Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

In a recent inquiry addressed to the Register, the question of whether pigs possess souls was raised, alongside an exploration of where Jesus placed Legion, the demons that were possessing the Gerasene demoniac.

The response draws on theological insights to address this complex issue. It begins by quoting St. Anselm: "faith seeks understanding," emphasizing the role of human reason in exploring divine creation and understanding God more deeply.

Two main points are considered in response to the question. The first concerns whether demons can possess something inanimate or if pigs must have souls for possession to occur. The account from Genesis is cited, noting that "God has ordered all things in a fitting array and order," with higher beings having dominion over lower ones. This hierarchy suggests that angels, being immaterial creatures, can influence material entities without destroying their freedom.

The second point examines whether pigs have souls into which demons could be sent. According to Church understanding, a soul is what animates material beings. Humans, animals—including swine—and plants all have souls, though they differ in complexity and capacity. Animals possess more developed souls than plants as they can sense and react to their environment.

Human souls are distinct due to their ability for reasoning and free choice, allowing them independence from the body and immortality after death. Thus, while animals like swine have souls capable of possession by fallen angels such as Legion, only humans have immortal souls.

The explanation concludes by clarifying that during possession, demons do not replace but override the soul's animating power within living beings like swine or humans. This overriding causes bodies to obey demonic will rather than their own innate instincts or desires.

This exploration offers a deeper appreciation for creation's complexity and how spiritual phenomena may interact with physical life forms.