There's questions whether a Christchurch Catholic order will continue, even after being stripped of its authority, over unauthorised exorcisms and abuse.

The Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer's priests have been banned from practicing and told to leave the diocese, after 17 people raised concerns.

Its leaders deny they manipulated and controlled followers and interfered in families' lives.

Massey University religious expert Peter Lineham says losing its license may not stop the order.

He explained it was once a renegade group pulled back into the Church by the Pope, and he wonders if it will go out again into the cold.

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