of remote viewing and psychic abilities, Martin strongly cautioned against engaging in such practices, explaining that they often lead individuals into dangerous spiritual realms where malevolent entities can take advantage of them.

Martin provided insight into the nature of suffering and suicide, explaining that taking one’s own life is considered a grave sin because it represents a rejection of God’s plan. However, he expressed hope that God’s mercy could still reach those who committed such acts in their final moments. When asked about the possibility of salvation for non-Christians, he clarified that while Jesus Christ is the only savior, those who live righteous lives according to their understanding of morality could still receive grace.

The interview ended on a somber but powerful note, with Martin reiterating that the battle between good and evil is intensifying and that spiritual vigilance is more crucial than ever. He invited those struggling with spiritual afflictions to seek out a competent exorcist, emphasizing that the fight against darkness requires faith, discipline, and divine protection. Throughout the conversation, Martin’s unwavering belief in the reality of possession, the dangers of the occult, and the necessity of strong faith painted a chilling portrait of a world in which unseen battles for human souls are constantly raging.

The 1996 interview between Art Bell and Father Malachi Martin covered a wide range of controversial and thought-provoking topics, touching on internal Vatican politics, spiritual crises, and global transformations. Martin, a former Jesuit and Vatican insider, spoke candidly about the power struggles within the Church, particularly the covert battles against Pope John Paul II by members of his own hierarchy. He emphasized that a war was being waged over control of the papacy, which he described as the nerve center of a vast global institution. Martin suggested that a faction of high-ranking Church officials sought to diminish the authority of the papacy and shift governance towards a more consensus-driven model among cardinals and bishops. This, he claimed, was evident in the actions of figures such as Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, whose leadership in Chicago, while politically influential, did not necessarily lead to a flourishing of traditional Catholicism.

The discussion also ventured into broader cultural and moral debates, including doctor-assisted suicide, homosexuality, and transsexuality. Martin held firm to traditional Catholic teachings, arguing that suffering has spiritual value and that supernatural grace offers a path for individuals struggling with their identity. He suggested that spiritual treatments, rather than psychological or medical interventions, could resolve such struggles. The conversation shifted towards an ominous warning he had previously issued—urging people to “keep their eyes to the sky” in anticipation of an impending major event. Martin acknowledged a widespread, almost universal, sense that humanity was undergoing a profound transformation, likening it to passing through a metaphysical “window of opportunity.” He suggested that people across different belief systems shared an instinctive awareness of a major shift, though they could not pinpoint its exact nature.

Martin addressed his personal faith, emphasizing that despite struggles with fear and human weakness, he had never doubted the divinity of Christ or the reality of heaven and hell. He spoke about the nature of fear, distinguishing between a crippling, irrational fear and a healthy respect for divine authority. The conversation then turned to the Pope’s recent endorsement of evolution as “more than just a theory,” which had shocked many Catholics. Martin dismissed the idea of evolution as a proven scientific fact, arguing that the fossil record provided no definitive evidence of transitional species. He contended that Pope John Paul II’s statement was driven by political and ideological considerations, rather than theological necessity. Throughout the discussion, Martin painted a picture of a world in spiritual flux, one in which traditional beliefs were under siege, powerful forces were maneuvering behind the scenes, and humanity was standing at the precipice of an unprecedented shift in consciousness.

In the latter part of Art Bell’s 1996 interview with Father Malachi Martin, the discussion expanded into the Pope’s political role, the Vatican’s internal struggles, and the broader implications of spiritual exploration through remote viewing. Martin emphasized that Pope John Paul II was not only a spiritual leader but also a geopolitical strategist, balancing the interests of global powers while maintaining the Church’s theological doctrines. He suggested that the Pope’s involvement in the fall of the Soviet Union, in collaboration with figures like Ronald Reagan and Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński, demonstrated the extent to which Vatican influence extended beyond religion into global affairs. However, he also acknowledged that political maneuvering often required moral compromises, making it nearly impossible for any leader, including the Pope, to navigate such a world without some degree of sin or moral burden.

The conversation took a turn toward remote viewing when Major Ed Dames, a former military intelligence officer, joined the discussion. Dames described his work with remote viewing, explaining how it was initially developed for military intelligence but later adapted for civilian use. He noted that the practice had profound effects on individuals, often leading to spiritual crises, mental instability, or even a loss of faith. Martin acknowledged the dangers of engaging with what he called the “middle plateau”—a metaphysical space where spiritual forces, both divine and demonic, could influence human consciousness. While Martin was skeptical of practices like channeling and mediumship, he found Dames’ disciplined, methodical approach to remote viewing to be a controlled and potentially legitimate means of accessing hidden knowledge. Despite the risks, he suggested that Dames’ work had a godly nature, distinguishing it from occult practices that could lead to possession or spiritual corruption.

