" There is a power of devils in our air that are seeking to hurt us" May 22, 1692

Increase Mather Returns as the Witchcraft Crisis BuildsWe’re in Boston on Sunday, May 22, 1692, as Reverend Increase Mather preaches at the North Church just eight days after returning from London with a new charter, choosing Psalm 121:8 to mark his “going out” and “coming in.” Drawing on Cotton Mather’s notes, we follow Increase as he warns the congregation that “a power of devils” is in the air seeking harm, yet insists God will protect His people—an unmistakable signal of how deeply the witchcraft crisis has gripped the colony. With fear rising and the hunt accelerating, tomorrow brings a fresh wave of suspects, accusations, and wild allegations, ending with nine more people behind bars.00:00 Welcome and Hosts00:11 Increase Mather Returns00:41 Sermon Warning of Devils01:06 Tomorrow’s Witch Hunt Escalation