Sance Sanse Espiritismo Puertorico

ESPIRITISMO DEL SANCE From the blog http://sansespiritismo.blogspot.it/

THE GREAT DAY STAR OF GOD BONDYE

John 8:12 "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world." Matthew 4:16 "The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned." Matthew 17:2 "His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light." John 12:35-36 "Then Jesus told them, "You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going. Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light." “But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing in his wings; Malachi 4:2. Trece mil rayos tiene el sol, trece mil rayos tiene la luna, trece mil veces sean arrepentidos los enemigos que tengo yo” Thirteen thousand rays of the Sun, Thirteen thousand rays of the

Moon, Thirteen thousand times shall my enemies come humbled and repented before me.

ORACION DE LOS TRECE RAYOS DEL SOL 1. A la una, esta el sol mas alto que la luna. 2. A las dos, tablas de Moisés en que escribe nuestro señor Jesucristo. 3. A las tres, los tres patriarcas. 4. A las cuatro, las cuatro llagas de nuestro Señor. 5. A las cinco, las cinco puntas de la Santa Estrella. 6. A las seis los seis cirios que alumbraron Galilea. 7. A las siete los siete dolores que sufrió María Santísima por su hijo. 8. A las ocho todas las puertas se alzan con las ocho del paraíso. 9. A las nueve mírese amigo menos nueve enemigos. 10. A las diez los diez mandamientos guardare. 11. A las once las once mil vírgenes me acompañaran y me guardaran y me guiaran de todo mal camino o peligro. 12. A las doce los doce apóstoles me acompañaran por mi camino. 13. A las trece Miguel ato a Satanás, no me tocará ni por delante ni por detrás.

PRAYER TO THE 13 RAYS OF THE SUN 1. At 1:00 the Sun is Higher than the Moon. 2. At 2:00, the two slates of Moses written by the fire of the hand of our lord Jesus Christ. 3. At 3:00, the three Patriarchs. 4. At 4:00, the four blessed wounds of the Son. 5. At 5:00, the blessed points of the star, in which I feel his love. 6. At 6:00, the six candles which gave light to Galilee.

7. At 7:00, the seven sorrows the blessed mother suffered for her son. 8. At 8:00, the incense will clear my mind. 9. At 9:00, look deep within yourself, and nine enemies less you shall have. 10. At 10:00, guard the ten commandments. 11. At 11:00, the Eleven Thousand Virgins will be with me and guide me safely through the treacherous dangerous paths. 12. At 12:00 the twelve Apostles will accompany me along my way. 13. At the 13:00 hour Michael Imprisoned Satan you will not touch me from any direction. And for the last one I will find peace. Amen.

GRAN SIMBI DLO "GLO"

SIMBI REY DEL AGUA Gran Simbi Glo "Simbi Dlo" also known as Gran Rey Molinu, Rey Molina or simply Simbi Rey del Agua "Simbi D'l'eau" is the head

of the ancient Serpent Simbi Division, in Sance he also governs over Agua Dulce and the Indios, and in Puerto Rico is often associated with the Cemi Spirit Yucaju. Gran Rey Molinu as we call him in Sanse is synchronized with el Cristo Rey "Christ King". He is a great Magician, Powerful sorcerer and messenger of the Sun, although he is an ancient Spirit and concidered thus part of the Rada, he as his other vueltas or paths governs other nations. He is the great Sun whose reflection sparkles on the waters of the earth, and is the bearer of the souls of those which reside within the waters of the earth. It is Gran Rey Molinu's energy that gives them the Ache to manifest, it is through this energy that life first sprung on our planet. Most of his offsprings are ancient spirits whose Division is named after him. "Division Simbi" but as I have stated in Sanse he also governs Agua Dulce. Many also syncrenized Gran Simbi Glo with Jesus being baptized in the River Jordan, which is his closest vuelta to Agua Dulce.

GRAN TORO SENTAO

GRAN TORO

Gran Toro Sentao "Sentado", also known as Gran Torolisa or Gran Toro Lizan is the head of la Division del Fuego, Morena, Prieta or Division Negra. He is a fierce spirit, a Lwa of cosmic uncontrolable energies, rage, animal survival instincts, freedom from opression, and the need for independence at all costs. He is a well known Sorcereer and can render any black magic impotent. He is not a Lwa to be taken lightly, he is symbolized with Bulls, Bull's Horns, whips, shackles and chains and signifies strength, the power to conquer and the ability to push past obstacles to achieve success, the ability to get things done, the fight for freedom and independence. He is an ancient Loa whose energy is said to have came forth from human suffering, opression, pain, anguish and the desire to survive. Gran Toro symbolizes survival of the fittest. But it is also this fierce fiery emotion that through the grace of Bondye, created the cosmos. Gran Torolisa's force and the human will to survive, strive and overcome has been seem in some form in every culture and society through out human history. His pressence can be felt in the struggles of African slaves, the slaughter and then rebellion of the Indegenous people of the Americas, and in all forms of hardship, mistreatment, and enslavement of any culture and race has gone through. From hardship, one learns strength, and from strength one learns to survive. In Dominican 21 Division. Gran Torolisa is synchrenized with Jesus de la Buena Esperanza. He is the one who transforms Water into wine, and blood into water which represents grapes ripening after they're rained on and then heated by the sun. He is the one who walks on water, which not only symbokizes African slaves being brought from Africa to the New World but also symbolizes sun light reflecting off the surface of water.

GRAN SOLIER

GRAN PODER Gran Solier, Gran Soley, Gran Soliel, Gran Sol, is the head of la Division Blanca, also known as the Rada Division. He has the power to create life, to awaken and bring forth new life. In 21 Division Gran Solie is syncrenized with San Nicolas del Sol, while in Sanse el Gran Poder de Dios is used to symbolize Gran Solie. He is the great star that resides at the center of our universe, the Sun. He is the life giver, which sustains life not just in our planet but any planet that is given the blessings of life from a Star. The thorn crown symbolizes the rays of the sun, the 12 apostiles, the 12 signs of the the zodiac, sunday his day the day of the Sun. Gran Solier is the light of the world, the Risen Savior who comes on clouds, and every eye shall see him.”

EL JUSTO JUEZ GRAN OLOFI

OLOFI El Justo Juez, or the Just Judge is the head of the Nago Division and the Ogun Nation known as the Los Anagos or the Ancient Orisha Spirits. Gran Olofi symbolizes that from life comes death, and from death life is reborn. From Light shall come darkness and from darkness soon shall come the light. Gran Olofi symbolizes change in order for life to move on and survive. Gran Olofi symbolizes advancement, development, growth, change, rebirth and reaching a higher form of consciousness. It is through the rays of the Sun that the great Spirits came to this earth our planet and gave it life. The rays of the sun is symbolized as the thread, rope or latter in which life force first came into our planet, and it is through the rays of the Sun which life is sustained on this planet. The cross is an extremely ancient symbol which often represented the sun, fertility, ever lasting life or victory. During the winter solstice, The Sun stops moving toward the south. For three days, December 22nd , 23rd , and 24th , the Sun rises on the same degree.

On the morning of December 25th , the sun moves one degree to the north. It seemed like anything that was in motion all year long suddenly stops moving for three days must have died. So, the sun was dead for three days and then moves one degree to the north on December 25th . The Sun is symbolically born again. This is why Christians traditionally celebrate the birth of their solar deity on the winter solstice. "The Spanish pronunciation for Jesus is Heh Zues meaning of Zuez." The Sun had died during winter and is now 'passing over' to his new life in Spring. This is the origin of the modern Pass Over celebration. In the story of the Exodus, the Bible says that Yahweh inflicted ten plagues upon the Egyptians before Pharaoh would release his Hebrew slaves. The Hebrews were instructed to mark the doorposts of their homes with the blood of a Spring lamb and then the spirit of Yahweh “passed over”. The sign was a cross or an x which is an ancient symbol of the Sun. In other words, the Sun ‘passes-over’ the equator at the same time that the Jews celebrate a “Passover Service” by partaking of the ‘bread and wine.’ The Passover is the Jewish Spring festival. This is why Christians celebrate “The Resurrection” of their Sun god in Spring with a “Sun rise service”. The date of Easter was always determined by taking into account the same lunisolar cycles. Easter is the Christian Spring festival and was named after the goddess Eostre. The Greek word for “son” is “huios” and the word for “sun” is “helios” which seam to come of the same origin, as the English Sun and Son.

ORACION A REY MOLINERO

REY MOLINU, REY MOLINERO, GRAN SIMBI DLO

Rey Molinero: bendito, puro y sagrado, bendito sea con la fuerza que fuisteis llamado, con esa misma llamé a mis enemigos en nombre de Dios, las Tres Divinas Personas, Padre Hijo y Espíritu Santo, con esas tres palabras benditas llamé a mis enemigos para que vengan en son de reconciliación hasta mi persona. Que vengan humillados a mis pies como fue humillado Satanas a los pies de San Miguel. Los once mil rayos de Sol radien los cinco sentidos de mis enemigos para que se arrepientan de corazón de sus malas acciones para con migo, que se frenen las malas intenciones y en su lugar advengan a ellos las buenas y a la vez la prosperidad. Los once mil rayos del Sol radien los cinco sentidos de mis

enemigos, sumergiendolos como fue sumergida la esponja en hile y la sal al agua, y que las malas intenciones que vengan en mi contra sean rechazadas con el Vastago de San Pedro, y con la llave sean abiertos los cinco sentidos de aquellos que tengan ojos y no me vean, corazon tengan y no sea yo prisionero, sentidos tengan en mi no piensen, pies tengan y no me sigan, cuchillo y no corten, carabina tengan y se les llene de agua, boca tengan y no hablen y en el manto de Maria Santisima sea yo cubierto y el Sacramento del Altisimo sea mi compañia. Que toda mala acción sean rechazada con el Vástago de San Pedro y con la llave sean abiertos los cinco sentidos de aquellos que tengan ojos y no me vean, corazón tengan y no sea yo prisionero, sentidos tengan y en mi no piensen, pies tengan y no me sigan, cuchillo y no me corten carabina tengan y se les llene de agua, boca tengan y no hablen, y en el manto de Santa María Santísima sea yo cubierto y el Sacramento del Altísimo sea mi alimento y compañía. Amén

PRAYER TO KING REY MOLINERO Blessed King Molinero sacred and pure, with the same force that you was called, I want you to call on my enemies. In the name of God, the Son and Holy Ghost, with these three blessed words I want you to call my enemies so they will come humbled before my feet, just as Satan came humbled before the feet of Saint Michael. May the Eleven Thousand Rays of the Sun irradiate the five senses of my enemies, submerging them just like the sponge that was offered to Christ was submerged in a bucket of vinigar and salt. May all wicked intentions hurled at me be revoked my Saint Peter's staff and with his very keys may all evil intentions be revoked and changed into good. May their eyes not see me, their hearts not feel me. May I be free of them. May their five senses be blinded by your radiant light and not be aware of my pressense. May their feet not walk my paths, and their knives not pierce my flesh. May their bullets not

reach me, may they be deflected. May their mouths not speak hateful words about me. May I be covered by the shroud and robe of Mary which will accompany me to the Holy Sacrament before the altar. Amen

ORACION AL JUSTO JUEZ Santísimo Justo Juez. Hijo de Santa María, que mi cuerpo no se asombre ni mi sangre sea vestida, donde quiera que vaya y venga, las manos del Señor delante las tenga, de mi Señor San Andrés, antes y después, las de mi Señor San Blas, delante y detrás, las de la Señora Virgen María, que vayan y venga mis enemigos, salgan con ojos y no me vean, con armas y no me ofendan, justicia y no me prendan, con el paño que Nuestro Señor Jesucristo fue su cuerpo envuelto sea mi cuerpo, que no sea herido ni preso, ni a la verguenza de la cárcel puesto. Si este día hubiese alguna sentencia en contra mía, que se revoque por la bendición del Padre, el Hijo y el Espíritu Santo. Amén. La compañía de Dios sea conmigo y el Manto de Santa María, su madre, me cobije y de malos peligros me defienda. Ave María Gratia Plena, Dominus Tecum, me libre de todo espíritu no bautizado y por bautizar. Cristo vence, Cristo reina, Cristo de todos los peligros me defienda, Amen.

PRAYER TO THE JUST JUDGE Oh Just and Holy Judge, Blessed Son of the Virgin Mary, let my body be calm and my blood be washed so that wherever I may go, the hands of my Lord Jesus Christ be in front of me. That of St. Andrew before and after me. St. Peter's in the back and the middle. Those of the Virgin Mary, that my enemies may come and go with eyes but without seeing me, with arms but without hurting me, and that justice may not apprehend me. That my body be covered with the cloth that covered Jesus Christ's body, that I may not be hurt, or dead, or incarcerated. Oh Virgin Mary, this prayer I say for good or evil that my enemies hold against me. If any sentence be in this day against me, let it be revoked by

the blessings of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen. The companionship of God is with me and the Mantle of Mary, his mother will shelter me of all ill will and dangers it defends me. Ave Maria Gratia Plena, Dominus Tecum, free me of all unclean and unbaptized spirits. Christ conquers, Christ reigns, Christ for all evil shall defend. Amen.

SIMBI LOS SIMBISES The Great Ancient Water Serpents of Magic and Transformation

PAI CHIMBI OCHUMARE Ayida Quedo, Aida Weddo, Ayida Wedo, Ayida Wedo is an ancient Loa of water and fertility. She is the wife of Gran Damballah and she is symbolized as all all Simbi Loa by a serpent, she is the rainbow serpent of life and fertility. The great mother of the universe, as the universe is encircled within her grasp.

Gran Damballah: Well respected and ancient Loa, father of the Loases. Dan Wedo / Ogou Dan Hueso Weso / Dan Gueso / Dan Weso is the son of Dambalah and Ayida and pertaining to the Ogoun Nation. He is a mystery of changes, purification and of shedding ones skin and becoming another. He is a great Warrior Loa. Papa Chimbi / Pai Simbi / Ochu del Mar / Ochu Mar, Ancient Loa of tranaformation, son of Gran Dambala and Ayida Wedo. He is a great sorcerrer, a water spirit and a part of the Simbi Nation. He is known world wide as the Rainbow Serpent, and has manifested himself materially as the Staff of Moses. Gran Simbi Dlo "Glo" / Gran Rey Molinu / Rey del Agua: Ancient father of the Simbi Division of Spirits, Padrino of Mama Chimbi and great Magician Loa who is the bearer of souls, both are of the Rada Division and their offsprings are ancient spirits whose Division is named after them. "Division Simbi" Gran Siligbo / Mama Sili Gbo, Female aspect of Gran Soley, sister of Belie Belcan, she is of the cleansing flames of the sun, and she is the Misterio who purifies through water and fire, and bestows healing and magical power through herbal baths. She is symbolized by fresh clean water, wells and the the rays of the Sun. She is manifested in many traditiones and would be close to the Kundalini Serpent within.

LA MEDALLA MILAGROSA AYIDA WEDO

LOS MISTERIOS the 7 Jefes of Sance

Although many people who follow an A.T.R. often associate the Catholic saints as being one and the same with African deities, this sincrenition for the most part did not happen in most areas of Puerto Rico until the 1960s. I say most areas because the cult for San Santiago in the pueblo of Loiza Aldea, Puerto Rico has always closely associated San Santiago with the African Yoruba deity, Chango. For most part, and as my grandmother would best say. "A Los Santos, Santos, y a los Angeles, Angeles. (The Saints are Saints, and the Angels are Angels), or in this case African deities are African deities. My Tia (aunt) a bruja and a Sancista / Santera also would say 'Llamen al pan, pan y al vino, vino, y carajo no los confundan!". (Let call bread, what it is, bread, and wine wine, but damn it, don't confuse them!". It is also important to note that the Taino culture had been almost completely eradicated on the island until the 1970s when excavations of ancient Taino Bateas and ceremonial grounds where discovered through out the island. The Taino Spirits and the Cemis had finally awaken from their 300 year slumber, and would never be quieted again. Not until the wave of Cuban immigrants to Puerto Rico and New York in the 1950s and 1960s, which later proceeded with the

wave of Dominicans to the island and the United States mainland in the late 1970s and the 1980s, did the Orisha and Lwas return to Puerto Rican soil and Puerto Rico was reintroduced to the African Spirits. This is not to say that the Orishas and Lwas never touched Borinquen (Puerto Rican) soil till this time. Slaves from Puerto Rico were also from Yoruba and the Kongo regions of Africa, this African culture survived and still can be seen and felt in Loiza Aldea and Guayama, in the music, dance, spiritual traditions and dialect of the language. But the African deities where eradicated from the island, manly because of the smaller groups of African slaves in Puerto Rico in comparison to other islands of the Caribbean. The reason for the survival of the Orisha and Lwas in other Caribbean islands and not in Puerto Rico has to do in part with how small Puerto Rico is in comparison to Cuba and Hispaniola (The Dominican Republic and Haiti) Also although the Spanish Inquisition followed the Conquistadors to the New World, it was heavily felt in Puerto Rico. The first witch hunt and burning in the Americas was held on Puerto Rican soil and predates the Salem Witch trials of Salem Massachusetts about 180 years, in a section of Old San Juan that was once called " el Fangito de las Brujas." Also as I have stated Puerto Rico did have slaves but the African population was much smaller in comparison to other Caribbean Islands. White Spanish origin 75.8%, Black 12.4%, Amerindian 7.8%, Asian 0.2%, other 3.3%, (2010 census) although most Puerto Ricans consider themselves white 65% of the islands population is of Meztiso or Mulatto background.

LAS 7 SIETE POTENCIAS AFRICANAS SANCISTA THE 7 SEVEN AFRICAN POWERS OF SANSE KNOWN AS LOS SIETE JEFES DEL SANSE

SANTERISMO

Santerismo is a branch of Afro Cuban Santeria "Lukumi" which has a strong influence with Puerto Rican Brujeria and Mesa Blanca Espirotismo. Santerismo has a great respect for the Orishas, and are venerated by most Puerto Ricans as a sub group of spirits called "Una Familia" known as Las Potencias, or Potencias Africanas. Also while blood sacrifices are done in both Vodou and Santeria, this is not a common practice in most Puerto Rican Sanse and Santerismo houses, known as Casas, Templos or Centros Espirituales.

Puerto Rican Santerismo has many things in common with Cuban Santeria, with the.exception of the hierarchy of Priests and Priestesses, there are no Babalawos, Babalochas or Iyalochas, there does exist el Padrino y La Madrina and los Ahijados. Also none of the Lukumi initiations are done, in Santerismo just as in Sanse, there is the baptismal ceremonies, and the receiving of the sacred necklaces known as Collares. Also while in Cuban Santeria the initiate undertake various lengthy initiation ceremonies to receive the sacred Soperas with the otanes and implements of the Orishas, and become part of the priestly order. In Santerismo as is with Sanse, the initiate undergoes various rites of passages that are predominantly Espiritismo, making the individual receiving the ceremony the ahijado or ahijada of the Padrino or Madrina. The baptized also receive a prepared image of a Saint known as El or La Centinela, which usually consists of a hollowed plaster saint, and within it a cloth bag is prepared with magical herbs and roots, personal belongings of the person, such as hair, finger nail clippings, strips of clothing and other items. The statue of the Centinela is then cleansed, purified, blessed and empowered in a Velada, or Misa Espiritual ceremony known collectively as Ritos de Paso or Rites of Passage, by invoking the saints to come down and bless the statue, and cleansing and purifying the statue with smoke, holy water and an herbal infusion mixed with bay rum or florida water. While in Santeria "Lukumi" many African deities come down in ceremonies known as BembesCaballo, in Puerto Rico it is titled a casillabanco. In Santerismo and Sanse, the Saints are invoked in Fiestas Espirituales and like Santeria they do dance and show of their abilities, but mostly they interact with the congregation, consulting, prophesying, and lifting a Causa. Also in an Afro Cuban bembe only the Orisha come down and in Haiti the Lwa come down, while in Sanse and Santerismo, the Saints, African deities and any spirit from the Familia and the 21 Courts and Commissions come down together. Many compare Puerto Rican Sanse and Santerismo de la Mesa Blanca to Afro Cuban, Dominican and Haitian religions, in my personal experiences, there are many similarities, but if Sanse

and Santerismo where to be compared to any similar spiritual paths, they would defiantly fall closer under the categories of Brazilian Umbanda, Venezuelan 3 Potencia Espiritismo and Afro American Hoodoo, which is a sincrenition of African and indigenous spirituality. Many Puerto Ricans use the term Santos or Santos Africanos to describe the Orisha, unless the person was initiated into Lukumi, and call them los Orichas, some of the Orisha of the Cuban Lukumi pantheon are.