As the interview progressed, the discussion circled back to Vatican affairs, particularly the internal pressures on Pope John Paul II to resign. Martin revealed that a document had been drafted outlining protocols for a Pope’s resignation in cases of severe health decline, dementia, or incapacitation. While John Paul II had not signed it, Martin speculated that the growing influence of liberal-minded factions within the Vatican, as well as powerful external organizations like the Rockefeller and Ford Foundations, were pushing for a more progressive leader. The primary concerns driving this movement were population control, the role of women in the Church, and the question of clerical celibacy. Martin explained that many within the Church hierarchy, as well as influential global figures, believed that a younger, more adaptable Pope was necessary to address issues such as contraception, abortion, and euthanasia. However, he asserted that John Paul II remained staunchly opposed to any changes that would compromise traditional Catholic doctrine.

Throughout the discussion, Martin maintained a sense of urgency, suggesting that the world was undergoing a profound transformation—both politically and spiritually. He reiterated that humanity was passing through a metaphysical “window” where old structures were breaking down, and new paradigms were emerging. He believed that the spiritual battle between good and evil was intensifying, and that individuals engaging in practices like remote viewing or exploring metaphysical realms needed to be extremely cautious. The interview ended on a thought-provoking note, with Martin expressing both admiration and concern for Dames’ work, while also reaffirming his belief that faith, discipline, and divine protection were the ultimate safeguards against deception and spiritual danger.

The 1996 interview between Art Bell and Father Malachi Martin on Coast to Coast AM was a deep and intense conversation that spanned a wide array of controversial and philosophical topics, including birth control, the role of the Catholic Church, exorcism, secret Vatican archives, extraterrestrials, prophecy, and the looming structure of a global financial order. Martin, a former Jesuit and well-known theologian, held firm on his traditionalist views, emphasizing his rejection of abortion at any stage. He also opposed artificial birth control and contraception, insisting that abstinence was the only acceptable method within Catholic doctrine. His perspective on priestly celibacy was similarly rigid, though he acknowledged the mounting pressures from within the Church to allow married priests, particularly in certain regions like Latin America. He argued that allowing marriage would ultimately weaken the unique spiritual connection between priests and their congregations.

On the issue of feminism and the role of women in the Church, Martin recognized historical injustices against women but firmly opposed the idea of female priests, maintaining that only men could reflect the role of Christ as the high priest. When discussing the Vatican’s influence, Martin revealed knowledge of its deep political involvement and financial entanglements, noting how global monetary policy was already shaping the fate of religious institutions. He also alluded to the existence of hidden and controversial Vatican documents, including the so-called “secret archives,” which contain vast amounts of classified material spanning centuries. The discussion veered into esoteric subjects such as Marian apparitions, Fatima, and the prophetic writings of Saint Malachy, which some interpret as predicting the end of the papal lineage.

Perhaps one of the most striking moments came when Martin briefly acknowledged the possibility of extraterrestrial life, stating that he personally believed in life beyond Earth. However, he warned that the human mind could be dangerously affected by the pursuit of knowledge about non-human entities. When pressed on whether Christians should fear contact with extraterrestrials, he suggested that all intelligent life, if it exists, would still fall under the dominion of Christ’s salvation. His responses on supernatural and occult topics, including demonology and exorcism, hinted at hidden spiritual conflicts, some of which he suggested were known to certain Vatican authorities.

Toward the end of the conversation, Martin lamented the changes in society and within the Catholic Church, expressing concern that the modern world was slipping away from its traditional spiritual and moral foundations. He warned of an encroaching “New World Order,” describing a shift toward global governance and financial control that would restrict national sovereignty and, by extension, the autonomy of religious institutions. While he acknowledged the inevitability of these developments, he remained unwavering in his belief that the divine plan, including prophesied events such as the warning of Garabandal, would ultimately triumph.

Father Malachi Martin’s third interview with Art Bell in 1997 continued his gripping discussion on spiritual warfare, exorcism, and the dramatic changes within the Catholic Church. He identified the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) as the moment of radical transformation, describing it as a hurricane of change that led to the abandonment of long-standing traditions, including the mass exodus of religious figures such as nuns who, influenced by psychologists, renounced their vows. Martin lamented how this shift resulted in a decline in faith and a rise in demonic activity, with the number of exorcisms increasing by 800% since the 1970s. He detailed one of the most difficult exorcisms he had performed, which lasted over a year and a half and involved a high-ranking demon of extraordinary power. The possessed individual, a broker from the Northeast, had been deeply involved in a dark occult group. Martin described the horrifying nature of possession, noting how demons specifically target human love, desecrating and corrupting it in every form. He emphasized that demons enter only when invited, but this invitation can be subtle—through participation in occult practices, Ouija boards, or even an unconscious acceptance of evil.

