The Demon Knew His Sins—Then Something Changed

Dr. Dan Schneider was assisting during an exorcism when something happened that stopped the session.

What happened next—and what changed when one of the men returned to the room—offers a remarkable way of looking at something familiar in the Catholic faith.

It also raises a much deeper question: When our sins begin to define us, is that how God sees us?

This story may change the way you see what is waiting for you when you come home to the Father.

References & Further Listening

The Shawn Ryan Show — Episode #224
Dan Schneider — U.S. Army Attack Helicopter Pilot Turned Exorcist Assistant
Released August 4, 2025

The discussion referenced in this episode begins at approximately 17:15, with the story of the trainee priest and Confession beginning around 17:36. Schneider's discussion of the demon no longer recognizing the priest after Confession, followed by his explanation of sin as a "pattern break," begins around 17:56.

Official episode:
https://shawnryanshow.com/blogs/the-shawn-ryan-show/srs-224-dan-schneider-u-s-army-attack-helicopter-pilot-turned-exorcist

Catechism of the Catholic Church, §1468

"The whole power of the sacrament of Penance consists in restoring us to God's grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship."

See also CCC §1465, which describes the priest in the Sacrament of Penance as a sign of "the Father who awaits the prodigal son and welcomes him on his return."