Olodumare / Olorun / Olofi The Omnipotent, All Powerful Creator God the Creator Obatala -- Our Lady of Mercy September 24rth Color White Odduduwa -- Saint Claire August 11 Colors White and Green Eleggua Elegba - Saint Anthony or the Child of Atocha Color Red and Black Aganyu -- Saint Christopher Feast Day July 25th Color Shades of Reds Yemaya -- Our Lady of Regla Feast Day September 7th Colors Blue, Agua and White Chango -- Saint Barbara December 4th. Colors Red and White Oya -- Our Lady of La Candelaria Feast Day February 2nd Colors 9 Colors Oshun -- Our Lady of Charity September 8th Colors Yellow, Amber, Gold

Ochosi -- Saint Sebastian Colors Violet, Blue, Yellow Oggun -- Saint Peter Feast Day June 29th Colors Green and Black Babalu-Aye -- Saint Lazarus Feast Day December 17th Colors Purple and Yellow Orunla -- St. Francis of Assisi Feast Day October 4th Colors Green and Yellow Inle - Saint Rafael Feast Day October 24th Blue and Yellow Ibeyi - Saints Cosmo and Damian. Feast Day Red and White "Male" Blue and White "Female" Osanyin - Saint Sylvester Feast Day December 31st Color Green Obba - Virgen del Carmen. Colors Pink, Yellow Lilac

The Dominican 21 Division

La 21 División or the 21 Dominican Divisions are the group of Loases Spirits originally venerated in the Dominican Republic and has become popular amongst Puerto Ricans. Puerto Rican Sanse is a branch of Dominican 21 Division Vudù which in tern is a branch of Haitian Voudun. The Loases Spirits of the 21 Division is a group of Spirits also called Los Misterios amongst Puerto Ricans. The Loases of the 21 Divisions like the Seven African

Power Orichas and the 7 Jefes del Sanse Puertoriqueño protect their followers and gift them with the abilities to lift Causas, divination, and healing to name a few, and like the Seven African Powers and the 7 Jefes of Sanse, the Loases of the 21 Divisions have attributes associated to them such as colors, offerings, and likes and dislikes. The name the 21 Divisions has nothing to do with the number of Loases, as there are virtually countless of Loases, the name implies the 21 various groups of hierarchies that a Loa may belong to and they are as follows. 1. The Leguas 2. The Ogunes 3. The Guedes 4. The Rodas 5. The Lokos 6. The Lokomis 7. The Petos 8. The Simbis 9. The Petifones 10. The Marasa 11. The Zombis 12. The Indios 13. The Nagos 14. The Congos 15. The Guineas 16. The Niñillos 17. The Caes 18. The Dangueles 19. The Shuques 20. The Piues 21. The Difemayos Although there are 21 Divisions they are also organized into three ethnic groups that make up the foundation of the human race Caucasoids, Negroids, and Mongoloids and are as follows División Blanca, División India División Negra

The División Blanca: or the White Division assists the followers who work the altar and within this Division Santa Ana (Anaísa), Patrón Santiago (Ogún Balenyó), Virgen Dolorosa (Metresilí), San Antonio (Papá Legbá), San Carlos Borromeo (Candelo), Santa Elena (La Gunguna), Santa Clara (La Señorita), Virgen de la Candelaria (Candelina). The statues within this Division are always usually Catholic Saints.

The División India are the Loases and Commission that work with the element of Water, and when they manifest they purify with water and liquids. They are represented by Native American Indian statutes. The Indian División's altars are usually located close to the ground and are always kept separate from other groups of spirits and Saints. This Division is always kept far from the Division Negra, for the reason being that the Division Negra enjoys blood offerings while the Division India will have nothing to do with it. The Indian Division enjoys offerings of tobacco, corn meal, black unsweetened coffee, fruits, nuts berries and casava bread.

When a spirit of this Division takes possession of a follower they always ask for water to quench their thirst, then tobacco smoke and occasionally Rum. They enjoy colors of all kinds although usually 7 various colors although most of the Loases within this Division has its own attributed color. The División Negra: This División is also placed close to the earth, and are placed away from the Indian División because those initiated into Dominican Vudu called Caballos de Misterio give them blood sacrifices. Those who are not initiated into their mysteries offer them black beans, okra, pumpkin, and potatoes, as well as tobacco and liquor. The Loases within this Division are: San Elías "Barón del Cementerio", San Expedito "Guedé Limbó", Santa Marta La Dominadora, Ezili Kénwa". Although there are countless Loases within Dominican Vudu the most popular are. Anaísa Pyé - Santa Ana Bakúlu Baká - San Felipe Barón Del Cementerio - San Elías Belié Belcán - San Miguel Cachita - Nuestra Señora de la Caridad Candelina - Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria Candelo Cedifé - San Carlos Borromeo Centinela - San Sebastián Clementina - La Virgen Milagrosa Damballah - San Patricio

Ezili Alaíla - Nuestra Señora de la Alta Gracia Ezili Danthó - Santa Bárbara Africana Ezili Kénwa - Santa Martha Filomena Lubana -Santa Martha La Dominadora Gran Bwav - San Judas Gran Solié - San Nicolás del Sol Gran Toroliza - Cristo de las Buenas Esperanzas Gunguna - Santa Elena Jan Bakéo - San Pedro Jan Ferro - San Marcos de León Jan Kriminelo - San Pancracio La Señorita - Santa Clara Marassa - San Cosme and San Damián Metresilí - La Dolorosa Ofelia Balendjo - La Virgen de las Mercedes Ogún Balendjo - San Santiago Ogún Batalá - San Martín de los Caballeros Ogún Fegai - San Jorge Papá Legbá - San Antonio

The Puerto Rican Sanse Familias are 1. The Legbas 2. The Ogunes 3. The Guedes 4. The Candelos 5. The Belcanes 6. The Metresas 7. The Indios 8. The Solieres 9. The Prietos 10. The Simbises 11. The Centinelas 12. The Guineas 13. The Madamas 14. The Niños 15. The Orientales 16. The Potencias

17. 18. 19. 20. 21.

The Magos The Aguases The Jemelos The Cemises The Arabeses

Of these 21 Familias of Spirits the puntos Misterios most popular recieve in Sance are known as Los 7 Siete Jefes "Seven Chiefs", Ecce Homo and Pai Elegba are not considered in the Siete Jefes, Ecce Homo is above the Jefes, and Pai Elegb is the Messenger, that leads the way, but everyone in Sance recieves the punto to a Legba..

ECCE HOMO

Ecce Homo pronounced "Eh seh oh moh" is the brightest of Stars in our universe he is seen as the Sun that gives life and sustains it here on our earth and is also called el Gran Sol. He blesses humanity with goodness, kindness, charity illumination, elevation, spiritual abilities, spiritual communication, faith wisdom, compassion, understanding, love, happiness, truth and knowledge. He is the King and ruler of la Siete Familias of

Misterios and is surrounded by the Siete Puntos Spirits of these Siete Familias. The Sun is his Thrown and a spark of his essence exists in all humanity, good or bad, evil or kind. He is the origin of Hope and is envisioned as the master Jesus Christ. He never takes physical possession of a human as his spirit is to pure and elevated.

Pai Legba / Eleguita

The Misterio that opens and closes the pathways and leads the 7 Jefes Misterios del Sance is el Papa Elegba and in Puerto Rico is associated with Saint the Child of Atocha. His feast day is June 13th and his color is brown. He enjoys tobacco, rum and sweets of all kinds and is usually the first and last to appear in a Sesion, unless La Metresili comes down which he respectfully waits in the side lines, since he enjoys to smoke a lot of tobacco and drink a lot liquor, something La Metresili loathes above all things. When he comes down it is a custom for all to shout in unison. "Gracias a La Misericordia!"

LUIS GUEDESITO LUISITO GUEDE GUEDE LUI

He is always seen using his cane as he is an ancient Misyerio and is considered as old as time itself and has a child like, mischievous quality and often plays pranks and tricks on those who are near his presence. Papa Legba is usually happy but when he is contemplating on an individuals Causa he becomes quit and observant and is quick to scold and tell an individual their faults. Some Puerto Rican Sanse Societies associate the child of atocha with the younger Punto or camino to Papa Legba as Luis Guedesito, the spirit who opens and closes the doors to the Spirits.

ANAISA

One of the most wildly popular and most venerated Metresas Spirit is Anaisa known also as Anaisa Pye. While in the Dominican Republic she is synchronized with the young Virgin Mary who is accompanied by her mother Saint Anne, in Puerto Rico she is associated with Saint Jean di Arc and her feast day is celebrated on July 26th. She is the faithful companion of Belié Belcan and on altars you will often find the statue of Saint Jeane Di Arc next to Saint Michael. Anaisa is a very feminine flirtatious spirit and is known as the Queen of Love. When she mounts her followers and takes over their body in possession she comes laughing and dancing. Her favorite color is yellow and gold and she is always seen dancing with her yellow, golden laced cloth paños and mirrors. She is also fond of lipstick, facial powders, golden jewellery and bangles on her wrists and ankles. She is fond of sweet smelling perfumes, oils, baby powder and loves to drink a can of beer with her followers, if in possession she asks for a cigarette to smoke, this is an indication that she is ready to consult with her followers.

SANTA MARTA LA DOMINADORA

Saint Martha the Dominator is one of the most powerful of Metresas. Although in the Puerto Rican Sanse Religion she is simply known as Santa Marta la Dominadora in the Dominican Republic Vudù Religion she is known as Morena Filomena Lubana. She is the queen of the Division Negra ans rules it wisely with her companion el Baron del Cementerio. Santa Marta la Dominadora is a wise, serious and fierce Misterio and is always seen carrying a serpant a symbol of her dominating anything in Heaven and Earth. She is a warrior spirit and if offended her wrath can only be pacified by Papa Buen Dios. Her feast day is observed on July 29th and offerings of cigars and black unsweetened coffee is brought to her. The colors associated with her are green, purple and red.

LA MADRE DOLEROSA METRESILI

One of the purest and quietest of Metresas is La Madre Dolerosa Metresili, who is associated with Our Lady of Sorrows. Her feast day is celebrated on September 15th and her associated colors are all shades of pink and white and sky blue. As an offering she is fond of pink champagne, sweet red wine, and fruit punch. She is a quiet spirit who will not take possession if liquor or tobacco is in her presence and she does not like conflict. When she does take possession she does so crying, cleansing all with her tears. She will not touch the ground which is full of human sins and filth, so a brand new clean white cloth is put on the ground before she takes possession. Often a Fuente Espiritual is prepared with Holy Water, Florida Water, Kolonia 1800 and petals of roses which she uses to bless all who are present. La Metresili usually does not stay long in a spiritual gathering her maximum time being that of 15 minutes of less. She is also known as the sister to Anaisa Pyè.

BELIE BELCAN

One of the most ancient and eldest Misterio is Belie Belcan who is associated with the Archangel Saint Michael. Belie Belcan's feast day is celebrated on September 29th and his associated colors are Green and Red, if you ever enter a Botanica and see a statue of Saint Michael clothed in a Red and Green cape this is an indication that it is Belie Belcan. He is the Punto ruler of the Division Blanca, and is often the largest statue represented. He is a warrior spirit who fights for the protection and justice of humanity and is always at war with demons. When he takes possesion in a Sesion Espiritual he often walks with a limp right leg which he wounded in battle with the devil. Others say he walks with a limp because he keeps Satan within hell with this very leg. He always greets the crowd shouting in Spanish. "Buenos Noches mi Sociedad!, or Buenas Tardes Criollos!" Or in French "Bonswa a la Societie!". Which he yells in a hoarse, but loud thunderous voice. Those who become possessed by him tie a green paño over their right shoulder and a red paño over the left. Then he asks for his rum and tobacco which he uses to cleanse, purify and consult.

PAPA CANDELO

In Puerto Rican Sanse he is simply known as Papa Candelo, while in Dominican Vudu he is known as General Candelo Cedife. He is an elder gentleman spirit who enjoys and loves the companion of his followers. His associated color is red, and all who invoke him know to do so in cement pavement as he takes a bottle of Florida Water and pours a circle and lights it, carefully cleansing all with the flames. He is very just, benevolent wise and knowledgeable in all things pertaining to spiritual elevation. He blesses with spiritual protection, abundance and good luck. His feast day is celebrated on November the 3rd. In the Dominican Republic he is associated with Saint Charles Borromeo while in Puerto Rico it is Saint Martin de Porres. He uses palm fronds which is his escoba, which are a symbol of triumph and victory. He also uses Coconuts to pass over his followers and coconut milk to cleanse, heal and purify.

OGUN BELANDO

Ogun Balendo is associated with San Santiago Apostal, and his devotees and followers are greatly concentrated in the Puerto Rican town of Loiza Aldea, where he is venerated similar to the Orisha Shango. His colors are red and blue and his feast day is celebrated on July 25th. Ogun Balendo is a fierce warrior, and is very stern, although he is a warrior he does not like chaos or disorder and will not tolerate filth of any kind. He is also a great healer, and does not take Rum as an offering from humans, he prefers wine and tobacco and if rum is present he will take it, without the permission of any human. Although he is a fierce warrior many times he comes down greeting all present with a warm hand shake, a pat on the back and makes you feel as he is your closest long lost friend or family member. When he comes to consult he asks for his sword so he may cut the chains that bind humanity.

San Elias el Baron Del Cementerio

The Spirit who rules over the dead is el Baron del Cementerio who is associated with Saint Elias del Monte . His feast day is July 20th and his colors are black and white. In Puerto Rico he is one Spirit although in Haiti and the Dominican Republic he is many. Other Barons in this division are Baron de la Cruz, el Baron del Monte, Baron del Sabado. In Puerto Rico not to many people become possessed directly with him but become possessed by San Elias who will often use the name San Elias and el Baron interchangeably. He is very respected in Puerto Rico but rarely does he take possession of a host. He is invoked to rid of earth bound spirits and cleanse a persons aura or negative elemental spirits.

Difference between Commissions and Jefes. The various Commission of Spirits are the souls of people who in life where wise and benevolent. They worked to serve the people and in death they still work for the greater good of humanity. Many of the Spirits in the Commissions where priests, priestess and wise men and women, and also venerated either a Lwa, Orisha, Angel, Saint or Cemi. They are the heroes the

leaders whose works of good deed in life and after life insure their elevation up the Spiritual Latter to one day becoming an Ascended Master. Many are viewed and respected as folk saints or saints of the people. They are our Seres our Muertos and are the messengers of our Cemi, Loases, Orishas, and Angels. A singular spirit of a Commission is known as a Muerto or a Buen Ser. As a group they can be called, Muertos, Seres, Cortes or the popular Commissions. Since they are closer to our plane of egsistance less energy is needed or required for them to come down into an Embajada. They are usually the mouth piece for Higher Spirits and work under their supervision and with their Corriente. Many Buen Sers come in place of an Orisha, Cemi or Loa, and usually have many of the attributes of these spiritual forces. Minor things may differ. For example, a Buen Ser may come displaying many attributes of a higher force but they also have their own likes and dislikes. So in life, Otelio may have been a follower of Obatala, and may come down instead of Obatala, acting in a similar fashion as Obatala. But Obatala does not drink liquor, and Otelio might. The mysteries of our spiritual path may seam confusing to those who do not follow it, but makes perfect sense to its followers. The Jefes are the Orisha, Cemi, Loases, Spirits of Nature, highly elevated saints, Ascended Masters, and Angelic Forces. They are closer to God, and like the Seres come down to Embajadas to consult, heal and lift causas. POPULAR SAINTS VENERATED IN PUERTO RICO

The list of Saints are those who are very popular within Puerto Rico and all of Latin America, and have become Ascended Masters. The list is short, because to include them all would be a long task. Carlos Manuel Rodriguez. For healing and miracles Rafael Cordero. For study, education and protection of children. Niño de Atocha Opens and closes doorways of opportunities. Law an d Court matters. Santa Clara. Helps with addictions such as drugs and alcohol, protection of the body against evil. San Miguel. Defeat Occult Enemies, and Demons Santa Barbara. Protection from violent deaths, defender of women, drives away evil influences, protection against incarceration. San Elias. Against earth bound malevolent spirits and Ghosts.

Santa Lucia. Helps in seeing the true matter and nature of things, eye problems, against el mal de ojo. San Alejo. Removes obstacles, ,clears pathways, keep enemies away, Santa Marta. dominates enemies. San Gerardo. Channeling, mediumship and psychic visions. San Martin de Porres. For healing, stability and calmness. San Lazaro. Health Healing San Expedito. To bring quick results. San Cipriano. For knowledge in hidden wisdom. San John the Baptist. For cleansing and purifying, removing obstacles. San Aparicio. Helps find lost items and objects. Saint Alejo to rid of unwanted vibrators Saint Joseph to find work Saint Fransis of Asis. Against gossip, evil plots, peace of mind and peace at home. For quiet and solitude. Saint Jude. Help in lost causes. Saint Luis Bertrand. Dominate occult enemies, rid curses. Saint Gregorio. For healing. El Divino Niño Jesus. For healing after surgery, healing and quick recovery. Saint Anna. Help find a companion.

Saint Anthony. Improve memory, and overcome financial difficulties. Saint Christopher. Against accidents and a violent death. Saint Sebastian. Against weapons, court cases, and rivals.

LOS SIETE JEFES DEL SANSE THE SEVEN AFRICAN POWERS OF SANSE LAS SIETE POTENCIAS DIVISIONES DEL SANSE

BELIE BELCAN! Sanse / 21 Division Tradition

Bonswa a la Societé!

Las Buenas Tardes a to mis Criollos!! Yo Soy Belie Belcan....

Good Evening to all the Societies! I am Belie Belcan... One of the most respected and loved Misterios in Puerto Rican, Sanse and Dominican, 21 Division traditions is the Lwa known as Belie Belcan. He is known as the ancient wise and benevolent king, who brings fair judgement and justice to all who do good and evil. While in Dominican, 21 Division his colors are red and green; in Puerto Rican Sanse, blue is also added to his colors. Usually he is dressed in green and red garments with red or blue rosary beads around his neck and is placed on top of an altar with a royal blue and red cloth, which would show that the person is a follower of la 21 Division del Panteo Sancista. Red and blue ribbons are also tied to the waist of his statues or around the forehead. He is a leader within la Nacion Blanca, the White Nation "Rada Nation" (Rada means “light or sun”, which some say he governs alongside Asaca Dipié "Cosmic Earths", Damballah Wedo "Primordial waters" and Gran Solier, "Solar Fires", while Belie Belcan is viewed as the Air or Breath of Papa Buen Dios. The Rada has nothing to do with the limitations of earthly race or color, what it means is that the Misterios within this nation are highly elevated Spirits and can also come from African and Indigenous origins. A statue, image or photograph of Belie Belcan is often placed in the center of the Tableau Espiritual where he guards, protects and bestows his wise council and judgements upon the living and the dead. This role comes from the teachings of Saint Michael Archangel who is also seen as an angel of Death, in this role one sees Belie Belcan's association with the Guede Lwa. In this role and association with the Guede, at the hour of death, Saint Michael descends, weighs each soul within his scale, gives each soul the chance to redeem itself before passing, and carries

those souls that have passed through the gates of elevation, for those that have not, some will be reborn, others must cleanse themselves of earthly sins in purgatory, and others are to receive harsher punishments. Although Belie Belcan is a part of the Rada Nation and is the leader of the Belcan Division, he is considered an Ogun Lwa, as he is a great warrior Misterio, always ready for battle with those evil demonic forces that attack humanity and helps dominate over the evil within the living. He is also considered a part of the Lebane Division "Legba" as he, like his brothers are divine messengers. He is the personal messenger of Papa Buen Dios and Gran Solier, the latter who is syncrenized with the Sacred Heart of Jesus or Ecce Homo, and is the Jefe "chief" in command of Gran Solier's army, this title he shares alongside his brothers Tindjo Alawe and Gran Cali; whose fiery swords are viewed as the rays of the Sun. The Rays of the Sun are a symbol of their power and authority over earthly matters and are their most sacred weapons of choice .