Martin also discussed the concept of perfect possession, explaining that some individuals knowingly make pacts with demonic forces in exchange for worldly success, with some even recognizing their state but remaining content in their choices. He spoke of having encountered such people in Manhattan and described his ability to sense the presence of demons with them. The conversation turned to the idea of programming and mind control, referencing Nazi-era experiments and modern methods that create what he called “Manchurian Candidates,” individuals conditioned through deeply ingrained programming to act without conscious awareness. Martin confirmed that spiritual forces can work through various religious traditions, including Native American shamans and non-Catholic Christian ministers, acknowledging that divine power operates beyond denominational lines.

The discussion then shifted to apocalyptic prophecies, particularly the Three Days of Darkness, which he framed as a divine chastisement for the world’s moral decay. According to Martin, this event, rooted in private revelations from apparitions like those at La Salette and Fatima, would mark the final struggle between good and evil. The danger of these days, he explained, was spiritual rather than merely civil or natural, warning that demons would make their last desperate attempt to take control of human souls. Throughout the interview, Martin painted a picture of a world in spiritual crisis, urging vigilance, prayer, and unwavering faith in the face of increasing demonic activity.

Father Martin asserted that the Antichrist was already alive but not yet active in his full role, explaining that his emergence would be tied to a global crisis requiring an ultimate savior figure. He looked into the origins of demons, describing them as fallen angels who rejected God’s plan, particularly Lucifer, who refused to serve a being with a mortal body—Jesus Christ. This rebellion led to an ongoing war for the souls of humanity, a conflict that continues to play out in both physical and spiritual realms. The conversation also touched upon why God allows suffering, with Martin stating that free will is a central tenet of divine creation, allowing people to choose allegiance to God or to reject Him. He elaborated on the deception of evil forces, particularly through modern psychic practices such as channeling and remote viewing, which he claimed were tied to demonic influence. One of the most shocking revelations came when Martin confirmed that satanic rituals had taken place at the Vatican and that there were individuals within the Church hierarchy involved in the veneration of Lucifer. He warned that corruption within the institution was reaching a critical point, stating that only Christ Himself could save the Church from complete collapse. When discussing Art Bell’s concept of “the quickening”—the rapid acceleration of global events in all areas of human life—Martin agreed that the world was indeed speeding toward a pivotal moment. He suggested that people should pay close attention to upcoming events in Rome, hinting at significant developments within the Vatican that could indicate the progression of these end-times prophecies. Another key topic was the role of extraterrestrial life and the Vatican’s involvement in deep space monitoring, with Martin suggesting that high-ranking Church officials were aware of something significant approaching Earth.

Throughout the interview, he maintained that faith, prayer, and true Christian love were the greatest weapons against the growing tide of darkness. As the discussion drew to a close, Martin reaffirmed that despite the Church’s organizational decline, the true faith would persist, carried by those devoted to God’s will, even if it meant existing as an underground movement. The conversation left listeners with a deep sense of urgency, reinforcing the notion that a great spiritual and geopolitical shift was on the horizon.

Father Malachi Martin’s fourth interview with Art Bell in 1997 covered a wide range of topics, from his personal background and theological training to esoteric subjects like the Dead Sea Scrolls, biblical codes, and even extraterrestrial phenomena. Martin began by recounting his early life in Ireland and his decision to join the Jesuit order in 1939, just as World War II erupted. His rigorous academic journey led him to specialize in Semitic languages, Oriental art, archaeology, and paleography, particularly in relation to the Dead Sea Scrolls. His expertise eventually brought him to the Vatican, where he worked closely with Pope John XXIII and was involved in the Second Vatican Council. However, Martin expressed discontent with the Church’s modernization efforts, particularly regarding the liturgy and the way scripture was being reinterpreted through the lens of higher criticism. His ideological disagreements ultimately led him to request release from the Jesuit order in 1964, though he retained his priestly status with the special permission of Pope Paul VI, allowing him to operate independently without being under the authority of a bishop.

During the interview, Martin also discussed his concerns about the spiritual state of the Catholic Church, warning that it had been infiltrated by dark forces, a belief reinforced by Paul VI’s famous statement that “the smoke of Satan” had entered the Church. He spoke about his continued priestly role, clarifying that despite being laicized in administrative terms, he remained a priest and still adhered to his vow of celibacy.

