Archbishop Golka Asks Fr. Ripperger for a Media Fast
The priest has accepted so he can focus more fully on the Doloran Fathers; the Denver archdiocese will review the one-year arrangement afterward.
The Archdiocese of Denver announced on October 20 that Archbishop Golka has asked Father Chad Ripperger to observe a one-year fast from media activity and public speaking. The request followed a meeting devoted to the priest’s ministry and to the Society of the Most Sorrowful Mother, also known as the Doloran Fathers.
The step is intended to allow Father Ripperger to focus more fully on that semi-contemplative community, which serves men and women in spiritual need. The arrangement will be reviewed after one year.
Father Ripperger, 62, was ordained in 1997 for the Priestly Fraternity of Saint Peter. He has exercised faculties in the Archdiocese of Denver since 2017. Over recent years he has become one of the most widely recognized voices in the English-speaking Church on spiritual warfare through books, conference talks, and online videos.
In its statement, the archdiocese thanked him for generous service and asked the faithful to pray for him and for the work of the Doloran Fathers. Father Ripperger has accepted the request.
Ministry Under the Bishop’s Care
The Society of the Most Sorrowful Mother is a semi-contemplative community dedicated to those who suffer spiritual affliction. By withdrawing for a time from the media spotlight, Father Ripperger can give priority to that mission in closer coordination with local Church authority.
The episode unfolds against a wider backdrop of pastoral caution. Cardinal McElroy has raised similar concerns about high-profile exorcists and the public presentation of deliverance ministry. In Catholic discipline, the solemn rite of exorcism is reserved to priests who receive express permission from the diocesan bishop, and teaching on these matters remains subject to the same hierarchical communion.
Many Catholics have found formation and consolation in Father Ripperger’s writings and talks. The archdiocese’s decision does not erase that contribution; it situates it within the ordinary bond of obedience that unites every priest to his bishop. After the year of reduced public engagement, the arrangement will be reassessed in light of the needs of the faithful and of the Doloran community.
The Archdiocese of Denver invited prayer for Father Ripperger as he enters this period of greater silence, and for all who turn to the Church for help against the powers of darkness—help the Church continues to offer under the authority Christ gave to the apostles and their successors.