BELIE BELCAN, TINDJO ALAWE,

GRAN SOLIER, & GRAN CALI

Belie Belcan sword is made of cosmic blue flames and is viewed as the Blue Ray of God, while Tinjo Alawe (Saint Rafael) is the Green Ray, and Gran Cali (Saint Gabriel) is the White Ray. These rays are symbolized as Gran Solier's sunlight rays cutting through the mysteries that the unknown and unfaboding darkness of night brings and promising a new day, rebirth, and new beginnings. Also Belie Belcan's sword is viewed as the blue lightning bolts that flash through the skies, which is symbolic of him keeping demons in their place within their underworld realm and of him sending God's will and wrath upon earth. In this aspect he is closely associated with Ogou Shango who is viewed as one of his vueltas. Lightning is viewed as Belie's sword hitting the earth, where Papa Dios commands it, while the crackling thunder is symbolic of the voice of Belie Belcan as the messenger of both the wrath of Buen Dios and the forgiveness and promises of Gran Solier.

OGOU SHANGO

Both in Sanse and 21 Division, Belie Belcan is synchronized with the Archangel Saint Michael, who is known as el Viejo Miguel, San Miguel or Miguel Archangel. In Haitian Vodou he is known as Agaou, Agarou, Linglessou, Garou Linglessou, Angles Sou, or Anglesssou. While in Creole Louisianna Voodoo Daniel Blanc or Blanc Dani is synchronized with Saint Michael, Daniel Blanc is seen more as the Orisha Obatala or the Lwa Dambalah. In Dominican 21 Division he is, el Viejo Belie Belcan Tone.

Belie Belcan and Candelo

SANSE ALTAR

Belie Belcan is a noble Misterio and his Compadre and closest companion is the Palero Misterio known as General Candelo Sedife. Belie Belcan governs over air, earth and fire, while Candelo governs over fire and air, together they work together, fueling each other which helps the Ogun Division forge their metals and weapons. Many who hear that Candelo is a Palero

instinctively confuse him as a Mpungo Spirit honored in Palo Monte or Palo Mayombe, this is not the case, and far from the truth. This misunderstanding stems from the fact that the Lwa Candelo holds the wisdom to much root and wood magic, is a fiery spirit, in the aspect that his Roots or wooden staffs inflamed give us light during the uncertainties of the dark nights, and he enjoys music, with the beat of sticks upon cow bells, and drums. He is a Palero in the sense that the sacred music to Dominican Vudu, la 21 Division is termed as Palo music after the hollowed out tree trunks that are used to make the sacred drums, which are sacred to Candelo. Therefor Candelo is a Palero in the sense that he works with roots, he is a Misterio of fire and passion. He bestows the mysteries on humans on how to work Palo, "wood magic" and how to make music with palos, and he enjoys to mount during times when Palo music is being played. Candelo is the fiery passion, the raw energy, the sexual drive of the drums, which is visualized as a female vagina, while the drum sticks or human palms striking the drum are symbolic of the male penis. Matches and inflamed wooden torches are also sacred to Candelo and again symbolize the male penis inflamed in passion. Belie Belcan is the nights watchman, as he patrols the dark street of night, conquering any demon or earth bound spirit that roams the nights. He uses his chains to bind spirits, and is said to be the one that forges the chains that bind the souls within Purgatory.

Belie Belcan, The Ladies Man

SAN MIGUEL AND JUANA DE ARCO

Belie Belcan is known as a ladies man, a Casanova, and a great lover of the mysteries of the female species. He is a gentleman and is never groutest or vulgar towards woman, as within Belie Belcan's mysteries lies the galiancy of the great lovers of old. If Casanova of Italy and Don Juan of Spain where ruled by a Misterio, Belie Belcan would have been their patron. It is said that he has many wives or female lovers, in Santo Domingo his concubine is Anaisa Pye who is synchronized with the young Virgin Mary next to Santa Ana, and are always placed together on the Dominican badji altars while in Puerto Rican Sanse, his wife is also a vuelta of Anaisa known as Anaisa la Chiquita who is synchronized with Jean De Arc; and on Puerto Rican Tableau Espirituales, they are always placed together. But it is said that although at first Belie Belcan may be shy towards women, which shows his younger aspect, soon he will accumulates confidence

and flirt with any female, and Misterio, such as Cachita Tumbo, Erzulie Freda and Sili Dantor, but has the greatest respect towards the elder female Misterios such as Gran Sili, la Sirena, and la Ballena.

Belie Belcan as a Legba Misterio

BELIE BELCAN As a Legba spirit he is often associated as being one and the same as Papa Legba, which is not the case. Papa Legba in his vuelta of Eshu is Belie Belcan's closest of brothers, but while Belie Belcan represents justice Eshu is represented as the temptations of those things that can harm humanity. Although they are very close, they often find themselves in great battles, but Belie Belcan always has the upper hand, or so he thinks; as Papa Legba is the master of trickery. Eshu in this aspect is viewed as el Diablo, the Devil, and is known by many names

such as Lucerito, Lucero del Amanecer, Kadiempembe Echu, Echu Rei, and Olosi. The image of Saint Michael banishing Lucifer ."Satan" into the pits of hell is also symbolic of us as humans always battling our inner demons, and having control, domination and the upper hand of those very demons and earth bound spirits that can easily leeds us astray from the mission of the elevation of our Spirit. Eshu in his aspect of Lucifer is known as the messenger of the morning star, or the Light bringer or as Luciel which means God's Light. As the Legba close and open doors for opportunities, Belie Belcan is the one who opens and closes chapters and cycles within our lives. He is the one who leads us through the circle of life, he starts us in one point of direction and can lead us around until we reach the finishing line, which is often the starting point. This is symbolized as an infant growing to adulthood then old age, in the beginning and in the end we are very dependent of the help of others, while in the middle we are more independent of ourselves. In his aspect as a Legba Misterio, Belie Belcan watches the entrance of the doorways. A blessed image or photo is placed above the doorways of the home, so that he may open the doorways of opportunities, while at the same time protecting those who live within the home, from malignant forces. He is a persons personal guard, and watchman. Unlike the Orisha Eleggua that is placed on the floor behind a doorway, Belie Belcan is placed above the door. A horse shoe can also be placed above the doorways as a symbol of Belie Belcan's quickness and strength to protect. This amulet shows his aspect as both an Ogun Misterio and a Legba Misterio. Horses are also sacred to many Lwa and Orisha, including Belie Belcan, who calls those he mounts as, "el Caballo", the horse. A blessed palm frond can be placed tangled within the Horse Shoe as a symbol

that he is of the Rada nation, or weaved into a cross which shows that Belie Belcan watches over every direction, and brings the light of Gran Solier.

BELIE BELCAN'S WEAPONS BLUE SWORD: He uses it to defend against the dark forces and any condition other than the Truth, and to break ties and negative influences. BLUE LIGHTNING: Used to destroy and kill all negative or destructive situation. The blue lightning is often symbolized as Saint Michael's spear or lance. "Whosoever possess this Spear and understands the powers it serves holds in his hands the destiny of the world for good or evil." The Spear or lance is viewed as the Blue Lightning bolt coming from the heavens and hitting its mark on earth. "The spear or lance of Destiny of the Lord's wrath against the enemies of Israel was so fierce that it terrified even the sun and the moon" (Hab 3:11) BLUE SHIELD: To protect and shield, Belie Belcan uses his shield to guard and hide his followers from the snares of demons. THE SCALE: Is symbolic of both Belie Belcan role with divine justice and his abilities to weigh the souls of the dead, in order to see if they may progress into a higher state of existence. The scale is also the symbol of balance, in order for one to know good, one must know evil, in order for one to appreciate happiness, one must suffer through sadness, the scale is a

symbol that we as humans must keep these things in perfect balance. THE WOODEN CANE: Symbolizes that he is both an ancient Lwa as old as time, and one of Papa Buen Dio's first created, and his authority over magic and that he is a part of the Legba Division. THE CHAINS: He uses the chains to bind demons to hell and Earth Bound tormented souls or Lone Souls in Purgatory.

Plegaria Saint Michael / Belie Belcan

Prince of Archangels. Owner of the first rays which are seen as blue flashes of light. He who destroy the evil forces of the universe. Amongst your kind you are the mightiest. Protector and defender of the cosmic fires of the universe. Ambassador of the sun, here on earth. Head Jefe Chief of the Celestial Court. He who holds the lance of Phinehas which guards the Tree of Life. Representative of the Power and Dignity of God. Director of the third season of the year, autumn. He who rescued Daniel from the lion's den. You who stopped Abraham from sacrificing Issac his only son. You who guards the garden of Eden. You who was chosen to announce the death of the Virgin Mary. We praise you director and chief of all the Archangels. For you are the one who is

closest and guards the throne of God. Owner of the divine power to alienate the legions of evil and demonic forces. Sovereignty over Seraphims, Cherubims, Thrones, Dominions, Powers, Virtues, Principalities, Archangels, and Angels. You helped to defeat the French army against injustice, and favored our lady Joan of Arc and the poor Patron Saint of the knights of medieval times, and those in war who fight for the justice of all mankind. Your name means "He who is like God" and has been nominated protector and defender of the Cristian Church. But still you remain a faithful friend and defender to the Jewish people. You were sent by God to appear before Moses and lighted the burning bush. We all praise and honor you, on your holy days, September 29th and November 8th. Oh Single entity listed as an archangel in the Bible, with your brothers Gabriel and Raphael. Protector of the fire signs, Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. You were appointed the greatest celestial spirits. Protector of the sun, symbol of life, maximum energy of the universe. You have the ability to improve the lives of everyone here on earth and to defend us from psychic attacks, the snarls of the devil, the attack of an enemy and witchcraft and black magic.. It is written, Archangel Michael, as commander in chief of God's army will appear when the world is in grave danger, and will lead Christ against the Anti Christ and the Devil, we pray your divine presence and ask that you pray for us.

Communicating with Belie Belcan in Sanse

Although many traditions have the ability to mount Lwa and Orisha, this is not the case within Sanse. In Sanse we often mount the Messengers of the Lwa as we view the Misterios as highly elevated spirits. It is not that in Sanse, a Sancista can not mount a Misterio, it is that less energy is required to call on their messengers which we call Emisarios, Corrientes or Sanse. In Sanse we communicate with the Misterios as any Catholic communicates with their Patron Saint for help and guidance. First the Sancista always recites a Padre Nuestro and Ave Maria, in honor of Papa Buen Dios, because in Sanse God is always honored and prayed to first. Before any Ancestor, before any

Dead, before any Misterio God is called on first. Then we knock on the altar 3 times and call on Papa Legba to open the doors, but since an aspect of Belie Belcan is a vuelta of Legba this is not necessary but because of tradition always done. We often begin by praying any prayer of protection to Saint Michael. There are many, and any will do. Then we begin by placing white and blue flowers in a vase and place it before Saint Michael's image. We then place a Fuente Espiritual filled with ice water and indigo balls within it, with a splash of Holy water, Kolonoa 1800, Colonia Pompeya, many add Alcholado Superior 70, or Alcoholado Sana. " Trust me Florida Water is not the only thing we work with." On either side of the Fuente we place a red candle and a blue candle anointed with a holy oil or pure virgin olive oil. In front of the Fuente we place a white candle that has been anointed with holy oil or olive oil. You can at this moment light an incense stick, or light an incense charcoal "with wooden matches" and add frankincense and myrrh and wave it around the image of Saint Michael " Belie Belcan" and around the fuente and candles. If you practice Dominican 21 Division, you can offer him a cigar and a glass of whisky or rum. In Sanse we do not traditionally offer the Misterios material offerings with the exception of Candles, water, flowers, and incense. This may sound confusing, but the liquor and tobacco can be offered to the Emisarios that work for Belie Belcan on the altar where the Fuente, candles.and flowers are placed. If you are calling on Belie Belcan, use an altar bell, if the Emisario was black in life, use a chekere, if the Emisario was Indian, use a Maraca, or simply use the altar bell to chant your prayers and place yourself in a state of listening and receiving messages. Now cleanse your head with Holy water or Florida Water and

begin to quietly pray and meditate to Belie Belcan. Call him with your mind, because it is through your mind that the Misterios hear you. What good is it if you are reciting a prayer and thinking of something else. Place all your thoughts on your desire, wish and petitions. Talking in your mind and listen to your sub conscience voice, your inner voice, this is where ones Centinela.or ones Guia Principal work as messengers to the Mistsrios. It is through ones mind that they will contact you. The voice of the Lwa Misterios within the Puerto Rican Sanse tradition is not a material voice, it is not the way one would listen to a living being or a spirit that has mounted in a Sesion. You might hear voices, you might see visions that pertain to your question, respectfully copy them down in a note book. When you receive your message, bow down before the altar, and thank Papa Buen Dios for his Misericordia. Leave the candles lit and offerings there until the flowers begin to decay, and bring them to a park on a hill and place them their with an offering of coins and liquor to the messengers of Belie Belcan for helping you in giving you an answer to your question. During the time that the candles are lit, on a daily basis offer more incense, and pay close attention to your dreams, as the answers may come to you in dreams.

Goat Meat as an Offering to Belie Belcan Goat Meat is a staple food within many Caribbean foods and has been assigned as a favorite offering dish to Belie Belcan. This

offering could have its origins from the image of Saint Michael dominating the Goat Like Satan. which has its tradition in early Christians assigning Pagan Gods as Demons, as such is the fate of both Pan and Baphomet.

Revocation Saint Michael Items needed 1. Reverse candle Black and Red 2. Goblet 3. White Plate 4. Holy Water & Vinegar 5. Olive Oil 6. Pen & Paper 7. Statue or Image of Saint Michael 8. Candle to Saint Michael 9. Four white candles 10. Sea Salt 11. Brown paper bag 12. Ashes from a cigar. There are many versions of this Revocation to Saint Michael, some requiring hard to find objects, and others just a candle. This is the simple one that I have used and it has worked for me and clients that have come to me. Before the image of Saint Michael " Belie Belcan" I place all my items. On the reverse black and red candle that can be found in any Botanica I pull out the candle and with a sharp object carve the name of the person causing harm, with birth date if possible or symbol of zodiac sign, if I do not know the name I carve "Enemy or Enemies". Then I carefully carve the wick from the

opposite side making sure I get a wick to point out of it. I then anoint the candle with the olive oil to the candle, beginning in the middle of the candle I anoint away from me. Then I turn the candle and do the same, anointing oil away from me and then I replace the candle back into the glass container. I then take olive oil and anoint each one starting with the Saint Michael candle then the four other white candles, as I did with the reverse candle. On a piece of paper I write the name of the enemy and sprinkle ashes, from a cigar, and fold the paper three times away from me and place it under the image of Saint Michael. I take the glass and fill it with Holy water, and add a few drops of vinegar and sprinkle salt, and then I place the piece of paper into the glass of holy water, and sprinkle salt and a drop of oil. I then place the white plate over it and cover it, and carefully flip it over making sure not to spill the water. I place the Reverse candle on top of the glass, which is set before the image of Saint Michael, and then place the Saint Michael Candle in front of Saint Michael and each of the white candles around it. I light all the candles, starting with the reversible one which is on top of the glass, then the Saint Michael and counter clock wise I light the others. Each night at the same time, usually 12 in the evening or 12 midnight I go before the candles and recite the Revocation prayer. When all the candles have died out. I take each candle glass and place them within a brown bag and I place the paper with the name. I pass the bag around my body, and then I throw the remainder of the water away from my house.

I bring the bag to the forest and find a dead tree, that has been hit by lightning or is naturally dying tree and place the bag there, never looking back and always taking a different route home. When you arrive home take a bath with Castile Soap and Sea Salts to cleanse yourself. (Note for stronger enemies and if you are 21 years and older, instead of Holy Water or Vinegar, I add Whisky or Rum)

Revocation Saint Michael Prayer

Oh great Saint Michael Archangel Belie Belcan, as you are the Angel in charge of all the works in the world, I implore you at this solemn hour and this sacred day, to seize any witchcraft, sorcery, enchantment, or black magic done against me. I implore that you take this time so that you will see the light, candle, and work I have done in your honor. Come sorcery, evil spirit, demon and corruption and revoke it away from my body. Let the flesh and blood of my enemies treat me well. Let my enemies suffer as our Lord Jesus Christ suffered on the Cross, bitterness, torment, kicks and slaps. Let them go into a desolate world. Let them take the three falls that Jesus took, until they comes to my home asking forgiveness for their sins against me. As Ponchos Pilot, let them either wash their hands of me, or pay the debts to karma. Let the Sun, Moon and Stars in Heaven bear witness to my pleas. So be it. Amen

RESGUARDO SAN MIGUEL / BELIE BELCAN

A resguardo is what is termed in Hoodoo and Voodoo as a Gris Gris Bag or Mojo bag and is used as an amulet to call on the protective powers of a Saint or a Spirit from one of the Conisiones. They are amulets and charms that are placed in a bag and blessed and given the energies of the elements, and kept close to the person who it is prepared for. Here are the items that go within a resguardo to Belie Belcan. 1. Red cloth bag, small enough to fit in a pocket or kept in a purse. 2. Blue or Green yarn 3. Espada de San Miguel amulet.

4. Amulet of Saint Michael 5. 1 Loadstone 6. 1 Quarts Crystal 7. 1 Tiger's Eye stone 8. 1 small Thunder stone 9. Piece of Paper with person's name 10. Saint Michael oil 11. 3 Job's tears 12. 3 Peonia Seeds 13. Large Glass 14. 7 Espadas de San Miguel Candle 15. Precipitado Rojo 16. Azabache Stone

Place all items on a white plate in front of an image of Saint Michael, and take Saint Michael's oil and sprinkle over every item then sprinkle the Precipitado rojo. One by one place each item that has been asasonado "seasoned" with the oil and Precipitado rojo into the bag starting with the Espada de San Miguel amulet and then the rest of the items. On a piece of paper write the name of the person for who the resguardo is made for. Then place in bag and tie it shut with blue or green yard. Place on top of plate and glass on top of of resguardo to seal it shut. Then anoint the 7 Espada de San Miguel candle with the oil and place on top of glass and light it. Leave in a window sill where the rays of the moon and sun will hit it, until candle dies out, usually Seven days. (NEVER LEAVE CANDLES UNATTENDED). After this the resguardo is charged and ready to use. Instruct person to recharge Resguardo once a month on the night of the Full Moon by sprinkling a little oil on the Resguardo and leaving it in an area where the moon and sun rays will get at it for a full day.