The conversation took a more mysterious turn when Bell referenced Martin’s previous prediction to “watch the skies” in the spring of 1997. This led to a discussion about the Phoenix Lights, a massive UFO sighting over Arizona that year, which Martin had not yet heard about but which he suggested could be a harbinger of something monumental. The interview then transitioned into a deep exploration of the Dead Sea Scrolls. Martin dismissed claims that the Vatican or Jewish scholars had suppressed revelatory information from the scrolls, asserting that all findings were being published slowly due to the meticulous process of translation. However, he did mention a revolutionary discovery—a small fragment dating to around AD 45–50 that contained a quotation from the Gospel of Mark, which suggested that the gospel circulated much earlier than previously believed. He also speculated that future archaeological discoveries in the dry soil of Israel might yield even older biblical texts that could transform our understanding of religious history.

The final part of the interview touched on the emerging topic of Bible codes, particularly the work of Michael Drosnin and Stan Tenen, who claimed to have uncovered hidden messages and geometric patterns embedded in ancient biblical texts. Martin acknowledged the intriguing nature of such research but remained cautious about its implications, emphasizing that any legitimate findings should align with established theology. Martin discussed the concept of Gematria, an ancient Jewish mystical system that assigns numerical values to letters and words, allowing for deeper, often hidden meanings in sacred texts. While acknowledging its significance as a form of confirmation of known events, he dismissed the idea that it could be used as a predictive tool or a method of divine revelation. Bell brought up the controversial “Bible Codes,” particularly the claims made by Michael Drosnin that hidden messages in the Hebrew Bible could predict future events. Martin expressed skepticism, asserting that while mystical interpretations of scripture had long existed, true faith did not require mathematical decoding.

The discussion shifted to Art Bell’s upcoming visit to the Vatican, prompting Martin to hint at the vast and mysterious archives hidden beneath Rome. He described an underground network of secret documents stretching seven miles, accessible only through controlled lighting systems that activated as one moved through the corridors. He suggested that with the right connections, Bell might be able to glimpse these archives, reinforcing the notion that the Vatican held knowledge far beyond what was publicly disclosed.

From there, the conversation returned to the topic of possession, exorcism, and the power of dark forces. Martin explained that possession occurred in stages and was never inflicted against a person’s will; there had to be an initial consent, however small. He differentiated between people who were “naughty”—engaging in immoral or criminal behavior—and those who were truly possessed, who exhibited a loss of free will and an inability to love or desire good. He shocked Bell by estimating that around ten million Americans were likely in a state of “perfect possession,” meaning they had fully surrendered to demonic influence. These individuals, he claimed, were often in positions of power and authority, shaping policies and decisions at high levels. He recounted instances in bureaucracies where individuals, despite their secular backgrounds, instinctively recognized the presence of an evil force and worked to remove such people from influence.

Martin made a striking distinction between Lucifer and Satan, describing Lucifer as the “prince of this world” with dominion over human affairs, while Satan operated differently. He suggested that dark forces were actively spreading a sense of emptiness and despair among people, leading them into spiritual vulnerability. This, he argued, accounted for the widespread sense of dissatisfaction and disconnection many people felt, even in times of personal stability.

The discussion then veered into magic and the supernatural, as Bell asked whether real magic—such as the kind depicted in films like The Craft—could manifest in the physical world. Martin confirmed that under certain conditions, magic could be real and effective, provided the person casting spells had made a pact with demonic entities. He emphasized that protection against such forces required adherence to moral law and a connection to God. He warned that practices like using Ouija boards, engaging in black Wicca, or attempting psychic experiments could lead individuals into dangerous territory, opening them to spiritual attack.

Bell, fascinated by Martin’s experiences with exorcism, asked about the process. Martin described exorcism as a direct confrontation between an exorcist and a possessing demon, involving a battle of wills rather than simply reciting prayers. The goal was to force the demon to reveal its name and origins and ultimately submit to being cast out. However, he noted that individuals in a state of “perfect possession” could not be exorcised because they had willingly given themselves over to the demonic. Unlike those suffering from partial possession, who sought help, the perfectly possessed had no interest in being freed.

He described the phenomenon of spiritual oppression, where people experienced unexplainable feelings of despair, emptiness, and dissatisfaction despite having no obvious external struggles. These, he claimed, were signs of demonic influence at work.

The interview took an interactive turn as Bell opened a phone line for atheists and practitioners of the occult to call in. One caller, a self-identified atheist, struggled with the Christian concept of a loving God who would condemn non-believers to eternal punishment. Martin provided a nuanced response, asserting that God did not arbitrarily send people to hell but rather respected free will; those who lived morally and sought truth would not face divine wrath. Another caller, identifying as a Wiccan, questioned whether the decline of traditional religious structures had contributed to the chaos in the world. Martin agreed, lamenting that the Catholic Church’s abandonment of its traditions had left a spiritual vacuum.

