A Catholic priest has been removed from his role as an exorcist after making remarks linking UFOs to demons.

Monsignor Stephen Rossetti, a well-known exorcist in Washington, D.C., was relieved of his duties by Cardinal Robert McElroy, the Archbishop of Washington, D.C., after saying in a May 29 video that “many, if not most,” UFO sightings could be explained as demonic activity.

McElroy took action on June 3 and said the comments “gravely undermined” official Catholic teaching on demons and exorcism, prompting the archdiocese to also cut ties with his ministry center.

Rossetti later said he was saddened by the decision and apologised, pledging to remain obedient to Church doctrine.

This is a developing story. More to follow.