Prayer to St. Michael O Glorious Prince of the heavenly host, St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in the battle and in the terrible warfare that we are waging against the principalities and powers, against the rulers of this world of darkness, against the evil spirits. Come to the aid of man, whom Almighty God created immortal, made in His own image and likeness, and redeemed at a great price from the tyranny of Satan. Fight this day the battle of the Lord, together with the holy angels, as already thou hast fought the leader of the proud angels, Lucifer, and his apostate host, who were powerless to resist thee, nor was there place for them any longer in Heaven. That cruel, ancient serpent, who is called the devil or Satan who seduces the whole world, was cast into the abyss with his angels. Behold, this primeval enemy and slayer of men has taken courage. Transformed into an angel of light, he wanders about with all the multitude of wicked spirits, invading the earth in order to blot out the name of God and of His Christ, to seize upon, slay and cast into eternal perdition souls destined for the crown of eternal glory. This wicked dragon pours out, as a most impure flood, the venom of his malice on men of depraved mind and corrupt heart, the spirit of lying, of impiety, of blasphemy, and the pestilent breath of impurity, and of every vice and iniquity. These most crafty enemies have filled and inebriated with gall and bitterness the Church, the spouse of the immaculate Lamb, and have laid impious hands on her most sacred possessions. In the Holy Place itself, where the See of Holy Peter and the Chair of Truth has been set up as the light of the world, they have raised the throne of their abominable impiety, with the iniquitous design

that when the Pastor has been struck, the sheep may be. Arise then, O invincible Prince, bring help against the attacks of the lost spirits to the people of God, and give them the victory. They venerate thee as their protector and patron; in thee holy Church glories as her defense against the malicious power of hell; to thee has God entrusted the souls of men to be established in heavenly beatitude. Oh, pray to the God of peace that He may put Satan under our feet, so far conquered that he may no longer be able to hold men in captivity and harm the Church. Offer our prayers in the sight of the Most High, so that they may quickly find mercy in the sight of the Lord; and vanquishing the dragon, the ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, do thou again make him captive in the abyss, that he may no longer seduce the nations. Amen.

Behold the Cross of the Lord; be scattered ye hostile powers. The Lion of the tribe of Judah has conquered the root of David. Let Thy mercies be upon us, O Lord. As we have hoped in Thee. O Lord, hear my prayer. And let my cry come unto Thee. Let us pray. O God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we call upon Thy holy Name, and as supplicants, we implore Thy clemency, that by the intercession of Mary, ever Virgin Immaculate and our Mother, and of the glorious St. Michael the Archangel, Thou wouldst deign to help us against Satan and all the other unclean spirits who wander about the world for the injury of the human race and the ruin of souls. Amen.

Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the malice and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen

Chaplet of Saint Michael

O God, come to my assistance. O Lord, make haste to help me. Glory be to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

(Say one Our Father and three Hail Marys) By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Seraphim may the Lord make us worthy to burn with the fire of perfect charity. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Cherubim may the Lord grant us the grace to leave the ways of sin and run in the paths of Christian perfection. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Thrones may the Lord infuse into our hearts a true and sincere spirit of humility. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Dominions may the Lord give us grace to govern our senses and overcome any unruly passions. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Powers may the Lord protect our souls against the snares and temptations of the devil. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Virtues may the Lord preserve us from evil and falling into temptation. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Principalities may God fill our souls with a true spirit of obedience. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of Archangels may the Lord give us perseverance in faith and in all good works in order that we may attain the glory of Heaven. Amen. By the intercession of St. Michael and the celestial Choir of

Angels may the Lord grant us to be protected by them in this mortal life and conducted in the life to come to Heaven. Amen. (Say one Our Father in honor of each of the following leading Angels: St. Michael, St. Gabriel, St. Raphael and our Guardian Angel.) O glorious prince St. Michael, chief and commander of the heavenly hosts, guardian of souls, vanquisher of rebel spirits, servant in the house of the Divine King and our admirable conductor, you who shine with excellence and superhuman virtue deliver us from all evil, who turn to you with confidence and enable us by your gracious protection to serve God more and more faithfully every day. Pray for us, O glorious St. Michael, Prince of the Church of Jesus Christ, that we may be made worthy of His promises. Almighty and Everlasting God, Who, by a prodigy of goodness and a merciful desire for the salvation of all men, has appointed the most glorious Archangel St. Michael Prince of Your Church, make us worthy, we ask You, to be delivered from all our enemies, that none of them may harass us at the hour of death, but that we may be conducted by him into Your Presence. This we ask through the merits of Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.

LITANY OF ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL

Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us. God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us. God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us. God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us. Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us. Holy Mary, Queen of the Angels, pray for us. St. Michael the Archangel, pray for us. Most glorious attendant of the Triune Divinity, pray for us. Standing at the right of the Altar of Incense, pray for us. Ambassador of Paradise, pray for us. Glorious Prince of the heavenly armies, pray for us. Leader of the angelic hosts, pray for us. Warrior who thrust Satan into Hell, pray for us. Defender against the wickedness and snares of the devil, pray for us. Standard-bearer of God’s armies, pray for us. Defender of divine

glory, pray for us. First defender of the Kingship of Christ, pray for us. Strength of God, pray for us. Invincible prince and warrior, pray for us. Angel of peace, pray for us. Guardian of the Christian Faith, pray for us. Guardian of the Legion of St. Michael, pray for us. Champion of God’s people, pray for us. Champion of the Legion of St. Michael, pray for us. Guardian angel of the Eucharist, pray for us. Defender of the Church, pray for us. Defender of the Legion of St. Michael, pray for us. Protector of the Sovereign Pontiff, pray for us. Protector of the Legion of St. Michael, pray for us. Angel of Catholic Action, pray for us. Powerful intercessor of Christians, pray for us. Bravest defender of those who hope in God, pray for us. Guardian of our souls and bodies, pray for us. Healer of the sick, pray for us. Help of those in their agony, pray for us. Consoler of the souls in Purgatory, pray for us. God’s messenger for the souls of the just, pray for us. Terror of the evil spirits, pray for us. Victorious in battle against evil, pray for us. Guardian and Patron of the Universal Church, pray for us. Guardian and Patron of the Legion of St. Michael, pray for us. Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord. Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us. Pray for us, O glorious St. Michael, That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Let Us Pray Sanctify us, we beseech You, O Lord, with Your holy blessing,

and grant us, by the intercession of St. Michael, that wisdom which teaches us to lay up treasures in Heaven by exchanging the goods of this world for those of eternity, You Who lives and reigns, world without end. Amen. Relying, O Lord, upon the intercession of Your blessed Archangel Michael, we humbly beg of You, that the Holy Eucharist in whose presence we kneel, may make our soul holy and pleasing to You. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

THE EXORCISM PRAYER AGAINST SATAN AND THE APOSTATE ANGELS FOR MISAS

RECITE STANDING: In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Let GOD arise and let His enemies be scattered: and let them that hate Him flee from before His Face! As smoke vanisheth, so let them vanish away: as wax melteth before the fire, so let the wicked perish at the Presence of GOD (Ps 67:1-2). Judge Thou, O' Lord, them that wrong me: overthrow them that fight against me. Let them be confounded and ashamed that seek after my soul. Let them be turned back and be confounded that devise evil against me. Let them become as dust before the wind: and let the Angel of the Lord straighten them. Let their way become dark and slippery: and let the Angel of the Lord pursue them. For without cause they have hidden their net for me unto destruction: without cause they have upbraided my soul. Let the snare which he knoweth not, come upon him: and let the net which he hath hidden, catch him: and into that very snare let him fall. But my soul shall rejoice in the Lord, and shall be delighted in His Salvation (Ps 34:1, 4-9). Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end, Amen. O' Most Glorious Prince of the Heavenly Armies, St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in the battle and in our wrestling against principalities and powers against the rulers of the world of this darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in the high places (Ephes 6:12). Come to the aid of men, whom GOD created incorruptible, and to the Image of His own Likeness He made him (Wis 2:23); and from the tyranny of the devil He bought him at a great price (Cor 7:23).

Fight the battles of the Lord today with the Army of the Blessed Angels, as once thou didst fight against lucifer, the leader of pride, and his apostate angels; and they prevailed not: neither was their place found anymore in Heaven. But that great dragon was cast out, the old serpent, who is called the devil and satan, who seduceth the whole world. And he was cast unto the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him (Apoc 12:8-9). Behold, the ancient enemy and murderer strongly raises his head! Transformed into an angel of light, with the entire horde of wicked spirits he goes about everywhere and takes possession of the earth, so that therein he may blot out the Name of GOD and of His Christ and steal away, afflict and ruin into everlasting destruction the souls destined for a Crown of Eternal Glory. On men depraved in mind and corrupt in heart the wicked dragon pours out like a most foul river, the poison of his villany, a spirit of lying, impiety and blasphemy; and the deadly breath of lust and of all iniquities and vices. Her most crafty enemies have engulfed the Church, the Spouse of the Immaculate Lamb, with sorrows, they have drenched her with wormwood; on all her desirable things they have laid their wicked hands. Where the See of the Blessed Peter and the Chair of Truth have been set up for the light of the gentiles, there they have placed the throne of the abomination of their wickedness, so that, the Pastor having been struck, they may also be able to scatter the flock. Therefore, O' thou unconquerable Leader, be present with the people of GOD and against the spiritual wickedness which are bursting in upon them; and bring them the victory. The Holy Church venerates thee as its Guardian and Patron; and it glories in the fact that thou art its Defender against the wicked powers of earth and hell. To thee the Lord has assigned the

souls of the redeemed to be placed in Heavenly bliss. Beseech the GOD of Peace to crush satan under our feet, that he may no more be able to hold men captive and to harm the Church. Offer our prayers in the sight of the Most High, so that the mercies of the Lord may quickly come to our aid, that thou mayest seize the dragon, the ancient serpent, who is the devil and satan and that having bound him, thou mayest cast him into the bottomless pit, so that he may no more seduce the nations (Apoc 20:3). Hence confiding in thy protection and guardianship, by the sacred authority of our ministry, we confidently and securely begin the task in the Name of Jesus Christ our GOD and Lord, of driving away the attacks of diabolical deceit. LEADER: Behold the Cross of the Lord, flee away ye hostile forces. ALL: The lion of the tribe of Juda, the root of David hath conquered LEADER: May Thy mercy, O' Lord, be upon us. ALL: Since we have hoped in Thee. LEADER: O' Lord, hear my prayer. ALL: And let my cry come unto Thee. LEADER: The Lord be with you, ALL: And with thy spirit. LEADER: LET US PRAY:

O' GOD and Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ, we invoke Thy Holy Name, and we humbly implore Thy mercy, that by the intercession of the Mother of GOD Mary Immaculate Ever Virgin, of Blessed Michael the Archangel, of Blessed Joseph the Spouse of the same Blessed Virgin, of the Blessed Apostles Peter and Paul and of all the Saints, Thou wouldst deign to afford us help against satan and all the other unclean spirits and against whatever wanders throughout the world to do harm to the human race and to ruin souls, through the same Christ Our Lord, Amen. We exorcise thee, O' every unclean spirit, satanic power, infernal invader, wicked legion, assembly and sect; in the Name and by the power of Our Lord Jesus Christ (+); may thou be snatched away and driven from the Church of GOD and from the souls made to the Image and Likeness of GOD and redeemed by the Precious Blood of the Divine Lamb (+). Most cunning serpent, thou shalt no more dare to deceive the human race, persecute the Church, torment GOD's elect and sift them as wheat (+). The Most High GOD commands thee (+). He with whom in your great insolence, thou still claimest to be equal; He who wants all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the Truth (1 Tim 2:4). GOD the Father commands thee (+), GOD the Son commands thee (+), GOD the Holy Spirit commands thee (+). The Majesty of Christ, the Eternal Word of GOD made flesh, commands thee (+); He Who to save our race outdone through thy envy, "humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death" (Phil 2:8). He who has built His Church on the firm rock and declared that the gates of hell shall never prevail against Her, because He will dwell with Her "all days even to the end of the world" (Mat 28:20). The Sacred Sign of the Cross commands thee (+), as does also the power of the Mysteries of the Christian Faith (+), the Glorious Mother of GOD, the Virgin Mary, commands thee (+); She who by

Her humility and from the first moment of Her Immaculate Conception, crushed thy proud head. The faith of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul and of the other Apostles command thee (+). The Blood of the Martyrs and the pious intercession of all the Saints command thee (+). Thus, cursed dragon and thee diabolical legion, we adjure thee by the Living GOD (+), by the True GOD (+), by the Holy GOD (+), by the GOD "who so loved the world that He gave up His Only Son, that every soul believing in Him might not perish but have life everlasting" (John 17:1-3); stop deceiving human creatures and pouring out to them the poison of eternal damnation; stop harming the Church and ensnaring her liberty. BEGONE, Satan, inventor and master of all deceit, enemy of man's salvation. Give place to Christ in whom thou hast found none of your works; give place to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church acquired by Christ at the price of His Blood. Stoop beneath the powerful Hand of GOD; tremble and flee when we invoke the Holy and terrible Name of Jesus, this Name which cause hell to tremble, this Name to which the Virtues, Powers and Dominations of Heaven are humbly submissive, this Name to which the Virtues, Powers and Dominations of Heaven are humbly submissive, this Name which the Cherubim and Seraphim praise unceasingly repeating: Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord, the GOD of Armies! LEADER: O' Lord, hear my prayer, ALL: And let my cry come unto Thee LEADER: May the Lord be with thee, ALL: And with thy spirit.

LEADER: LET US PRAY: GOD of Heaven, GOD of Earth, GOD of Angels, GOD of Archangels, GOD of Patriarchs, GOD of Prophets, GOD of Apostles, GOD of Martyrs, GOD of Confessors, GOD of Virgins, GOD Who has power to give life after death and rest after work, because there is no other GOD than Thee and there can be no other, for Thou art the Creator of all things, visible and invisible, of whose Reign there shall be no end. We humbly prostrate ourselves before Thy Glorious Majesty and we beseech Thee to deliver us by Thy Power from all the tyranny of the infernal spirits, from their snares, their lies and their furious wickedness; deign, O' Lord, to grant us Thy powerful protection and to keep us safe and sound. We beseech Thee through Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen. LEADER: From the snares of the devil, ALL: Deliver us O' Lord. LEADER: Grant that Thy Church may serve Thee in secure liberty, ALL We beseech Thee, hear us. LEADER: Deign to crush down the enemies of the Holy Church, ALL: We beseech Thee, hear us. LEADER: Holy Water is sprinkled in the place where he may be. ALL: St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in the day of battle; be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May GOD rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, O' Prince of

the Heavenly Host, by the Power of GOD, cast into hell Satan and all the other evil spirits, who prowl throughout the world, seeking the ruin of souls, Amen. LEADER: Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, ALL: Have mercy on us. NOTE: (+) denotes that the Sign of the Cross is to be made: "In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen," between the prayer, as indicated.

Erzulie Freda & Erzulie Dantor

A long time ago in Africa there once lived a beautiful, noble and powerful queen named Maîtresse Erzulie. She rulled wisley in a kingdom known as Whydah, Dahomey in what is presently known as the Republic of Benin Maîtresse Erzulie greatly respected and loved because she was known for her skills in commercial trading which not only benefited her kingdom but all her people. Maîtresse Erzulie was

so skilled in the arts of trading that she not only traded with surrounding villages but also with other nations which made her very wealthy. One night when the moon was under the Black Moon as Maîtresse Erzulie was fast asleep a male intruder came into her room and sexually assaulted the Queen. The intruder disguised his face in a mask and who he was, was never revealed to the Queen. Since the Queen never knew the identity of the rapist, she kept the incident a secret from her subjects, in the fears that it would create a civil war amongst her people. As time passed Maîtresse Erzulie realized that she was pregnant, and to keep her subjects calm she blamed the pregnancy on a deity who visited her from the heavens above and had intercourse with her. This of course made her subjects happy as the child within her womb would be a divine child. Maîtresse Erzulie was then brought to the Great Diviner who would fortell the future of the child within her womb. When the diviner cast his bones and shells, he saw that within Maîtresse Erzulie's womb grew two female fetuses, and that a day would come when they to would be queens and that the day would come when people all around the world would love and venerate them greatly. After 9 months Maîtresse Erzulie did give birth to two healthy baby girls. One was a beautiful dark skin child with thick curly hair and eyes as black as cole, the other child was a mulatta with lighter skin, straight brunette hair and eyes as blue as the ocean. The twins where named after her, the darker complexion child was named Erzulie Dantor and the lighter child was named Erzulie Freda. Although the conception of the twins filled Maîtresse Erzulie with nightmares, and she never truly trusted men, she also never confided to any one how she had conceived the girls through rape. She loved the girls more than she had ever loved anyone in her life as they had come to fill a void

within her life that no one could fill. As the twin daughters were not identical, they were different in every way. Erzulie Freda loved music and dancing, enjoyed jewellery and perfumes, was very feminine and was partial to wearing pink, light blue, white, yellow, orange and gold. Erzulie Dantor was less feminine and enjoyed the arts of battles and weaponry and was partial to wearing clothes of red, green and navy blue. No child on the earth before them or after them could wish for a greater mother, as Maîtresse Erzulie was known for being a noble queen, she also was a good mother, and taught her daughters everything from the arts of magic, herbalism, divination, fortune telling, she taught them the mysteries of the moon, stars the sun, and of all the beauties that life had to offer. Maîtresse Erzulie instructed them on how to one day be noble and just queens as she was. But one knowledge Maîtresse Erzulie could not teach her daughters was the mysteries of the love a woman feels for a man, as she herself had never been in love with a man, had no interest in male companionship and she could not teach her daughter's these mysteries. As Erzulie Dantor and Erzulie Freda grew into young ladies a time had come when strange white missionary men from across the seas came to their kingdom. The missionaries at first observing the twins could not agree which one was the more beautiful of the two, as each was stunning in the eyes of all who laid eyes upon them. But one thing the missionaries from across the sea could not get over was the exotic look of Erzulie Freda, and how different her skin tone was to that of the rest of the subjects in the kingdom. They especially were in aw of Erzulie Freda's blue eyes which resembled the color of the seas and skies. They asked Queen Maîtresse Erzulie if they could bring Erzulie Freda across the sea to their home in Spain, where Erzulie Freda would receive education amongst the royal Spanish crown and be schooled in the mysteries of Christianity, they also promised Maîtresse Erzulie that Erzulie Freda would become as a Spanish aristocratic noble woman. Maîtresse Erzulie could not bare the thought of loosing one of her beloved

child, but although the pain stabbed her within her heart like a jagged blade, she knew deep within her heart that this would be beneficial not only to Erzulie Freda in being a posative ambassador for Dahomey but also in establishing a relationship with the white man of the royal kingdom of Spain. So with great pain within her chest Maîtresse Erzulie gave permission for the missionaries to take her daughter with them across the seas. On the day that Erzulie Freda was to depart Maîtresse Erzulie and Erzulie Dantor took her to the port to wish her farewell, Maîtresse Erzulie began to morn her child for she did not know that it would be seven years of pain within her heart before she would set eyes again on her beloved Erzulie Freda.