In Art Bell’s fourth interview with Father Malachi Martin in 1997, a vast range of topics were explored, touching on the paranormal, demonic activity, the Catholic Church, and esoteric knowledge. The discussion began with a conversation on dream weaving, which was described as a method of sending negative spiritual energy to individuals while they sleep, leaving them vulnerable to manipulation, paranoia, and even illness. Father Martin warned that such practices, often used by those dabbling in the occult or New Age movements, were dangerous because they invited forces beyond human comprehension. He also noted an increase in minor demonic entities, or “imps,” which he attributed to a broader spiritual upheaval that coincided with the weakening of Catholic traditions.

The conversation took a darker turn as a caller, identifying as a vampire, claimed the Catholic Church was secretly involved in vampirism. While Father Martin was aware of groups studying vampiric practices, he expressed skepticism regarding the Church’s official involvement. However, he acknowledged the growing corruption and financial settlements within the Church related to clergy abuse, stating that nearly a billion dollars had been paid out by 1985 to cover such scandals. Art Bell pressed him on why so much evil seemed to have infiltrated the Church, to which Martin admitted that a “plague” had descended upon it, possibly linked to a broader, more insidious spiritual corruption.

Another segment explored encounters with non-human entities, with one caller recounting a shamanic trance in which a supernatural bird appeared to drain his life energy. Father Martin warned against engaging in shamanism, stating that it opened doorways to spiritual deception. He stressed that many experiences that seemed benign or enlightening could actually be demonic illusions, particularly when people attempted to communicate with deceased loved ones. He explained that demonic entities could masquerade as the spirits of the dead, tricking the living into trusting them.

The discussion then shifted to individuals suffering from spiritual obsession or demonic oppression. A caller recounted a terrifying experience with a vampire-like entity that left him with a lifelong sexual compulsion, which Father Martin attributed to demonic influence and recommended seeking an exorcist for relief. Another caller, who had transferred her mother’s pain onto herself before her mother’s death, was told that such acts, though well-intentioned, were spiritually dangerous because they interfered with divine will. Martin emphasized that true healing could only come through the grace of God, not through personal sacrifices made outside of divine authority.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing moments in the interview came when Father Martin spoke about the Vatican’s interest in astronomy. He suggested that the Vatican’s observatories, including their controversial facility on Mount Graham in Arizona, were linked to secret knowledge concerning celestial events with theological implications. While he avoided direct statements, he hinted that some Vatican officials were looking for astronomical confirmations of prophecies related to the future of the Church and the world.

The conversation also revisited the topic of pre-human entities mentioned in Genesis, specifically the Nephilim and the “sons of God.” Martin acknowledged the presence of mysterious beings in early biblical texts but emphasized that humanity lacked the language to fully describe them. When asked whether UFOs and alien encounters were linked to demonic activity, he suggested that many such phenomena could indeed be deceptive, part of the same spiritual warfare afflicting the world.

The interview concluded with a reflection on the suffering of children, justice, and the mystery of evil. Father Martin expressed deep sorrow over the abuse and suffering of innocents, admitting that some aspects of divine justice and the existence of evil remained beyond human comprehension. He reiterated that the world had undergone a great spiritual battle since the dawn of creation and that humanity was living in a reconstructed cosmos after a primordial war between God and the rebellious angels. Ultimately, he maintained that the only true refuge was in faith and the divine protection of Christ.

The wide-ranging discussion reflected Father Martin’s deep belief that the modern world was experiencing an unprecedented spiritual crisis, with demonic activity on the rise, corruption in religious institutions, and increasing occult influences. His warnings about the dangers of New Age practices, shamanism, and vampirism painted a picture of a world teetering on the edge of a supernatural struggle, with humanity caught in the middle, often unaware of the forces at play.

In Art Bell’s fifth interview with Father Malachi Martin in 1997, they looked into a wide array of topics, ranging from astrology in the Vatican to the terrifying realities of exorcism. The conversation began with Bell recounting his trip to the Vatican and his surprise at finding a globe inside the Sistine Chapel that displayed all twelve zodiac signs. This led to a discussion about how, historically, several popes consulted astrologers for guidance, a fact that seemed paradoxical given the Catholic Church’s modern stance against astrology. Father Martin explained that astrology was once seen as a tool under God’s domain, and popes relied on astrologers to interpret the signs as divine messages rather than independent cosmic forces. However, as astrology drifted from religious interpretations to secular and occult associations, the Church distanced itself from the practice.

