Ep 1. Fighting Satan

Our America with Lisa Ling is a documentary series that airs on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) and is hosted by journalist Lisa Ling. The fourth season of the series premiered on May 29, 2014, and the first episode of the season is titled "Fighting Satan."

In this episode, Lisa Ling takes a look at the controversial practice of exorcism in America. She starts by speaking with John Paul Jackson, a pastor who has been performing exorcisms for over 30 years. Jackson tells Ling about his experiences with demonic possession and how he knows when someone is under the control of Satan. He also explains that his goal is not to scare people but to help them.

Ling then travels to Phoenix, Arizona, to meet with Father Gary Thomas, a Catholic priest who has performed exorcisms for the Church. Thomas explains that the Church is very careful about who is authorized to perform exorcisms and that it is a last resort after other treatments have failed. Ling attends one of Thomas' exorcisms and watches as he performs the long and intricate ritual.

Next, Ling speaks with Dr. Richard Gallagher, a psychiatrist who has worked with the Catholic Church to evaluate people who claim to be possessed. Gallagher explains that while he has seen many cases of mental illness, he has also seen cases that he cannot explain and that seem to be supernatural in nature.

Ling also meets with Reverend Bob Larson, a self-proclaimed exorcist who performs exorcisms over the phone and via Skype. Larson tells Ling that he has performed over 20,000 exorcisms and that he receives hundreds of calls and emails every day from people seeking his help. He also explains that he charges for his services because he needs to make a living and that he believes he is doing God's work.

Throughout the episode, Ling raises questions about the legitimacy of exorcism and whether it is a real phenomenon or simply the result of mental illness and suggestion. She speaks with skeptics who believe that exorcism is a dangerous and outdated practice that can do more harm than good. She also speaks with people who have undergone exorcisms and claim to have been cured of ailments that could not be explained by medical science.

Overall, "Fighting Satan" is a thought-provoking episode that explores a fascinating and controversial topic. Ling approaches the subject with an open mind and presents a balanced view of both sides of the debate. With its mix of interviews, footage of exorcisms, and expert commentary, this episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the supernatural or the intersection of religion and science.