ERZULIE DANTOR

So deep was the love of the Queen for her daughter, that she stood on the shore until the ship faded into the horizon. All the while Maîtresse Erzulie cast flower petals into the ocean praying to the great mother La Sirene Yemonja to watch and protect her child. After a few years of Erzulie Freda's departure from Dahomey,

Maîtresse Erzulie's kingdom had witnessed many wars. First came the iinvasion of the Arabian then came the invasion of the Egyptians, each with the intent of stealing the wealth of her kingdom and enslaving her people. Although Maîtresse Erzulie was known as a noble and just Queen, she was also known as a fierce warrior, and although she and her kingdom fought courageously she knew very well that her army's strength was dwindling. Worried, Maîtresse Erzulie sent an urgent message to the great warrior king of southwestern Nigeria, Ogun, in the message she wrote that if Ogun would send an army of his finest warriors to help her kingdom in the battles and wars that befell them; that she would give her daughter's Erzulie Dantor hand in matrimony to he who aided her in leading her people into victorty. Ogun being one of the most respected and feared warrior Kings in all of Africa sent his two eldest sons, Ogun Balendjo and Ogun Badagris, each accompanied by the fiercest and bravest legion of warriors. When Ogun Balendjo and Ogun Badagris arrived at the palace of Maîtresse Erzulie she was moved to tears at seeing that Ogun's eldest sons where in fact twin brothers and like her daughters one was darker and the other lighter. Ogun Balendjo was a handsome strong dark muscular knight while Ogun Badagris was equally handsome, equally as muscular and built but was of a lighter skin complexion with auburn hair. Erzulie Dantor immediately became attracted to Ogun Balendjo, while.the lighter Ogun Badagris immediately felt a deep attraction to the ebony princess Erzulie Dantor. Both Ogun Balendjo and Ogun Badagris defended Maîtresse Erzulie kingdom fiercely, and they fought valiantly any and all intruders that dare come to attack the kingdom. But in the mists of a great battle Ogun Badagris was wounded badly to the point that he had to be removed from the battlefield. His brother Ogun Balendjo fought like no other single warrior had before or after him, with the exception of his father Ogun, who was the greatest warrior Earth has ever known. Ogun Balendjo fought so bravely that he was the last man standing in the battlefield.

Overjoyed with contentment Maîtresse Erzulie fulfilled the promise she had made of giving Erzulie Freda's hand in marriage to Ogun Balendjo. This of course added to Ogun Badagris wounds as he had secretly fallen deeply in love with Erzulie Freda and had wished to have made her his wife. Prior to the battles and the Ogun brothers setting foot in Dahomey, Erzulie Freda who had been taken to Spain to receive formal education in a monastery, had finished her schooling and was on her way back to her native homeland. On her journey through Cadiz Spain into Moracco, Africa the beautiful princess was kidnapped by a band of thieves and sold into prostitution. Erzulie Freda was a young and beautiful mulatta that was neither black nor white and she was an exquisite jewell to all who laid eyes upon her. This made her very popular amongst her forced clientele who visited the brothel, as her lips were as sweet as honey and her skin had the faint aroma of cinnamon, citrus fruits and anise. Her clientele where so charmed by her beauty that they showered her with gifts of golden charms, jewelry, perfumes, scented oils, cloths from Egypt, the Orient and money that rivaled that of any empress that had lived at the time. Erzulie Freda's strength to endure this atrocity forced upon her was that she secretly stashed away most of her profits and all of the gifts her clientele gave her with the hopes to somehow escape the lifestyle she was forced to live and return to her mother's kingdom. And while she smiled, laughed, danced and seemed merry to all who saw her, alone at night in her chambers she would weep for what her life had become.

ERZULIE FREDA

With her fame and fortune, Erzulie Freda plotted her escape from this undignified lifestyle that she had been forced to live. One night when the moon was as black and the night she and her sister were conceived, she gathered all her belongings and escaped her confinement. She made it back up north to Cadiz, Spain where she meet an African pirate by the name of Ague Taroyo. Erzulie Freda quickly recognized that Ague Toroyo's accent was similar to that of the people of her mothers kingdom. Erzulie Freda begged Ague Taroyo to return her back to her mother's kingdom, and that she would give a big reward if he did so. Ague Taroyo knew well the queen and although he was the greatest pirate the earth had ever seen, he had heard the stories of how one of the Queen's daughters had been taken to Spain. In part because of the great respect he had for Maîtresse Erzulie and because he as all men could not resist the powerful beauty of Erzulie Freda he agreed to return her back to Dahomey to her mother's kingdom free of charge. Especially since he was going to the port of Whydah and Guinea, how could he refuse. When they arrived at the port of Whydah, Ague Taroyo sent a messenger to Maîtresse Erzulie, that after seven long years her daughter Erzulie Freda had returned home. The Queen Maîtresse Erzulie was overjoyed with the news that her daughter had finally

arrived home, she wanted to prepare the biggest feast ever witnessed; as she sent a Caravan of escorts with the great Ogun Balendjo leading the group. This was great news for Maîtresse Erzulie since her daughter Erzulie Dantor would marry Ogun Balendjo within a few days, and now the great return of her daughter Erzulie Freda filled her heart with joy. This would be a week of festivities thought Maîtresse Erzulie. But when Ogun Balendjo set eyes on the beauty of Erzulie Freda he felt an instant attraction, never had his eyes seen such an exquisite beautiful mulatta with eyes as blue as the skies above and seas below. Erzulie Freda also felt a sudden attraction to Ogun Balendjo, never had she set eyes on such a tall, noble, muscular, elegant handsome man in her life. Although Erzulie Freda's sister Erzulie Dantor was equally as beautiful, Ogun Balendjo had never felt such an instant attraction to a woman in all his life.

OGUN BALENDJO

Ogun Balendjo plotted within his head, how was he to make Erzulie Freda his wife, so he escorted her the long way home, and spoke to her the most beautiful words he had ever said, for Erzulie Freda's beauty inspired the great warrior poetic words that flowed like honey through his lips. When they reached the Osun River in Nigria the love for them was strong and they made love by the river banks.

After the long journey through Nigeria that should have been short they finally made it to the palace of Maîtresse Erzulie. The Queen was overjoyed and the biggest feast the kingdom had ever seen had commenced. During the festivities Erzulie Freda asked to speak privately with her mother. In the courtyard Erzulie Freda confessed her undying love for Ogun Balendjo and if there was a way that the Queen could break off the marriage of Ogun Balendjo with her sister Erzulie Dantor. Maîtresse Erzulie was a wise Queen beyond words and always found an answer or solution to any and all problems, but this one truly had her puzzled. How could she as a mother take away the happiness of one daughter to give to another? After awhile of contemplation she finally answered. "Erzulie Freda you are my daughter as is Erzulie Dantor, and I would give anything in my kingdom to you, I would gladly give my life for you both. But what you ask is beyond my power, and something I cannot possibly give. My answer to you is to speak with your sister Erzulie Dantor and see if she would agree to break off the commitment she has to Ogun Balendjo and give him freely to you." Erzulie Freda knew deep within her heart that her sister Erzulie Dantor would never agree to such a notion, for both sisters where very zealous of what they perceived as personal properties. Erzulie Freda then devised a plot, she asked her sister Erzulie Dantor to meet her in the gardens in the outskirts of the palace, alone without Erzulie Dantor bringing her loyal house madiens. She asked her sister to meet her under the large Pomarrosa tree. Hidden within her breasts she had a dagger. When Erzulie Dantor arrived Erzulie Freda told her of her love for Ogun Balendjo and that they had made love by the banks of the Osun river where the Goddess Oshun had blessed their union. Erzulie Dantor's first reaction was that of sorrow, as tears formed in her eyes, but being a great warrior as was her mother, she quickly became enraged and physically attacked her sister under the great

Pamarossa tree. Erzulie Freda was preparred for the outcome and quickly withdrew the dagger from her breasts and sliced her sister on the right side of the cheak two deep gashes. But Erzulie Dantor was a greater warrior than her sister and was able to subdue her sister and take the dagger from her. Then Erzulie Dantor plunged the dagger straight into Erzulie Freda's heart leaving her for dead, she left her there under the Pamarrosa tree. But Erzulie Dantor did have great love for her sister as remorse filled her heart of the tragedy that had unfolded. She then went to the Queen's chambers and told her mother what had happened and that Erzulie Freda lay under the tree. The Queen Maîtresse Erzulie sent men to bring her her daughter as quickly as possible. When Erzulie Freda was carried into the palace she was almost dead. Maîtresse Erzulie fearing loosing her daughter's life, sent for all the greatest healers of the nation, but none could restore Erzulie Freda back to health, until the great forest hermit Ogun Osanje the greatest healer and master herbalist came. He alone was able to restore Erzulie Freda's health with his magic and knowledge of all healing herbs and medicine. One night when Erzulie Freda was recovering Ogun Balendjo sneaked into her room and proposed that that very night they would escape the kingdom and never part from each others side. After the fight with her sister Erzulie Freda had grown remorse for her actions against Erzulie Dantor, but her great love for Ogun Balendjo was stronger still, and although she knew Ogun Balendjo and her sister Erzulie Dantor were to wed the following day, she became blindsided by the overwhelming love she felt for Ogun Balendjo and agreed to escape with him. That night they rode on Ogun Balendjo's trusted white steed to the a near port where Ague Taroyo's ship docked for the night. Ogun Balendjo paid a large fee and Ague Taroyo set sail to another far off port in a faraway country. Unknown to both Ezili Dantor and Maîtresse Erzulie that Erzulie Freda and Ogun Balndjo had left during the night they proceed with the plans for the wedding. But unknown to Erzulie Dantor

this would not start off as a happy occasion, until she realized that Ogun Balendjo was not going to show up for their wedding. There in front of the altar and the wedding guests stood Erzulie Dantor, and when humiliation crept on her because she realized that her husband to be was no where in sight, did she began to cry tears of rage and sorrow. So frustrated was Erzulie Dantor that the wounds upon her face opened and began to bleed. Just when all was lost, Ogun Badagris who had always loved her came before her and her guests riding his black steed. He went before her and tenderly dried the blood that formed from tears as well as the blood that came from her wounds. Then he declared infront of all who where present before them, his undying love towards her, and asked her if she would be his wife. Just then Erzulie Dantor realized that she had been betrothed to the wrong brother. As she looked deep into Ogun Badagri's blue eyes, she realized that she had fallen in love with him, and excerpted to be his wife, they wed that day and nine months later she gave birth to a young daughter that she named Maisia Noquea who would be born as dark and as lovely as her mother, but with the blue eyes of her father. Although Erzulie Dantors rage and desire for vengeance against her sister and her would be husband Ogun Balendjo grew and would never truly be forgiven, she found solace in her beautiful daughter and in her husband Ogun Badagris who was a faithful and loving husband. Maîtresse Erzulie felt the greatest fury and betrayal a mother could feel, and after the wedding ordered her new son in law Ogun Badagris army to search for both Erzulie Freda and Ogun Balendjo, but they could not find them in all of Africa, as they had made their way to a far off undiscovered continent far away. But Maîtresse Erzulie knew that the day would come when she would unleash her fury on Ogun Balendjo as he was one of the heirs to the throne of his father Ogun's kingdom of Oyo in Nigeria.

OGUN BADAGRIS

As years passed Erzulie Freda who had changed her name to Metre Sili so that she would not be found, sent message with the sea pirate Ague Taroyo to Africa. For she, Erzulie Freda ( Metre Sili ) could never live in peace knowing the betrayal and wrong she had done to her sister, and wanted to ask forgiveness from both. Erzulie Dantor would never forgive her but the Queen Maîtresse Erzulie who had taken the name Gran Sili because this is what her first grandchild Maisia Noquea called her yearned to see Erzulie Freda again, for as any mother Maîtresse Erzulie ( Gran Sili ) would always forgive her children. She sent a message with Ague Taroyo, that she had forgiven her and that she named a province of her kingdom Fredah in which she would leave for Erzulie Freda to rule and govern. Although Erzulie Dantor never got a chance to seek her wrathful vengeance on Erzulie Freda, Destiny, Karma and Fate as they usually do made sure to take matters into their own hands. For Erzulie Freda and Ogun Balendjo were never truly happy. Ogun Balendjo was known to be an unfaithful husband, and had lovers and wives in every port and city he visited; and although Erzulie Freda suffered her husband's womanizing infidelities she too could be vengeful and married Ague Taroyo, and then Dambalah.

Although Ogun Balendjo was a womanizer he always loved Erzulie Freda dearly as did she him. Erzulie Dantor also made it to the new world with her husband Ogun Badagris, and between both Erzulie Freda and Erzulie Dantor they had many children, each named after their grandmother Gran Sili. Such as Erzulie Balianne, Erzulie Mansur, Erzulie Mapiangue, Erzulie Yeux Rouge, Erzulie Yeux Rouge, Erzulie Toho, Erzulie La Flambeau, Erzulie Wangol, Since then and until the ends of time, although Erzulie Dantor secreatly loves her sister she can not find it in her heart to ever forgive her the betrayal and shame she put her through. This story of the two Metresa Loases is similar to the rivalry held between the Orisha Ochun, Oya and Obba, some versions of the Orisha tale might include Yewa and Yemaya. On the altar Erzulie Dantor is kept cose to Ogun Badgris while Erzulie Freda is kept close to Ogun Balendjo. .

SANTA MARTA LA DOMINADORA SAINT MARTHA THE DOMINATOR

Santa Marta La Dominadora, haz que la culebra no decienda ahora. Salve La Morocha,Salve La Morena, Dios Salve a la Morocha, Dios Salve a la Morena, Santa Marta la Dominadora.

Saint Martha th Dominator, do not allow the serpent to desend apon me now. All Hail the brunette. All Hail, the brown skinned one. God Save the brunette, God Save the brown skinned one, Santa Martha the Dominatrix. Santa Marta la Dominadora is a complicated Loa, a Misterio that pertains to various Nations of Loa. She is a Ghuede or Ghuedesa, as she works closely within the Cemetery, protects sacred burial grounds and ushers the Spirits of the Dead, she is a Metresa, which are female Loases that govern over human emotions such as Love, desire and passion, she is a Rada Loa as ancient as time immortal, but in the new world she is a Petro Loa, because of her fierce and fiery nature, and lastly she works with the Simbi Loa family, which are the spirits of ancient life and are symbolized as serpent Spirits that pertain to the first cells that created life on earth and govern over sorcery and magic. Santa Marta la Dominadora or Saint Martha the Dominator as she is known in English is an unpredictable Loa that is known as a Saint, a Sorceress, a witch, a healer and even a Demon. She is like the serpent that embodies her essence, when left alone she can be a docile and beautiful creature, but tampered or disrespected she can be dangerous and deadly. She is as the Simbi loa, such as Gran Simbi, Simbi D'l'eau, Dambalah, Oshumare, and Ayida Wedo, because she slithers like a snake, and does not communicate through her voice, but telepathically, and the sounds she does make are the hisses of serpents and snakes. Her eyes are said to be so piercing and so dominating, that even the most powerful Demons from hell would freeze and cower back.

There is a Spanish proverb that says. 'Con los Santos no se Juega!". "With the Saints, one should not Play!". If this is to be true of any Saint, then with no other would it apply to as much as it would with Santa Marta la Dominadora. To play or "work" Santa Marta la Dominadora with no proper knowledge or complete reverence is like playing alone in a dessert with a rattle snake. My advice, do not disturb La Culebra "the snake' because quite frankly it is not as easy as most people think. As Santa Marta la Dominadora is a powerful Sorceress many people petition her in magic often to dominate others, love magic, or controlling others. As she is powerful, often times she gives that which we ask, but with a high price. She slithers, drags and unleashes her wanga and bilongo magic, but it comes as a double edged sword, at any moment it can come back and strike you dead, or take away that which you value the most. When it comes to Santa Marta La Dominadora, the saying, "be careful what you wish for" is of great importance. As the Petro.Loa are fierce, imagine adding Guede, and Simbi into the recipe and one will get a Loa that is as unpredictable and as complicated as they come. She is like the Medusa of Greek mythology, beautiful to look at her reflection, but one glance into her fiery red eyes would transform even the Sun itself into a cold piece of stone. Although she is a Petro Loa she is also considered a Rada Loa, and as the Petro Loases, when angered or disrespected the Rada can harbor and unleash a fury that rivals that of any Petro Loa. As a Sancista it is my responsibility to inform you that many experienced individuals invoke Santa Marta La Dominadora for black magic, sorcery, enchantments, evil intentions and unleashing evil spirits or demons on rivals. Again this reminds me of a Spanish proverb, Uno no puede tapar el cielo con solo

un dedo. (One can not cover up the sky with one finger, or burying your head in the sand /ignoring the gravity of a situation, or wilfully ignore something.). Often these very individuals who work Santa Marta la Dominadora for these wicked intentions pay the high price, often illnesses reach them, early deaths fall upon their loved ones, they become mentally unstable, and paranoid. It is in this aspect that Santa Marta la Dominadora becomes like the ancient Ouroboros or Uroborus, the serpent or dragon that eats its own tail, until nothing, not even a carcass is left. It is my responsibility to advice in not using any Saint, Loa, or Orisha for personal gain, dominating or sorcery, especially Santa Marta la Dominadora. One should invoke her for protection from evil spirits and demons, or healing over black magic, protection or dominating occult enemies who only wish you harm, but again one must be very careful, and with good intentions. One can also invoke or venerate her for peace of the home, peace with family members, and within work and healing the damages caused by black magic. What is the point of getting even on an enemy, when all they desire is your misery. Petition her for strength, endurance, and stability, no vengeance is sweeter than that of knowing that your enemies have no power or control over you. Even this will enrage the strongest sorcerer and have him/her doubt his/her own abilities, it is through this that we should petition Santa Martha la Dominadora. In dominating our very own inner demons, greed, desires, trials and tribulations. Many individuals who often work or petition Santa Marta la Dominadora have no idea who she is or what she represents. They have no clue of her history, her origin or if in fact this Saint, as is with any Saint, makes up a part of ones Cuadro Espiritual. Many who petition her especially those outside of Dominican 21 Division, Puerto Rican Sanse or Haitian Vodou, do not know how she would act in sacred ceremonies, and still often those who do not understand her completely would confuse her for a tortured

soul, earth bound spirit, intranquil spirit or demon, if in fact she even would make her pressense known. Since in fact she only works with her Servidores, because she as all Loa have little patience for games. Often Santa Marta la Dominadora who is a fiery spirit will often scare the living hell out of those who do not know her or have a history with her. Many people outside of those religions and traditions that properly respect and honor her, go to the internet, as you are reading this one now, and believe themselves to be experts of the Mysteries. This is far from the truth, because not even we who are the Servidores de los Misterios know the Mysteries completely, hence the word Mysteries. (Definition of Mystries : a religious truth that one can know only by revelation and cannot fully understand. A secret religious rite believed to impart enduring bliss to the initiate: a cult devoted to such rites: something not understood or beyond understanding: a private secret : the secret or specialized practices or ritual peculiar to an occupation or a body of people: profound, inexplicable, or secretive quality or character.) These very individuals read the prayers, light the candles, and even set up altars in ways that are not respectable, not just to Santa Marta la Dominadora, but to any Spirit, Loa, Misterio or Orisha or the religions that practice them. Many say, that the Loas or Orisha work for them, that they do not need to follow the traditions that have honored them with great respect. I say yes, they often do listen, but darkness is a thresh hold that can so easily be crossed, and it is at this very thresh hold that the furies of these ancient spirits await. Often time the Misteries do comply, but again often times these individuals forget to give thanks, and agknowledge properly that which the Loa have given, and it is at these times when bitterness, tribulations and greater losses arise.

LA SERPIENTE Y LA DOMINADORA. THE SERPENT AND THE DOMINATRESS THE LEGEND

Santa Marta la Dominadora within the Puerto Rican Sanse tradition and Dominican 21 Division is known as one of el Baron del Cementerio's Nine daughters, her real name is Filomena Lubana. Traditional African folklore states that a young orphan boy was wondering at night through a burial ground that was directly near a swamp. The orphan was honoring the anniverery of his mothers death, who was the eldest female buried on the grounds. (Barona / Baronesa) Filomena Lubana was also at the burial grounds that very night honoring her father's grave who as the orphan boy's, was one of the oldest of the graves, (Baron) but obviosly holding a male carcass. Suddenly the orphan boy was surrounded by serpents who began to encoil themselves

around the young boy to squeeze the life out of him and swollow him whole. Filomena Lubana who was in deep silent prayer and meditation herd the struggle from a distance and ran to investigate. When she saw the attack on the small boy, and being of a fierce warrior lineage, she went and attacked the serpents that were about to eat the orphan. Filomena Lubana then asked the orphan where his father was, and he replied he had never known him. Filomena Lubana who was known as a fierce warrior and at the time was childless took pitty on the young boy and raised him as her own.