The conversation then shifted to Bell’s deeply personal experience visiting Jerusalem and Bethlehem, where he described an indescribable presence that overwhelmed him with awe. Martin agreed that certain places held an unexplainable power that words failed to capture. Their discussion soon moved to the controversial appearance of Martin’s book, Hostage to the Devil, on 60 Minutes, which was linked to a psychiatrist accused of inducing multiple personalities in a patient through hypnosis. This case led to Martin warning about the dangers of unauthorized exorcisms. He explained that exorcism is not simply a matter of prayer but a direct confrontation with a demonic intelligence, which, if mishandled, could lead to possession of the exorcist himself. He expressed deep concern for the psychiatrist involved, as attempting an exorcism without proper authority and divine protection was extremely dangerous.

Martin elaborated on the nature of possession, differentiating between those who were demonically afflicted and the “perfectly possessed.” Unlike typical cases requiring exorcism, perfectly possessed individuals willingly and fully surrender their will to demonic forces. They often appear successful, influential, and outwardly normal but operate with a malevolent consciousness that recognizes those who oppose them. Bell, unsettled, admitted he sometimes feared that his own rapid career success might have unknowingly come at a spiritual cost, prompting Martin to assure him that perfect possession required full conscious consent.

Their talk veered into unsettling territory when Bell recounted an interview with a self-proclaimed Satanist named Harlot, whose ex-husband had murdered their child. Even more chilling, she claimed to have ensured her child would accompany her to hell. Martin affirmed that such cases existed, where children, through parental involvement, could be subjected to demonic influences, though the final judgment was always in God’s hands. Bell struggled with the idea that an innocent child could be damned, but Martin pointed to real cases where young children exhibited an eerie, unnatural willfulness beyond their years.

The discussion expanded into near-death experiences, with Bell introducing a British study documenting cases where people reported being dragged toward hell rather than the commonly reported tunnel of light. Martin confirmed that such negative near-death experiences were real and often linked to unresolved spiritual corruption. He referenced cases where damned souls had spoken through demons during exorcisms, reinforcing the terrifying reality of hell. The interview concluded with Martin describing the physical and psychological toll exorcisms took on young priests, many of whom became physically ill or even lost control of their bodily functions upon witnessing true demonic manifestations. When Bell asked whether certain cities harbored more cases of possession, Martin hesitated but acknowledged that there were indeed geographic hotspots where demonic activity was disproportionately high.

Father Martin noted that certain locations, such as Louisville, Kentucky, and Vancouver, Canada, seemed to be hotspots for diabolic activity, though he emphasized that possession itself appeared to be random, affecting individuals across all demographics.

Father Martin described the intense hatred demons harbor toward human love and marriage. He explained that during exorcisms, there was often an extreme contempt for anything associated with love, a factor that deeply unsettled even the most experienced exorcists. He also discussed the unique challenges of celibacy in the priesthood, explaining that it was either embraced as a positive state or became an unbearable burden.

A significant portion of the conversation revolved around psychic phenomena and their potential connection to demonic influence. Father Martin acknowledged that true psychic abilities existed but warned that they could lead individuals onto a dangerous “middle plateau” where demonic forces could manipulate them. He referenced the work of remote viewers such as Major Ed Dames, indicating that exploring such abilities could be perilous.

One of the most striking moments came when Father Martin spoke about the Third Secret of Fatima, which he had read but was bound by oath not to reveal. He hinted that the secret warned of a global reckoning that would be undeniable and affect everyone on Earth. When pressed on a timeline, he cryptically stated that the events were not 200 years away, nor 50, nor even 20. This ominous forecast, combined with his belief that evil was growing stronger, contributed to a sense of urgency and foreboding throughout the interview.

The conversation also touched on broader societal issues, including rising crime rates and inexplicable acts of violence. Father Martin believed that an escalating battle between good and evil was manifesting in the modern world, leading to senseless crimes and widespread despair. He suggested that a significant portion of those imprisoned for violent offenses were likely under some form of demonic influence.

Throughout the interview, callers shared their own encounters with dark forces, including disturbing paranormal experiences and potential possessions. Father Martin provided guidance, often recommending prayer, exorcism, and consecration to the Virgin Mary as means of protection. He warned of the dangers of involvement in satanic rituals, noting that intergenerational curses and demonic pacts could deeply affect individuals and their families.

In Art Bell’s sixth interview with Father Malachi Martin in 1998, the discussion touched on a range of disturbing topics, including the brutal murder of Father Alfred Kunz, the rise of satanic influence, the increasing number of demonic possessions, and troubling events within the Vatican. Father Martin detailed how Father Kunz, a parish priest and exorcist, was found murdered in a ritualistic manner, with his throat cut from ear to ear. Authorities, he noted, were withholding key details, likely due to the satanic implications of the crime. Martin strongly suggested that Kunz’s murder was connected to his work exposing satanic covens and demonic activity, emphasizing that such attacks on exorcists were not isolated incidents.

