The Rise of Santa Muerte Worship and Demon Exorcism in Mexico

Across Mexico, millions of devout people are cutting ties with the Catholic Church and turning their faith toward the patron saint of outcasts and personification of death known as Santa Muerte. Many religious leaders believe that this new religious movement is causing more violence in the country’s streets and leading to the devil possessing people’s souls.

To understand the link between the cult of Santa Muerte and modern-day exorcisms, VICE travels to Mexico City to meet pastor Hugo Alverez, who conducts weekly exorcism ceremonies in his community, as well as people who believe they’ve been possessed.