TRADITIONAL PRAYER TO SANTA MARTA LA DOMINADORA

Many of the tradional prayers of Santa Marta have one thing in common, they are prayers of dominating a wayward or strayed lover. The following prayer falls also under that chategory, but it is an old Spanish prayer, rarerly if ever seen written in English. This prayers demonstrates that which people often ask of La Dominadora.

ORACION A SANTA MARTA LA DOMINADORA Spanish Marta, Marta, la que los vientos levanta la que los Diablos encanta la que guiso los vinos a los finados, la que quita los dientes a los ahorcados La que desenterra os huesos a los enterrados. La que con Doña Maria de Padilla trata y conversa.. La que los nueve hijos pario y todos nueve se le desminuyeron… Asi como esto es verdad, me bayas al corazon de Fulano de Tal y me le

quites tres gotas de sangre, donde quiera que estuviere melo traygas, presto corriendo, volando donde yo (nombre) estoy; asi me lo amarres y amanses y me le pongas el amor en su corazon, para que me quiera, y en su memoria me tenga, que no me pueda olvidar, ni de noche ni de dia donde quiera que estuviere, para que ninguna mujer donde quiera que estuviere no tenga sosiego ni pueda comer ni dormir sino fuere conmigo ni pueda tener otra mujer.

English

Martha, Martha, the one who raises the winds, the one that Demons lust over. The one that pours then serves the wine over the deceased, The one that pulls the teaths of the hangedman. The one that digs up the bones of those that are buried. The one who sits with Mistress Maria de Padilla to converse. The one that bore nine children, and nine she buried. As this is the truth I ask you to enter into the heart of (n.n.), and from him remove three drops of blood. Where ever he may be I ask that you bring him to me. Bring him walking, running but is a haist, bind and tame him and place love only for me within his heart. May he love me and in his every thoughts may I be pressent. May he not forget me, night nor day, and where ever he may be, may he only think of me, and with no other woman whatsoever may he find peace and comfort. May he not rest, nor

work, walk, nor run with his mind on any other woman but me. This I humbly ask you Santa Marta la Dominadora.

VUELTAS DE SANTA MARTA LA DOMINADORA THE PATHS OF SAINT MARTHA THE DOMINATOR Marta La Bruja

SILI KENWA / ESILI QUENWA Before I go into the paths of Santa Marta la Dominadora which are known as vueltas, I would like to speak of Ezili Quenua, also

spelled Sili Quenua or Sili Kenwa. In the Dominican Republic it is this Misterio that is sinchrenized and associated with the Biblical Saint Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus. To make matters more complicated as they are with those traditions that honor the Lwa, "Loa,, Loases", in Haiti the manifistation of Sili Kenwa is Erzulie Coeur Noir, or 'Black Hearted Esili". It is Sili Kenwa who is known as the ancient witch of the swamps, known also as Marta La Bruja, or Martha the Witch. Sili Kenwa works wangas together with Marta la Dominadora, usually in dominating the five senses, not just of humans but of other Misterios and Demons alike. She holds a torch which demonstrates that she is a Petro Lwa, that is very hot tempered. In her hand she holds a Bible, which is the symbol of a Witches book of sorcery and magic and undernearth she holds a lantern which is the vessel she keeps the ingredients to her magic. At her feet behind her stands the Dragon known as Tarasque which is ofren associated with el Espiritu Dominante. Many people outside of Caribbean traditions associate the biblical Saint Martha with Lubana Filomena.

Filomena Lubana

The Misterio known as Lubana Filomena is the one who is always portrayed as the Snake Charmer. She is as Dominican as Merengue and Bachata. Legend has it that the name Lubana Filomena comes from a Folkloric Dominican Aftican Slave by the name of Juana Saltitopa who was known as La Negra Filomena. Who was known as a Dominican Black woman who in the 1860s faught for the independence of her people. As with many African woman Juana Saltitopa's name was never recorded in historical texts, but her legend lived and lives on amongst the Afro Dominicans who venerate her as a Highly elevated ancestral spirit and is the base behind what is much of the folklore and legend of Lubana Filomena / Santa Marta la Dominadora Dominicana. She is also known as Marta La Colora, or Martha the Red haired one, who was a mulatta of brown skin and blood red hair. She in this aspect is often split into two avatars, Marta la Negra or Marta la Prieta, the more docile of the two and then Marta la Colora, the one who has a temperment that rivals that of the Furies of Hell. Marta la Colora is often associated with Santa Marta de la Bandera.

MARTA DE LA BANDERA

Marta Ghede

Marta Ghede or Marta Guede is the consort and companion of el Baron de Cementerio, in this aspect she is not only viewed as the Serpent that lives within the cemetery but also as the serpent, rodants and insects that consumes the flesh of the dead when it begins to dicampose. In this aspect she symbolizes, that from death, life is sustained, and through life so shall death follow. In this avatar she is also know as Marta Guedelia, one of el Baron del Cementerio's most beloved children. Hear she is seen as Eve in the garden with the Serpent on the Tree of Good and Evil known as BIBI CEIBA.

MARTA GUEDE, MARTA GEDE

Marta Mambo

Marta Mambo or Mambosa is the ancient mother of humanity, especially the black race. She is the first female womam, the dark skin beauty who knows all the knowledge of healing and herbology. She is a Curandera, a Hierbera and a Bruja. She is the one who instructs the first humans in the knowledge of herbology, through trial and error. Herbs can save life as easy as it can take a life. Mambosa is a stern, strict and often severe Loa, unapologetic and dangerous.

Marta Gunguna

MARTA GUNGUNA

Marta Gunguna is the daughter of the Loa known as Gunguna. In this aspect she is a priestess and healer, she heals all the ailmemts that aflict humanity. In this aspect she is also known as a Medium and bestows Mediumistic abilities on humans, it is in this vuelta that she is able to communicate with the Spirits of the dead. Marta Gunguna is synchrenized with the Biblical Witch Medium of Endor, Saul and the Witch of Endor in I Samuel chapter 28

Marta Pye

MARTA PYE

Marta Pye / Marta Pie pronounced Peeh Yeh is respected and venerated on the southern border that seperates Haiti from the Dominican Republic. Although the Pie Nation of Loa are not widely known outside of Haiti with the exception of Anaisa Pye. Marta Pye is fastly becoming a popular Loa outside of the island of Hispañola as her Haitian and Dominican followers and children migrate to Puerto Rico and the west coast of the United States. Although in Haitian Vodou she is of the fiery Petro Division and is seen as a dark skinned Loa, in the Dominican Republic she is part of the Airy Rada Division and is seen as having white skin. The image used to represent Marta Pye is that of Santa Marta de Betania.

SIGUELIA / SIGUELOA

Siguelia is a Simbi loa or the female serpent, the female snake, the one who slithers on her stomach and hisses when her servidores are possesed. She eats only raw eggs, and raw meat. In some Puntos and Sociedades she speaks while in others she hisses like a snake, while still in others she communicates telepathically. Although Siguelia or Sigueloa is viewed as female, in this aspect she has no sexual genetilia but the snake itself embodies the male penis, and the venom that comes from Siguelia's fangs represent the male sperm that not only can it bring life, but if abused can bring illness and death. In this aspect she reigns over the ground and earth. Siguelia lives within a snake pit which symbolizes the female vigina genetilia. Siguelia is always held up high by Metresa Loubana, and she symbolizes one having the upper hand in any given situation. While some say that Saint Martha the Dominator is the Serpent being held bu the snake charmer, others say that they are vueltas, the two snakes are named Siguelia and Sigueloa.

SANTA MARTA LA DOMINADORA AROUND THE WORLD Mama Chimbi

Within Puerto Rican Sanse, Sance and Espiritismo Criolla tradition of the Mesa Blanca tradition, Santa Marta la Dominadora is known as Mama Chimbi, or Mami Simbi, and is the head of the Simbi division of Loa. Her husband or companion was Papa Guedeh who is synchrenized with Saint Expedite, but they seperated because of Papa Guedes fasination for human woman and infidelities. They are often seperated by El Baron del Cementerio who keeps order between them, because to have them placed togther would bring seperation, quarrels and even divorce within the home. Although Mami Chimbi is a powerful sorceress, she often suffers in matters of love, and infidelity. Her children are those woman who loose a husband to another woman, or withstand a relationship of lies and infidelities. In the Mami Chimbi avatar she speaks as does any other Misterio, while most Martas usually speak telepathically or hiss.

Madama Dambala

LA BARONESA //// MADAME DAMBALA

Traditionally within Sanse, Santeria and Espiritismo, las Madamas make up a Commision of Spirits of African priestesses that pracriced Espiritismo and Santeria. While Madama or Madame Dambala pertains to the Madamas, she is more the Spirit of the old Voodoo Queens of New Orleans long passed, who are slowly climbing the spiritual latter and becoming Loases such as Marie Lavoe. Madame Dambala is a Loa of the New Orleans, Louisianna Voodoo Tradition. She is dipicted as a Madama, and works her magic with rattle snakes, reptiles and swamp serpents. She is a Pitonisa in that she uses the cards to fortel future events and is an expert in venom and poisonous herbs. Her head dress is often larger than that of the Madamas of the Caribbean and it represents a coiled snake encircling her head, which is a symbol of her wisdom of Root magic, potions, divination and communicating with the dead. While Madame Dambala is seen as a Voodoo Queen, their is an aspect that

resembles the Haitian Loa Ayizan, who is known as the Swamp Witch. Madame Dambala is said to be the wife of the New Orleans Voodoo Loa known as Blanc Dani.

AYIDA OWEDO

AYIDA WEDO

In Haiti the image of Santa Marta la Dominadora is used to represent the ancient Rada Lwa known as Ayida Owedo, or Ayida Wedo known in Puerto Rican Sanse as Yida Guedo, or Eida Gwedo. Ayida Wedo is the first wife of Dambalah, and are viewed as the daulty of night and day, good and bad, ying and yang.

MAMI WATA

MAMI WATA

Mami Wata, Madre de Aguas, an ancient deity Loa from Central Africa is often dipicted with the statue of Santa Marta La Dominadora. Mami Wata in herself is as complex as time itself, and she is known to have more Caminos and Vueltas than any other Loa. To name a few. Mawu, Yemaya, la Sirène, Mamba Muntu, Maman Dlo, Mamy Wata, Mamadjo, Watramama, Owumiri, and Watermama just to name a few. Mami Wata is the serpent goddess of the sea, who in the ends of time will bring all humanity back to its base of origin, Africa. She is the Serpent Goddess who on her back brought the souls of the Slaves back to Africa where each would reign in Spirit as Kings and Queens.

MARIA LIONZA

The Vodou / Espiritismo / Santeria tradition of Maria Lionza from Venezuela is a mixture of African and Indegenous traditions with European Spiritism and folk magic and herbal lore. It is similar to Brazilian Umbanda and Puerto Rican Sanse, The central figure of this tradition is known as the Goddess known as Maria Lionza, or Maria de la Onza. Maria Lionza or Yara as she was known by the natives of Venezuela was an indigenous Cacica, daughter of the Cacique Yaracuy, and granddaughter of the Cacique Chilua and the greatgranddaughter of Cacique Yare. As legend has it, a great Shaman of the village predicted that a girl was to be born with strange Green eyes as green as the grass, that could turn as blue as the skies. This of course was an omen and unheard of within the indigenous people of Venezuela. The Shaman went on to say that the unborn child was to be

sacrificed and offered to the Master of the Waters, the Great Anaconda, because if not it would lead to the ruin and extinction of the Nivar tribe. When Yara was born, she was born with the colored eyes that were only seen from the White man, but Cacique Yaracuy instantly feel in love with his daughter and could not find it in his heart to sacrifice his daughter. So he decided to hide her within a cave that was guarded by 22 warriors to make sure she would not escape, in the hopes that the prophesize would not come to pass. One night when Yara was a young woman the magical rays of the blue moon shown upon the warriors and all 22 fell into a deep sleep. Yara escaped the cave and for the first time since her birth she wondered outside of the cave. Yara was captivated by the beauty of everything around her, the treas, the stars, the moon and the sky. Soon she came upon a lagoon and there under the rays of the moon Yara saw her reflection for the first time. Captivated by her own image, she was unable to move, but her presence awakened the Master of the Waters, the Great Anaconda, who emerged from the depths of the lagoon. The great anaconda fell in love with the girl, and drew closer to take her away. But Yara resisted the Master of the Water's advances. This enfuriated the anaconda and he swallowed the girl whole, taking with her the waters of the lagoon. But the great anaconda then began to swell and combusted, and the waters came out flooding the village below, and drowning all the inhabitants of the tribe within their sleep. With the regergitation of the lagoon came out Yara who reamerged as the goddess Maria Lionza, thus becoming the new owner of the lagoon, the river and the waters, and the protecter of the fish the plants the animals and all the hidden tribes that now made their homes around the lagoon.

Hindu Goddess Mexican Virgin Manasa the Hindu Snake Serpent Goddess, and Naga Kanya the Hindu Goddess of Snakes Naga Kanya are but some of ancient Goddesses that are symbolized as Serpent Goddesses. Lastly with close inspection of the Virgen of Guadelupe known as the Goddess Tonantzin one will see that the ancient Mexican Goddess appears to be standing on the head of a serpent which makes up the lower half of her dress. To speak of Serpent Goddesses around the world, would take more than your patience will allow. So to end this I will talk about the basic fundamentals of Santa Marta La Dominadora.

SERVICIOS

Santa Marta la Dominadora and all her vueltas feast day fall on the 29th of July. Her day is either Monday but preferably Tuesdays. Her Paños or Fulas are purple, red, black, green, and brown. Often the shades of her paños are of a dark color. In her Servicios Santa Marta La Dominadora will take candles but enjoys oil lamps with a mixture of snake oil carabanchel oil, and iguereta oil. In Sanse and 21 Division her offerings are always placed on the ground, and she enjoys Raw eggs on freshly ground expresso coffee grounds in which a raw egg is carefully placed on top, covered in honey or molasses and given Menthol cigarettes, cigars, dark expresso coffee, grape soda and Malta Goya or Malta India. Her associated numbers are 5 and 9. Santa Marta is associated with the element of earth and fire and these elements should be preasent with her servicios. She only eats raw eggs and is offended if the egg is cooked and will only drink

expresso coffee, dont bother with the decafinated, again this is an offense to her and she will not consume of its energy. Her offerings are always acompanoed with a tin or metal cup of water, a tin or metal cup of blood red dried wine and a tin cup of brown spiced rum. The plates for her offerings can be of terra cotta, metal, woven fibers or gourds. She also enjoys rubber, plastic or wooden snakes around her offerings. Her servicios are always placed on a metal mug, and plate and never on crystal or clear glass. She can be offered cake, corn cakes, various dark colored flowers, swords and knives, silver colored jewelry, beads, green altar cloths, kola nuts, squash, okra, money, coins and metal trinkets..

CRISTIAN BIBLICAL AND MYTHICAL FOLKTALE OF SAINT MARTHA

Martha of Bethany, also known as Saint. Martha, is a biblical

figure in the Gospels of Luke and John. She is described to live in the village of Bethany with her siblings Lazarus and Mary, near Jerusalem and was a witness to Jesus' resurrection of Lazarus. In the Gospel of John, Martha and Mary are associated with two incidents: the raising from the dead of her brother Lazarus (John 11) and the anointing of Jesus at the home of Simon the Leper (John 12:3). In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus visits the home of two sisters named Mary and Martha. In Catholicism, Martha's sister Mary, is Mary Magdalene An old mythical legend tells the tale that Saint Martha sister of Lazarus and Mary left the holy land because of the persicution of the Cristian people in the Holy Land and migrated to the land of Gaul, which is modern day France. There she encountered an evil sea serpent that was part demon and part dragon which terrorized Gaul. The serpent dragon made its way from the ocean to the river where a village resided and used the water as often we do as a source of survival and the transportation of goods. The dragon was discribed as half beast and half fish which had teath as sharp and as long as swords, a horn on eather side of its head, which resembled that of a furotious lion. The dragon had the body of a crocodile, the tail of a serpent, claws as sharp as daggers, and on eather side, demonic wings, which he used to fly with. The Dragon was named Tarasque Tarasque was such a fierce dragon that no warrior nor knight could subdue the beast, for it is said that he was a strong as 12 Lions and 12 Bears. Although Tarasque lived within the murcy waters of the lagoon, it is said that any ship that disturbed his slumber or any virgin maiden collecting waters for her house chores would pay the ultimate price. From the vowells of Tarasque's stomach came flames that smelled of Brimstone and

sulfar, and could scortch and melt the strongest of swords, spears and shields. The pagan people of the villages had heard that a great female Cristian warrior resided amongst them, and they went to her and pleaded her to dominate and subdue the dragon that was causing havoc amongst the villages. Saint Martha agreed and went to the shore of the lagoon, where she found Tarasque feasting on human flesh. When Tarasque noticed her he instinctivly inhaled so that he could exhale his flames, but at that very moment Saint Martha sprayed Holy Water into his mouth which extinquished the flames within his stomach. Then she took out a Cross and showed it to the beast which rendired him motionless. At this Saint Martha with her own girdle and ribbons of red and white lace, binded his feet, arms, mouth and tail, and at this she dominated the Dragon, and killed it. And this is how Saint Martha dominated, and slayed the Dragon, saving a village and giving them back peace.

Novena to St. Martha (pray for 9 consecutive Tuesdays)

Saint Martha, I resort to thy aid and protection. As proof of my affection and faith, I offer thee this light, which I shall burn every Tuesday. Comfort me in all my difficulties and through the great favors thou didst enjoy when the Saviour was lodged in thy house, intercede for my family, that we be provided for in our necessities. I ask of thee, St. Martha, to overcome all difficulties as thou didst overcome the dragon which thou hadst at thy feet. Amen.

PRAYER TO SAINT MARTHA THE DOMINATOR Holy Virgin Saint Martha , Who entered the mountain and tied Up the beast with your ribbons, I beg you to tie up and dominate [insert name of target]. Saint Martha, Let him/her not sit in a chair, Nor lie in a bed until he/she is at my feet. Holy Martha , hear me, Help Me for the love of God. Holy Virgin Martha , For the oil which you will consume today, For the oil which nourishes this lamp, For the wick which burns away all impurities, I dedicate this Lamp to you, So that you may relieve me Of all my Miseries And Help Me to Overcome all Difficulties. As You dominated the beast at your feet, Give me

Health and Work So that I may provide for my needs. My Mother, Grant me that [insert target's name] May not live in Peace, Until he/she comes to stand at my feet. In this way my Mother, For the Love of God Grant my Petition and Eliminate My Misery. Amen.

OTHER LOA AND SPIRITS OF THE CEMETERY To name all the Misterios, Loas and Orisha that govern over or work within the cemetery, would take a book. But I will write about them in the fututre. Here are some. Mama Buyita, La Barona, La Baronesa, Guedelia, Oya, Yewa, Guedesa, Centella, LLekua, just to name a few of the many Spirits, Loa and Orisha that work the Cemetery.

Commission of the Madamas and Congos La Madama is one of the most loved and respected groups of Spirits of the various courts or commissions in Caribbean Hispanic Espiritismo. Many confuse La Madama, or "La Negra" as many Caribbean Hispanics call her as being one spirit but this is not the case, the Madama are many. The Madamas represent the Female Force, and wisdom within a family unit. Historically las Madamas or Las Negras where the Mammys, the Mamei, Mama Mei or Mai, the house slave servant who where responsible for the caring and well-being of a master’s family. They where the matriarch, the eldest and wisest of the Masters slaves, and where loved and respected by the family The Madamas where the healers and the midwives and where well knowledge in midwifery. They had a vast knowledge of herbalism, and home remedies, and as one today enters into a pharmacy to seek a remedy for what ails one. The Madamas could enter any forest or wooded area and find the correct herb for what it was needed for.