He spoke of children as young as six who were already deeply affected by malevolent forces and noted that individuals were increasingly coming forward, confessing that they had made pacts with the devil for wealth, power, or love—only to find themselves ensnared by forces they could not control. Bell and Martin then discussed the growing presence of satanic influence among the educated elite, including doctors, lawyers, and even priests, who engaged in occult practices while leading seemingly normal lives. Martin explained that the appeal of Luciferian worship lay in the intoxicating combination of power, sexual gratification, and intellectual stimulation. He recounted instances where people had watched or listened to exorcisms and subsequently found themselves drawn into demonic influence, describing it as a kind of “infection” that could spread through fascination alone.

The conversation took a particularly dark turn when Bell brought up recent events within the Vatican. Just hours before the interview, a member of the Pope’s Swiss Guard had allegedly murdered his commander and the commander’s wife before turning the gun on himself. Martin suggested that such an event could not have occurred without deep-rooted demonic influence and pointed to Pope John Paul II’s controversial ecumenical efforts as a possible contributing factor. He criticized the Pope for engaging in interfaith gestures, such as meeting with voodoo priests in Haiti and participating in non-Catholic rituals, actions he believed opened spiritual cracks through which satanic forces could enter.

Martin argued that these events signaled a crisis within the Church, predicting that the institutional Catholic Church would collapse and be forced underground before experiencing a kind of resurrection. As the interview concluded, Bell and Martin reflected on the growing darkness in the world, speculating about the arrival of the Antichrist. Martin explained that the Antichrist was already alive but had not yet begun his public work. He outlined three key signs of his emergence: humanity facing unsolvable crises, the Antichrist providing miraculous solutions, and his eventual demand for worship. While he did not suggest that any current world leader fit this role, he acknowledged that society’s increasing tolerance for immorality and spiritual corruption set the stage for such a figure to rise. The interview left listeners with a chilling impression of a world in which demonic forces were actively working to undermine human souls, infiltrate institutions, and prepare the way for ultimate deception.

The discussion took a dramatic turn when Bell brought up Monsignor Corrado Balducci’s recent public statements about extraterrestrial contact. Balducci, a Vatican theologian close to the Pope, had appeared on Italian television multiple times, asserting that extraterrestrial encounters were real and that the Vatican was gathering reports from its embassies worldwide. Notably, he insisted that these encounters were not demonic, not psychological disorders, and not due to entity attachments, but rather deserved serious study. Martin responded cautiously, acknowledging Balducci as a serious figure and agreeing that the topic of extraterrestrial life was volatile—like nitroglycerin, ready to explode. He suggested that without government disclosure of actual evidence, any discussion remained speculative. However, he confirmed that the Vatican had a vested interest in the subject, particularly in light of its theological implications. The conversation also touched on the Vatican’s powerful astronomical research efforts, including its observatory on Mount Graham, Arizona, which Martin implied might be searching for more than just planetary phenomena.

If rational, technologically advanced beings were discovered beyond Earth, it would challenge core Christian doctrine, particularly the unique role of Jesus Christ. The church had once faced a theological crisis when Columbus discovered the New World, revealing millions of people who had never heard of the Gospel. Similarly, if extraterrestrial beings existed and were unacquainted with Christ, theological questions would arise: Do they have souls? Were they part of Christ’s salvation? Would they need conversion? Martin suggested that the Church was wholly unprepared for such a revelation. He also warned that official confirmation of extraterrestrial existence by governments would be the most significant crisis in Church history—greater than any past schism or theological upheaval.

Martin suggested that powerful forces, possibly within the Vatican, were suppressing information related to Fatima’s Third Secret, which he claimed outlined a crisis of faith and apostasy at the highest levels of the Church. While he could not reveal details due to his oath, he confirmed that it was a dire warning about the future.

As the interview progressed, Bell raised the possibility of scientific advancements like cloning, referencing rumors that DNA from the Shroud of Turin could be used to clone Christ. Martin dismissed the idea, explaining that while cloning might recreate a biological form, it would not recreate the divine nature of Christ. The conversation then shifted toward catastrophic global changes, including environmental disasters and social breakdowns. Martin speculated that global instability, including economic and technological disruptions, could lead to the imposition of martial law and a new form of global governance.

In the latter part of the interview, listeners called in with personal stories and theological questions. One woman recounted traumatic childhood memories of being taken to satanic rituals in the Mojave Desert, where she witnessed a baby being sacrificed. Martin did not dismiss her experience, confirming that such rituals were real and that satanic cults used the bones of infants in ceremonies. He advised her to seek healing through faith rather than conventional therapy, which he believed could not fully address spiritual wounds. Other callers asked about Catholic doctrine, including the nature of the Holy Spirit and the role of Mary as co-redemptrix. Martin reaffirmed traditional Catholic teachings, clarifying that while Mary played a significant role in salvation history, only Christ was the sole redeemer.

