Interview with Keith Johnson, Demonologist
Thursday November 29, 2007 8:08 AM
I recently sat down with Keith Johnson, noted demonologist and cofounder of New England Anomalies Research.
Emily: What does it mean to be a demonologist?
Keith: A demonologist is essentially someone who makes a study of the activity, nature and history of demons, and is at least somewhat skilled in the practical application of this knowledge to apply this knowledge, hopefully in a positive aspect — i.e. in the protection of self and others.
Emily: Your twin brother Carl is also a demonologist. How did it come to be that you are both doing what you're doing?
Keith: Carl and I both grew up in a house in which some paranormal phenomena would occasionally take place, which fueled our interest in paranormal study and exploration. In the early 1970s, when we were teenagers, we attended a lecture given by pioneer paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren at Rhode Island College, and afterwards developed a lifelong friendship with them. Ed Warren was also a lay demonologist, which greatly influenced us. Carl and I were also invited to join a paranormal research organization at RIC, known as Parapsychology Investigation and Research Organization (P.I.R.O), which was the first official group of its kind we ever members of. Our first major investigation turned out to be a case of demonic infestation.
Emily: When did you found New England Anomalies Research and what is its purpose?
Keith: Sandra and I founded New England Anomalies Research in October of 2004. We had previously been members of The Atlantic Paranormal Society (TAPS). Carl also joined with us, as well as a few other former members of TAPS. The reason we branched off and founded NEAR was because, with the advent of the new TV show "Ghost Hunters" and the heavy schedule involved with this show, it became increasingly difficult to focus on individual client cases, especially those of a confidential and sometime even demonic nature. We still continue to occasionally assist TAPS and other groups such as New England Paranormal as consulting demonologists.
Emily: What do you think about the exposure that demonology has received via paranormal television shows?
Keith: Demonology is indeed receiving more and more exposure in the media. The downside of this is that a great deal of it is sensationalized. However, on a positive note, the reality that the demonic realm is indeed a reality is receiving greater awareness. People who genuinely need assistance with demonic disturbances are finding out that they are no longer alone in their situations, and that there are some reliable sources to turn to for help.
Comments (2)
First case turned out to be demonic infestation? What a welcome into the field!
Posted by George | November 29, 2007 11:27 AM
Posted on November 29, 2007 11:27
I understand that keith johnson is doing a "ghost hunting" class in sandwich massachusetts. my mom and i signed up for it because we both actually watch Ghost Hunters every wednesday! the coolest thing that could ever happen would be for Jason, Grant, and the rest of the TAPS team to join Keith... that would be the best day of my life.... this is scheduled for april 25th... i think
Posted by Paige | April 7, 2008 5:11 PM
Posted on April 7, 2008 17:11