Las Madamas where also termed as Brujas by the Spaniards as they had a vast knowledge in magic, it is a fact that the first quemaduras "witch burnings" in the Americas happened in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico. The historic location is in front of el Castillo de San Cristobal, today the location is marked by the Lincoln School. In those days this area was called el Charco de las Brujas (the Puddle of the Witches). African slaves who practiced their African magic and sorcery and where accused of Witchcraft which in the Spanish point of view was connected to the Devil where paraded through the old city walls and then brought to el Charco de Brujas and tied to stakes and burned alive. One important historical case which took place in 1608 was that of African woman who proclaimed to have Mayorazgo "Spirit Guide" that resided within their stomach. The eldest of the women became possessed by her Mayorazgo Spirit and spoke in a man's voice. The spirit even said that his name was Pedro Lorenzo, and that in Africa all Spirit Guides resided within the stomach, abdomen. Miraculously these women lives where spared, and ordered to be taken to the The Catedral de San Juan and immediately exercised and properly baptized. Note if you look at most statues of a Madamas you will notice that either one or both hands touches their waist or abdomen.

Present day statues of La Madama are usually considered a Spiritual Vessel and Espiritistas always cleanse, baptize and open the bottom of the statue and fill her with an orange or red cloth bag with her mysteries. La Madama has many sacred emblems, of those, a straw wooden broom which is her tool for cleansing and purifying, a pack of La Baraja Española, Spanish playing cards which she uses to tell fortunes, a knife which she uses for protection and cutting herbs, and a bowl or basket which she uses to place healing herbs and make healing brews. Each of the items represents one of the four elements. Broom, air, cards earth, bowl water, knife, fire. A wooden rosary is always places around the statutes neck. Tradition says that the African slaves could not afford the expensive imported European beaded rosaries of their masters so they made their own out of wood and rope. African women where often fond of rosaries. La Madama has been venerated in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba since the days when these wise women took care of the children and there wisdom has never been forgotten, so much so that they have been sanctified within Espiritismo tradition. There was even a law in Puerto Rico that declared that if a slave were left as guardian to his/her master's children he/she became free. I once spoke to a practitioner of Hoodoo who mistakenly called the Madamas Sorceress and a conjure and root worker, or root doctors, this is far from the truth. A sorceress in Spanish is an Hechizera or an enchantress who works magic for personal gain, and power, something La Madamas are clearly not about since all their labor on earth was for the greater good of their oppressor and kinfolk, and it is known that in Africa root doctors where primarily men, this tradition came along to Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Brazil and Venezuela. The women where the healer women who worked with herbs and the men worked the roots. The Congo Spirit is the typical root worker conjure man.

There where African women who worked in black magic and roots, these women in Caribbean Hispanic communities where called Las Congas. While the Madamas had a motherly nature one thing is true about the Congas and the Madamas, as viewed in Espiritismo tradition, they have a strong character and are very opinionated and outspoken. One famous Conga is that of Negra Fransisca there are two historical Negra Fransiscas one was Dominican the other Venezuelan interestingly both where powerful Spiritists and well knowledge Witches. The Dominican Francisca was married to Don Francisco while the Venezuelean one was married to el Negro Felipe. The Venezuelan Negra Francisca Maria Dolores lived in the 1800, her fame is as respected as that of New Orleans Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Legend says that La Negra Francisca Maria Dolores was an exotic mulatta beauty of caramel skin with hazel eyes, her father was a Spaniard and her mother was a freed slave. Her character has been described as sweet, loving, flirtatious, with superior intelligence as a business woman. She was well sought of from both blacks and whites as a Macumbera practitioner of Macumba and because of her superior talents as a clairvoyance and a medium. She was married to el Negro Felipe Rodriguez who has been remembered as a womanizer and alcoholic. (His statues always depicts him poring liquor from a jug to a cup.) Negro Felipe was also a powerful medium and Macumbero, and is said to have been married to 9 Women, all named Francisca. Francisca Maria Dolores was believed to have been barren, a curse placed on her by Felipe's other wives who where also all practitioners of Macumba and envious of her power, fame and beauty. As the legend goes Francisca through a dream was told that Felipe's other wives had placed the barren curse upon her. The following day Francisca prepared a powerful bilongo (black magic) to lift the curse and return it to her enemies. Shortly afterwards she became pregnant but miscarried after the death of Felipe. Deeply saddened she went into seclusion until

her death. She is buried in the town of Ocumare de la Costa, and her tomb has been visited by Espiritistas from all over the Caribbean and Venezuela, as the tomb is always full of candles and offerings.

Little is known of the Francisca of the Dominican Republic with the exception that she was a powerful Vodou priestess and was married young to Fransicisco and they where inseparable until the day they died. Statues of the Dominican Francisca is always accompanied by el Negro Francisco because in embajadas (ceremonies where they are invoked to come down) she refuses to work without her life long partner.

THE CONGOS

The Congos are the spirits of the witch doctors, paleros, juju man, root workers. They are often of a strong character, demanding, and up front. They never hold their tongues and love to smoke tobacco and drink hard liquor. They are often invoked in lifting curses, and combating black magic. Many are suspicious of none black people. In Africa they where kings, and great shamans who where captured and became slaves. This is the reason of their suspicion to none blacks.

LOS ESCLAVOS

The commission of the Esclavos are the spirits of the slaves both male and female. They usually appear in embajadas and sèances as very wise, soft spoken and inquisitive. I have been working with a Esclavo by the name of Otelio since the mid 1990s. He often comes to embajadas and sesiones, to lift causas, and give words of wisdom. In life Otelio's face was branded, as was tradition for slaves to get branded on their foreheads by their masters. He tried to fight it and got the left side of his face branded. He became blind in his left eye and speaks through the right side, rarely moving if ever the left side of his face. Some Escalvos fall under the Majordomo Court, or the Butlers. Other where Marronage or Cimarrón, the spirits of runaway fugitive slaves who hid in the mountain areas of Puerto Rico and lived amongst what was left of the Taino or in caves. The unpaved roads and heavy jungles and rain forests insured their safety and freedom. Names of famous Madamas and las Negras. These are some of the names of various Madamas that come down during Sesiones and Velaciones, there are to many to name but these are the names of those that make frequent appearances and help to guide. Understand that in present Hispanic Caribbean cultures the word Negra is not an offensive or racists word. It is used

mostly as a term of such as honey or dear. Many Carribean Hispanic use the word Mi Negrita, to mean my love.

Names of Some Madamas Negra Tomasa Ma Fransisca Dońa Elena Doña Amparo Tia Maria Calunga Negra Josefina Maria de la Luz Maria Conga Ma Cesilia Ma Anabel Mai Maria Cuatro Costal Negra Ophelia Ma Juana Mama Ela

Music. Bomba and Plena

Offerings. Tobacco and black unsweetened coffee. Color. Orange and Red Flowers. Carnation Patron Saint. San Martin de Porres Ascended Spirit. Afra

Names of Congos and Negritos Ta Jose Negro Francisco Negro Felipe Candelo el Negrito Pa Tomas Pai Jose Hermano Juan El Prieto Candido Congo de Guinea Hermano Moises Tata Jaquin

PRAYER TO LA MADAMA Oh holy spirit of La Madama. I Implore your sublime influences, for my protection. By the Virtues that the Father, Son, and Holy

Ghost have placed upon you, I ask you to help and Guide me. Oh Grand Spirit of La Madama, give me courage! use your divine wisdom, and your divine influences, so that no man or woman, under the eyes of God, may harm me. I ask this with pure respect, pure faith, pure hope, and pure charity. Amen

PRAYER TO LA MADAMA Oh Madama, I humbly invoke your sublime holy spirit. Lady of waters, I invoke you by your name Negra Tomasa, Negra Francisca, Mama Juana, Mama Ella, Ma Elena Ma Amparo, and Mai I invoke you as my fortress of protection and by the virtues bestowed upon you by God, intercede on my behalf. Liberate me from all that is evil, and bring only righteousness and goodness on my path. May the light of God eliminate my home and all that I hold sacred. Oh Madama, liberate me from tormented souls, and may those who wish me ill, repent and come asking for forgiveness from the offense they may have done against me. May my pathway be clear and smooth. May your Ascended Spirit guide me and may all evil be banished from my life. Amen.

HERBAL BATH PRAYER TO LA MADAMA La Madama are known for being Yerbateras and Santiguadoras, and they used herbal infusions for baths. This is a bath and not meant for human intake. Pregnant Women should not handle Rue (Ruda) With Rue Rosemarry, and Basil. (Ruda, Romero, Albahca) My body I shall perfume so I may be cleansed in invoking you. With Wormwood, Bonesett, and Sage (epasote, rompe zaraguey and salvia) to cleanse purify and remove bad thoughts, and evil vibrations. With Marjoram (Mejorana) so that luck come my way. With Wild Mint, and Holy Thistle (Yerba Buena, Yerba Santa) so that I can have light and clarity of mind. Oh Madama, as I light this candle, illuminate my life and pathway. As I pour this herbal infusion over my body, cleanse and purify my aura. Oh blessed and glorious Madama I place my faith under your protection. Amen

PRAYER TO THE NEGRA FRANCISCA Oh glorious black queen, your heart is as pure as all the Ascended Souls. I implore that you calm my anxieties and aid me in being victorious in all my undertakings. Show me the virtues of patience so that when times of turbulence arise, I may deal with them accordingly. Oh Negra Francisca, bestow upon me courage, and values I so need in this life. Fill me with your spiritual fluids and faculties so that no evil under the Sun and Moon may not cause me harm. Lend me some of your wisdom and the knowledge to know the difference from what is correct and what is incorrect. Show me a sign and let me know that where ever I go and where ever I am, I will be in peace and tranquility because your guiding spirit is not far. I implore you Negra Francisca, as my Centinela, protective Spirit Guide, protect me in all my journeys. In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. Amen.

PRAYER TO THE GLORIOUS CONGO SPIRIT Oh Glorious Congo Spirit, for your virtues you have enteted the Kingdom of Heaven and have obtained the Holy Blessings of God. You are a leader of the heavenly commission of spirits and you are surrounded by Angels. I an admirer of your strength and courage, knowledge and wisdom, ask in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost that you fill my body with your powers and help me in separating the evil thoughts my enemies send towards me. Free me Oh Congo from the snare of the Devil, and the embrace of his demons. Vanish from me all evil spirits and bind their hands and feet, may they never reach me. Oh Glorious Congo, With you at my side I shall defeat my enemies, and with your strength I shall overcome all my

obstacles. With your sublime powers that have been given to you by God, I ask that you help me in my daily needs. Guard my home against envy, jealousy, and bad faith, and free me of all negative influences. I light this candle in your honor, and ask that you illuminate my path. Amen.

PRAYER TO THE CONGO OF GUINEA Oh divine redeemer, spirit of the Congo. I call to you, may you come and work the spiritual labor. May you work both the material and the spiritual. You Congo that in life suffered what we consider unimaginable. I implore that you protect me from suffering the same fate. Protect my beliefs and do not let others judge me, or make me feel like I have to hide what in my heart I know is wright. Oh my beloved Congo, be my guiding light in this life, and keep all that is wicked away from me. Bring only that which is good to my life. I ask this in the name of God. Amen.

PRAYER TO EL NEGRO FELIPE & EL NEGRO FRANCISCO Negro Felipe and Negro Jose, you that where captured from your motherland of Africa and brought to the Americas against your will. By God sent and by the Virgin protected. In Africa you where a king, a prince, and of noble blood. Striped of your honorable titles and given the title of Slave. But still you endured, and became immortalized as ever wise and ever humble, and the very descended of those who persecuted you, today honor you as living saints of the celestial courts. Oh Negro Felipe and Negro Francisco, I ask that you make impotent those that wish to strip me of my freedom, and wish to

conquer my mind, body, soul, and my freewill. Keep away from me all black magic, evil intentions and ill will. All this I ask with much faith and reverence of the eternal freedom bestowed upon you by the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.

TO THE BROTHER JUAN To you Brother Negro Juan, who was in the canoe when our Lady of Charity appeared before You, Juan Indio, and Juan Blanco. You who are the backbone to my spiritual frame, and to all the good spirits that take an interest in my well being. Oh Negro Juan you that knows first hand my tribulations, I ask that you help me in making my life peaceful and still, as peaceful and still as Our Lady made the waters for you and the other Juans. You know all my necessities, I ask you to intercede on my behalf in front of Our Lady and the Celestial Court. I ask this with much faith. Amen.

RAFAEL CORDERO Y MOLINA 10.24.1790 to 07.5.1869

PRAYER TO EL MAESTRO RAFAEL CORDERO MOLINA, SERVANT OF GOD

Our Lord and Heavenly Father, you that took into your Kingdom the Sage amd Teacher Rafael Cordero Molina, the Afro Puerto Rican Freeman, who had a burning desire within his soul to teach all children, black and white, rich and poor. Born of a brilliant Wisdom, and a charitable heart for his fellow man, poor and homeless. Let me be as he was and be like a good neighbor, and a good Samaritan. Let me be generous in serving all those who are in need. Lord I ask, let the memory of his charitable works be remembered and may his name be Holy and elevated upon the altars. Veneration of Virtue, respect for the good man who devotes himself, like the Divine Master Rafael Cordero Molina, to the teaching of those who do not know. To pouring into the hearts of the youth the principles of Faith, Hope, Charity, Love, Knowledge, and Glory. Bring me to shed a tear, not on an opulent tomb, but on a humble grave, brightened by the merits of the virtuous man who sleeps within.Such a man as was Rafael

Cordero y Molina. AMEN.

The Pantheon of the Puerto Rican Sanse Misterios

Los Misterios de Sanse simiar to Dominican 21 Division, Diviciones

Within the Pantheon of Haitian Vodou the Lwa are categorized within 5 various Nations "Nanchons" of Spirits, which are as follow. Rada Nation Petro Nation Guede Nation Kongo Nation Nago Nation The word Lwa is the Haitian Creole word for Law, and is pronounced Lalwa. "La Luwah"

Rada Lwa

The Rada Lwa are the highly elevated ancient Spirits who have their roots in Africa. These Spirits where honored, venerated, worshiped and brought to the New World with the Slave Trade. Within the Rada Division, the Cosmic forces and Spiritual Forces of nature are honored. Many Orishas from Santeria, Candomble, Umbanda, Santerismo, Shango and Obeah also fall within this Division. They are generally benevolent spirits and as a whole are associated with the element of air and the color white, although singularly each Orisha and Lwa control a force of nature, or element, each has his or her own associated color and numbers. Some Rada can also have Petro aspects which are considered to be much more harsher and aggressive than the more peaceful and benevolent Rada Lwa, some say that these Rada Lwa with Petro traits are aspects, "vueltas" or roads, "caminos" while others argue they are different entities altogether.

Petro Lwa

The Petro / Pretho Lwa have their origin within the New World, and they tend to be more aggressive than the peaceful Rada. The name Petro comes from Don Juan Felipe Pedro "Jean Philippe Petro, Ti Jean Petro" a Negro Slave of the Dominican Republic who in 1768 learned to harness the darker aspects or sides of the Lwa, as well as the native spirits of the land, becoming a powerful and well renowned Papa Boko. The Petro Lwa became very popular within the island of Hispañola especially in Haiti. In Cuba these forces are known as the Inquices or Mpungo. As a whole they are associated with the element fire and the color red.

Ghede Lwa The Ghede Lwa are often viewed as benevolent Spirits of the Dead who are in the transition state of reaching Rada status, and still some Ghede are waiting to reincarnate or resurrect into the material plane. They are great healers, protecters of children and often have a mischievous, and trickster like nature to them. The Ghede fall into the biggest group of Lwa and fall in between the Rada and Petro, and their mischievous nature is often misunderstood. They are the messengers or mouthpiece to the dead as well as highly elevated spirits, and also are known to help transport dead souls into other planes of existence. Many also help in opening the pathways between the realm of the Living and the realm of the Dead. As a whole their color is black.

The Kongo Lwa The group of Loases have their origins within the Congo region of Africa. This group of Lwa include the Simbi division mostly venerated in Haitian Vodou, and the Mpongo Spirits venerated in Palo Monte and Palo Mayombe. While the Rada represent Cosmic and Natural Forces, the Petro and Congo embody human

traits, desires and emotions. They are fierce, and often hot tempered spirits. There color as a whole is Blue.

Nago Lwa

The Nago nation includes many aspects or roads of the Orisha Oggun, or the Lwa Ogou, such as Ogum, Ogou Balendjo, Ogun Panama, Ogun Zarabanda, Gran Ogun Batala, Ogou Sango, and so forth. Originating from the Ogun state in present day Nigeria as well as Benin and Osun, the Ogun are associated with Fire and Metal, and manifest their energy through labor and hard work. They have the power to destroy and create and are the great Leaders of battles. They are blacksmith, and rulers of weapons and all metals. They are envisioned as warriors, generals or soldiers, as they always carry a weapon such as a Sword, or a Machete. Traditionally the name Ogun is similar to a surname or last name for Nago Lwa although the name Ogun or Ogou comes first. While the Haitians classify their Lwa into 5 nations, The Misterios "Loases" of the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico classify them into 21 divisions. The Dominican Republic 21 Divisions are The Leguas The Ogunes The Guedes The Rodas The Lokos The Lokomis The Petos The Simbis The Petifones The Marasa The Zombis

The Indios The Nagos The Congos The Guineas The Niñillos The Caes The Dangueles The Shuques The Piues The Difemayos In Puerto Rico there is a slight variation. The Sanse Misterios are. 1. THE LEGBAS 2. THE OGUNES 3. THE GUEDE 4. THE CANDELOS 5. THE BELCANES 6. THE METRESAS 7. THE INDIOS 8. THE SOLIERES 9. THE PRIETOS 10. THE SIMBISES 11. THE CENTINELAS 12. THE GUINEAS 13. THE MADAMAS 14. THE NINOS 15. THE ORIENTALES 16. THE POTENCIAS 17. THE MAGOS 18. THE AGUASES 19. THE JEMELOS 20. THE CEMISES 21. THE ARABES

Within Puerto Rican Sanse the most venerated are the Siete Sanses or Siete 7 Jefes of the Sanse Pantheon, which is similar in concept to the Seven African Powers.

Los Siete Jefes del Sanse

los Siete JEFES del Sanse

Anaisa la Chiquita Santa Marta Dominadora La Madre Dolorosa Belie Belcan Candelo Ogun Belando Baron del Cementerio Some societies or families differ and may include, Luis El Guedesito, Pa Viejo, Cachita Tumbo, Amalia Belcan, Ofelia Balendo, Agua Dulce or Rio Tempestoso. It is important to note that not all Sanse Societies venerate the same Misterios.

La Siete Potencias Africana

Orula Yemaya Eleggua Chango Ogun Ochun Obatala Also Babalu Aye, Ochosi and Oya. In tern these 21 Divisions are broken down into three major Divisions, each Division has 7 Seven main Jefes or Chiefs that rule over that particular Punto. So you have 3 Divisions which has 7 Puntos, and 7 times 3 equals 21. Some Puerto Rican societies include the Commissions as well. Again each sociedad or familia will have variations on what constitutes the 7 Jefes of Sanse. It is not that we do not respect the other Misterios, its that the 7 Jefes are the most widely respected, or known on the island both within Brujeria and Sanse. The White Division "Air Division" The Black Division "Fire Division" The Indian Division "Water Division"

The Earth Division is made up of those Spirits, or Saints that are close to the Material plane these spirits as a whole are known as the Commissions, or Cortes and the Punto to the Comisiones is ones Guardiana spirit known as El Centinela.

