Episode 82: Deadly Faith - The Case of Joan Vollmer

Deliverance is the belief that a person can be spiritually cleansed or freed from demonic oppression — and some Christians believe they have the authority through Christ to carry it out themselves. But what happens when that belief turns dangerous? In this episode, we examine the tragic 1993 case of Joan Vollmer, a woman suffering from hypomania and schizophrenia. After years of mental health struggles and failed treatments, Joan's husband, Ralph, became convinced her condition was the result of demonic influence. Without her knowledge, he arranged for members of their congregation to come to their home and perform a “deliverance.” What followed was a harrowing week of restraint, interrogation, and abuse — and ultimately, Joan's death. This story raises unsettling questions about faith, mental illness, and how spiritual intentions can lead to devastating outcomes. Sometimes, the real danger lies not in demons — but in those who believe they’re fighting them.

 

SOURCES:

Wikipedia – Antwerp, Victoria - Antwerp, Victoria - Wikipedia

Cleveland Clinic – Hypomania - Hypomania: What Is It, Comparison vs Mania, Symptoms & Treatment

Mayo Clinic – Schizoaffective disorder - Schizoaffective disorder - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

Medical News Today – What are the similarities and differences between schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia? – Jenna Fletcher – February 9, 2023 - Schizoaffective disorder vs schizophrenia: Similarities and difference

Above & Beyond Christian Counseling – Demon Oppression or Demon Possession: How Do You Know? – Don Ibbitson - Demon Oppression or Demon Possession: How Do You Know? - Above & Beyond Christian Counseling

The Age – Some strange goings-on in Antwerp – Ian Munro – February 7, 1993

The Age – Charismatics on the rise – Ian Munro and Geoff Strong – February 7, 1993

The Age – When war with the Devil ended in death – Ian Munro – December 4, 1994

The Age – Exorcism declining, cleric tells court – Philip Johnson – November 5, 1994