In Art Bell’s seventh interview with Father Malachi Martin in 1998, Martin, a former Jesuit and Vatican insider, delivered an alarming critique of the state of the Catholic Church, arguing that it had irreversibly drifted from its traditional doctrine. He contended that since the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), the Church had undergone a significant theological shift, diluting its core teachings and embracing modernization to the point of losing its distinct identity. According to Martin, this had led to a crisis of faith, with the majority of Catholics unknowingly adhering to beliefs contrary to traditional Catholicism. He described a church in decline, with dwindling attendance and a loss of moral authority, stating that its influence in shaping social and political matters had become negligible. He even suggested that the true Catholic faith was being forced underground, practiced in secret by a small but devoted remnant.

Martin pointed to structural changes within the Church, such as the shift from papal supremacy to a more collegial model of leadership, as a key factor in its disintegration. He claimed that the Vatican itself had been infiltrated by forces aiming to subvert its authority, including high-ranking officials who had compromised with both communism and modern secular values. He also implicated figures like Cardinal Agostino Casaroli, whom he suggested had played a crucial role in steering the Church away from its traditional foundations.

A particularly striking part of the conversation revolved around Martin’s knowledge of the Third Secret of Fatima. He confirmed that he had read the secret in 1960 under oath and, while refusing to disclose its full content, he strongly hinted that its contents were more catastrophic than what had been speculated. When Bell read a version of the alleged Third Secret—which described a global cataclysm, war, and the corruption of the Church—Martin responded that while it contained some elements of truth, the most central and terrifying aspect was missing. He expressed deep concern about the Vatican’s suppression of the secret, suggesting that its release could potentially cause mass hysteria and destabilize the faith of many believers.

The discussion suggests that the Vatican has long been aware of an impending global crisis that could threaten the Church and humanity itself. When pressed by Bell, Father Martin acknowledges that the contents of the Third Secret are even more terrifying than the already dire prophecies attributed to Fatima. He describes it as more than just a series of natural disasters; rather, it is something that could shake the very foundations of faith and civilization.

A key aspect of the interview is the Church’s role in the formation of a one-world government. Father Martin argues that the Vatican, particularly under Pope John Paul II, had actively aligned itself with global governance efforts, a departure from earlier Catholic doctrine that rejected secular rule. He asserts that high-ranking Church officials, including the papacy, have deliberately positioned the Church within international political structures, such as the United Nations and the European Union, in preparation for this new order. While this may be seen as pragmatic, Martin hints that darker forces may be at play behind the scenes, suggesting that Satan himself has infiltrated the highest levels of the Church’s hierarchy.

The conversation takes a more personal turn when callers share their own spiritual experiences. One caller describes a vision of an unholy trinity emerging from Europe, which Martin acknowledges as aligning with certain theological perspectives. Another caller recounts a near-death experience that involved a powerful sensation of joy and transcendence, which Martin interprets as an authentic spiritual experience from God. Throughout the interview, he repeatedly advises people to cultivate their relationship with their guardian angels, emphasizing the role of divine guidance in navigating the turmoil of the modern world.

In a moment of candor, when asked if he would ever reveal the Third Secret, Father Martin admits that he might if there were a total collapse at the Vatican’s center. His ominous tone suggests that such a crisis was not only possible but, in his view, inevitable.

Throughout the interview, Martin’s words are heavy with warning and urgency, painting a picture of a world on the brink of a spiritual and geopolitical reckoning. His refusal to fully disclose the Third Secret of Fatima only deepens the sense of foreboding that permeates the conversation, leaving listeners to speculate about what the Vatican has been hiding for decades and what role the Church might play in the unfolding global transformation.

The echoes of Father Malachi Martin’s warnings can still be heard today, resonating through the turmoil of war, the crisis within the Church, and the unexplained disturbances in the skies. His insights into the Third Secret of Fatima, the rise of demonic influence, and the Vatican’s knowledge of impending global events remain as chilling as they were when first spoken.

Now, as 2025 unfolds, we see a world in conflict, with Russia and Ukraine at the heart of a global power struggle, while America grapples with a surge in unexplained aerial phenomena. The Vatican, too, faces internal upheaval and declining influence, just as Martin predicted. Are these merely geopolitical coincidences, or are they pieces of a larger, more ominous puzzle—one that leads to the “reckoning” he refused to reveal in full?

Whether one views Martin as a prophet, a scholar, or a controversial figure, his warnings demand attention. If his predictions hold any truth, then the world is now at a crossroads—one where faith, civilization, and even reality itself may be tested in ways we have yet to comprehend.