The Misterios / The Loases

SANSE RELIGION

Alejo is Saint Alex Anaisa Pyé / Anaisa la Chiquita = Saint Anne July 26th / Joan of Arc. Colors : Yellow and White Baron Del Cementerio / Baron del Monte = Saint Elijah Day 17th of April or 20th of July Colors Black and White Barón Sandi / Papa Guede is San Gerardo Feast Day, October 16, colors Black and Red. Belié Belcan is Saint Michael, Feast Day, Sept 29th, colors green and red Bakúlu Baká is Saint Philip, Feast Day November 14. Colors Blue and Green. Candelina is Our Lady of Candelaria, Feast Day, Febuary 2 Colors Red and Blue

Candelito is The Divine Child, Feast Day December 25, colors Pink and Blue. Candelo Cedife is Saint Charles Colors Red White, Black Candelo del Monte / Candelo de la Escoba is Saint Martin de Porres, feast day, November 3 colors Red, White and Black. Cachita Tumbo is Our Lady of Charity. Madonna della Neve, Feast Day, Sept 8 Orange and Yellow Chango Macho is Saint Barbara, Feast Day December 4th, colors Red and White. Clementina is the Virgen Milagrosa, colors, White and Blue Centinela is Saint Sebastián Centinela Criminel is Saint Pancracio Damballah is Saint Patrick. Feast Day March 17th. Colors: White and Green Ezili Ailá (Alaíla) is Our Lady of High Grace Feast Day, January 21, Colors: White, Blue Ezili Danthó is Saint Barbara Africana, Feast Day December 4, colors Blue, Yellow, Green. Filomena Lubana is Saint Martha Dominator. Feast Day, July 29, colors, purple and green. Ghuede Gran Bwa is Saint Jude, Saint Cristopher, Feast Day October 28, colors Red, Blue and Green. Gran Soliér is Jesus of Nazareth, Feast Day, December 6, colors Yellow, Gold, white and Orange.. Gran Toro (Toroliza) Christ of Good hope, color red and purple

Guedé Limbó San Expedito La Gunguna is Saint Ellen Juan Bakéo is Saint Peter, colors, Red, Brown and Green Juan Ferroz is Saint Marcos Evangelist, Feast Day April 25, colors Red and Yellow. Juan Kriminelo (Jan Kriminel or Juan Criminal ) is Saint Pancracio Papa Legba is Saint Anthony, His color is brown and his feast day is June 13. Luis Guede is Child of Atocha, His colors are Red and Black, his feast day is December 25. Marassa is Saints Cosmo and Damian. Their colors are Red and Green Rojo/Red, Verde/Green and feast day is September 26. Marta La Bruja is Saint Martha Metresili is Our Lady of Sorrows, Her colors are Pink, Baby Blue and White. Her feast day is September 15. Ofelia Balendjo is Our Lady of Mercy, Her colors are white, light blue and clear, and his feast day is September 24. Ogun Balendjo is Saint James, His colors are Red and Blue, his feast day is july 25th. Ogun Fegai is Saint Jorge, His colors are White and Red. His feast day is April 23. Ogun Batala is Saint Martin of Tours, His colors: White and Red. His feast day is November 11 Osanjin is Saint Franscise

La Sirena is Estrella Maris Blue. Her colors are Blue and White, Her feast day is September 7th. La Señorita is Saint Claire. Her colours: White and Yellow, Her feast day: August 11 Rosita Guedelia Legba is Saint Rose of Lima. Tindjo Alague is San Rafael

21 DIVISION DE SANSE This is not the 21 DIVISION as practiced in The Dominican Republic, it is the Misterios that are venerated in Puerto Rican Sanse. Each Sociedad will vary on which Misterios are part of the Division.

21 Divisiones de Sanse

THE NACIONES, THE MISTERIOS, THE ELEMENTS

"In Sanse, everyone is born with a Guia Principal, a Centinela, a Legba and a Guede."

The Misterios in Nature

In Puerto Rican Espiritismo the Santos / Misterios are often venerated and honored within the home altar called la Tableau Espiritual, but within Sanse they are also venerated outdoors in nature. Those who undertake the various bautismos and refrescos de cavesa within this beautiful spiritual tradition are brought and presented to the various puntos de naturaleza where the energies of the Misterios are present and at their strongest. Also offerings of food, liquids, tobacco and money are brought to these natural settings. The Ocean, every Caribbean Island is surrounded by the lush tropical Carribean sea, and is viewed as a Punto de Naturaleza where many Misterios reside. Estrella Maris, La Diosa del Mar, Yemaya, La Sirena, Olixi Maya, and Madre de Agua to name a few reside within the depths of the ocean, and their blessings can be felt with the coming and going of the tides. In the lush rivers, waterfalls, lagoons, ponds and lakes is where many of the Misterios of the Metresas reside. Many bautismos and refrescos de cavesas are done in these locations and puntos are recieved here. Irzili Freda, Cachita Tumbo and Padre de Agua and other Misterios reside here. The forests, jungles, woodlands and rain forests is where the Nacion of the Ogun reside and are venerated, especially on hills, and mountain peeks, and caves. While Gran Bwa, Gran Bosque, and Osanjeh's presence can be felt deep within the woods. The Ogun's energies are usually found on higher grounds. Mountain peeks if possible is where the highly elevated Misterios are venerated. Within the cemetery reside the Guedé and is ruled by el Baron de Cementerio, Centella, Gunguna, and Papa Legba as well as many other Misterios. Indian Ceremonial grounds is where the Cemis energies can be felt. While Indian burial grounds, are very sacred and highly respected, this is where the energies of ancient and ancestral Caciques, Bohiques, Nitainos and Naboria is felt and offerings

are left in these areas. Other popular areas are in urban settings such as the market places, crossroads, courthouses, and even hospital grounds, where the energies of many Misterios preside.

7 NACIONES 7 DIVISIONES Although there are 21 Divisions both in Dominican Vudù and the Pantheon of Puerto Rican Sanse, 7 Naciones are the most venerated and respected amongst Puerto Ricans. Within each Nacion their is a Punto Misterio known as el Jefe or La Jefa, but what is apparent is that each of the 7 Jefes come from one of the Naciones that follows. (Many of the Misterios are separate entities while others are Vueltas of the same spirit. Example: popular vueltas for el Baron del Cementerio are, Baron de la Cruz and Baron del Sabado.)

THE LEGBAS

PAPA LEGBA

División de los Legbá is Governed by Papa Legba who is synchronized with Saint Anthony of Padua. The Legbas Nacion embody the element of earth and fire. They help in opening pathways, opening doors to other realms, as well as uncrossing and destroying sorcery and black magic. Many of the Legbas are great communicators and help us is relaying messages. They enjoy black sweetened coffee, pure cigars, coconut in all its forms, sugar cane, and spiced rum. The younger Legbas enjoy toys, sweets candies of all kinds, coins and are mischievous by nature, while the older Legbas use walking sticks, bells, prefer bills over coins and are serious and stern by nature. Their offerings are placed on the floor by an entrance, within a corner of a wall or at the crossroads. Their colors are Brown, Red and black.

1) Papa Legba 2) Legba Carifu 3) Legba Isasan 4) Legba Grasimo 5) Legba Coehn 6) Legba Lado 7) Legba Manose 8) Rosita Legba 9) Piti Legba 10) Luis "Sito" Elegba 11) Legba Tibon 12) Eleba Crucero 13) Leggua Encrucijado 14) Legba de las Crucesgba

THE OGÙNES

OGUN BALENDJO

División de los Ogunes is Governed by Ogun Balendyó who is synchronized with San Santiago and Ogun Badagrí who is synchronized with Saint George. Within this division presides Osanjeh, Gran Bwá, Rio Tempuestoso "San Cristóbal" and Gran Toro Lisa. The Prieto Division of spirits also fall within this Nacion as well as other Divisions such as the Guedes, Candells, and Legbas. The Ogun Nacion embody the element of earth, fire and metal. They are hard workers, guardians, blacksmiths, soldiers and warriors. Out of all the Naciones they work the hardest, none stop and can be very fierce and tempermental. They enjoy Gin, Aguardiente and Rum. Black unsweetened coffee often spiced with liquor, and all forms of hot and spicy foods. Their offerings are placed on the floor or on the grounds in wooded areas. Their colors are Red, Green and Black.

1) Ogun Balendjo 2) Ogun Baldagri 3) Ogun Batalla 4) Ogun Batala 5) Ogun Guerrero 6) Ogun Farai 7) Ogun Oca 8) Ogun Chango 9) Ogun Panama 10) Ogun Sarabanda 11) Ogun Nagua 12) Ogun Ferayo

THE GUEDÉS

GUEDE

División de los Guedés is governed by el Barón del Cementerio who is synchronized with San Elías, within this division Santa

Marta la Dominadora and Santa Marta La Bruja, Baron del Sabado, Baron de la Cruz and Papa Guede Limbo. Although the Candelo spirits have their own division, they also belong within this division. The Nacion of the Guedés "Ghede, Gedeh, Gwedeh" embody the element of earth and fire. This Nacion helps in resolving all sorts of problems. They help in opening and closing the doors to the realm of the dead. They can be mischievous and often ruthless tricksters, and if offended, can be very dangerous. They should never be called on by those who do not completely have wisdom over their misteries as they can unleash evil malevolent spirits as easily as benevolent spirits. They enjoy all types of hard liquor, black unsweetened coffee, and black pepper in their foods. Their offerings are left at the entrance to a cemetery or on the oldest tomb. There colors are purple, black, yellow and red. El Baron and Centella enjoy purple..

1) Papa Guedé Nimbo 2) Guedé Alawe 3) Guedé Carifu 4) Guedé Uhsu 5) Guedé Lhea 6) Guedé Martyin 7) Guedé Dionisio 8) Luisito Guedé 9) Guedélia Legcua 10) Guedelina 11) La Baronesa 12) Guedé Brigetté

THE CANDELOS

PAPA CANDELO

The Candelos fall under the División de los Prietos, and within this Nacion one finds countless Misterios, which have their origins both in the Americas as well as Africa. The Candelo Nacion embody the element of fire and air, and although they are Guedés they also have their own Nacion / Sociedad / Familia / Division. They open the pathways for progression, change and evolution. They are great guardians and swift healers and messengers for Papa Buen Dios. They work hard for finding a solution and solving all forms of dilemmas. They are great paleros, and have a great wisdom and knowledge over ancient magic and herbalism. They also work well in all judicial matters. They enjoy rum, whisky and red wines, hot chillies and red apples, bread, pure cigars, coconut milk and coconut water. Their offerings can go on the ancestral altar, the boveda or in elevated tombs, and is always covered with a red cloth. Their colors are red, black and white.

1) Papa Candelo 2) General Cedife 3) Candelo Fronteh

4) Candelo Farai 5) Candelo Gayo Neh 6) Pa Candeh 7) Candelo Agadùn 8) Candelo Siete Espina 9) Candela Ollah 10) Candelina 11) Candelia Llegua 12) Candelito 13) Candeleria 14) Candelo Boro 15) Candelo el Toro 16) Candelo Milayo

THE BELCANES

BELIE BELCAN

División de los Radá or Blanca is Governed by the Higher Order of Misterios such as Belié Belcán "San Miguel", Asaca Dipié "San José", Damballah "San Patricio", Gran Solier, and other countless Highly elevated Misterios.

Within this Division one finds the Belcan Nacion, which embody the element of Air and Earth, They fight for justice and peace and are a great defense against demons, evil spirits, occult enemies and black magic. They are wise, ancient and of a benevolent nature although they are fierce warriors and keep order amongst chaos. As an offering they enjoy Rum, red wines, cornmeal, cigars and red and green fruits. Colors are Red and Green.

1) Belie Belcan 2) Daweh Belcan 3) Chiqui Belier 4) Piti Belie 5) Ataque Belcan 6) Espada Fuerte 7) Belcan Sito 8) Papito Belier 9) Beliercito

THE METRESAS

METRESAS

División de las Metresas is Governed by Metresili "Virgen de la

Dolorosa" as well as Anaísa Pié "Santa Ana", Anaisa La Chiquita, "Juana de Arco", Gunguna "Santa Elena", Rosita Legbá "Santa Rosa de Lima", Cachita Tumbo, Candelina, Alaila "la Virgen de la Altagracia", Clementina "La Virgen Milagrosa", Ofelia Balendjo "La Virgen de las Mercedes", La Señorita "Santa Clara" and other female Misterios. Although they pertain to their own Division, they can also belong to another. The Mestresas embody the elements of earth and water. Although this is one separate Nacion, many of the Misterios within it are a part of other Naciones. They work in matters of emotions, thoughts and feelings. They govern over love, womanhood, motherhood, maternity, fertility, beauty and femininity. They love sweet wines, mixed drinks, champagne, beer, cigarettes, honey, spices, molasses, and sugar. They adore chocolates especially within a heart shaped box, tropical and citrus fruits, melons and pumpkins. They love flowers of all kinds but each Metresa has her own favorite, as well as perfumes, mirrors, cosmetics, jewelry, laced fans, combs and hair brushes. Their offerings go on the altar in lavish plates and glasses. Their colors are Pink, Yellow, Orange and Gold.

1) Madre Sili 2) La Metresa 3) Anaisa Pyé 4) Anaisa Demait 5) Cachita Tumbo 6) Danto Pye 7) Filomena Dantu 8) Esili Freda 9) Sili Danto 10) Canaima La Perla 11) Alaila

12) Filomèz 13) Gunguna

LOS INDIOS

INDIO CACIQUE

Division of the Indio Agua Dulce. This is the Division one finds. El Rey del Agua, "John the Baptist" Tindjo Alague / Tin Djo Alagwe "Saint Rafael" and Caciques and Cacicas such as Caonabo Yuisa, Anacaona. In Sanse, el Rey del Agua watches and supervises over all baptismal ceremonies. This Nacios of Misterios make up 1/3 of the Misterios, they are highly venerated within Puerto Rican Sanse and are a very important division of Spirits. They embody the elements of water and air. They enjoy Tobacco in all its forms, mabi root bark tea, casava bread, yuca with codfish, cornmeal, and arepa bread. They are often called Indio de la Paz, Indio Bravo, or Indio Guerrero. Within this Division fall the spirits of the indiginous people and their elevated Spirits and Zemis. Their colors are Red, Yellow and Green.

1) Indio Alague 2) Indio Carinoa 3) Pluma Blanca 4) Toro Sentado 5) Indio Aguila Roja 6) Indio Enriquillo 7) India Ciboney 8) India Jihoanya Paños, Banderas and Candles The Sances work with various paños, and candles representing the Punto Misterios which have their own traditional colors of banderas and paños that are placed on the altar, usually seven various colors are used as well as seven various colored candles or a seven day candle of seven colors is used. Each of the colors represent one or more Sanses and Misterio. Black is rarely used unless combating or battling occult enemies. Seven is usually used for peace and protection while nine is used for ending, and removal. Some use three candles to represent the three divisions. Excample: white or yellow to symbolize the White Division, Red or black to symbolize the black division and blue or green to symbolize the indian division. Yellow =. The Sances of the Metresas, Solier & Guedés. White = The Sances of the Belcanes and Solier Blue = The Sances of La Sirena Green = The Sances of the Indios Belcanes & Ogunes Pink = The Sances of the Metresas Purple = The Sances of the Guedés Red = The Sances of the Candelos, Ogunes & Legbas Orange = The Metresas Brown = Sances of the Legbas Black can also be used for the Sances of the Legbas, Guedés, The Ogun, and Candelos

THE CENTINELA The Guardian of Sanse Religion

"Centinela Alerta!" "Alerta Esta!"

EL FARO DE LA CENTINELA Oh mi Centinela mi guia y mi guardiero, cuidame bien de día y noche, temprano y tarde, hasta que mi alma parta al cielo. Oh mi Centinela, guia principal, quédate conmigo. Yo te doy gracias por tu fiel compañia. Amén Guardiero de la paz, Guia de la Guarda, a quien soy encomendado, mi defensor, mi vigilante centinela; gracias te doy, que me libraste de muchos daños del cuerpo y del alma. Gracias te doy, que estando durmiendo, me velaste, y despierto, me encaminaste; al oído, con santas inspiraciones me avisaste. Perdóname, amigo mío, mensajero del cielo, consejero, protector y fiel guarda mía; muro fuerte de mi alma, defensor y compañero

celestial. En mis desobediencias, vilezas y descortesías, ayúdame y guárdame siempre de noche y de día. Amén.

PRAYER TO THE LIGHTHOUSE OF SANSE

Oh my Sentinel, my principle Guide and my Guardian, watch over me day and night, as the sun rises and when the sun sets, from dawn to dusk. Watch over me until my soul journeys to the heavens. Oh my Sentinel, principle guide, accompany me where ever I go and I shall be humbly grateful. Guardian of Peace, Guide that Guards over my well being, given to me by God, my great defender, my vigilant Sentinel, I always shall praise and thank thee, for liberating me from all that wishes me harm, protecting and defending my body, mind and soul. Thankful am I because when I am asleep you watch over me, and when I am awake you keep my feet routed on the earth, and in my ear you whisper words of inspiration that never leads me

astray. Forgive me my heavenly friend and companion, messenger of God, counselor, defender, protector, faithful watchman, heavenly fortress, watch tower, and celestial companion. Forgive my ignorance, my disobedience, and for the times I did not listen to your advices. Help me in being more attentive, and guard over me, day and night. Amen.

THE CENTINELA

Of all the Saint, or Spirits within your Cuadro Espiritual none is as important as ones Centinela, the Centinela is ones Guardiana "guardian' principle spirit guide and is that spirit that guides and is the leader or head spirit of ones spiritual frame. The Centinela is a God appointed spirit thats sole purpose and function is to guide and assist in the spiritual development of an

individual within their lifespan. The Centinela has many functions but the most important is helping a person elevate and progress within life while at the same process elevating themselves as well. Although the Centinela are highly elevated Spirits, they are not as elevated as the Spiritual Forces we in Espiritismo and the Sanse religion call the Misterios. But they are elevated enough that they do not ask for physical offerings such as food, cigars, liquid, or flowers. All they ask is that we talk to them, pray for them, sing to them give them light, and listen to their sound advice. If one chooses to give the Centinela a physical offering it should come in the form of light. The light offered to a Centinela comes in the form of an aromatic candle, but the Centinela also likes a sweet scented oil lamp or lantern. The Centinela speaks to us through our dreams but also speak to us through our inner voice, that voice that tells us what is right from wrong. The more we listen quietly and meditate on their words, the stronger the bond becomes with an individual and their Centinela. The Centinela are the voice of wisdom, and inner knowledge, and will never give us advice on that which is unethical, immoral or dangerous to our well being, safety or progression. They will never give advice on anything that goes against our mental, physical well being, or spiritual growth. Each individuals Centinela is unique and only serves that particular person. For example while thousands of people may honor and venerate a certain Saint for example Saint Michael or the Holy Child of Atocha, or call on a certain Spirit by name from one of the Courts or Commission the Centinela works exclusively and in unison with one person, and every person in the world has one. Each Centinela was chosen by God and accompanies us through life, from the time of birth until the time of death of the physical body. No two people have the same

Centinela, although they may be called by the same name. Although they are highly elevated spirits that once lived on the earth, they are still close enough to our plane of existence to be aloud a close bond with the living, and they understand our needs, desires, wants, they understand our struggles, our pains, our joys and sorrows. When one builds a healthy relationship with ones Centinela, we create a strong union and bond, and through their wisdom they speak to us what is acceptable and unacceptable in our progression. While an Espiritista or a Sancista can invoke any Spirit from the Commission of Spirits, it is extremely important to understand that while the Commissions usually act and speak in a similar fashion as they did in life, and usually the spirits from the Commission are fond of physical offerings such as candles, food and liquor. The Centinela always presents himself or herself as a wise benevolent soul and never partakes of physical offerings. For example, the Spirits of the Madamas or Gypsies come down dancing singing and can have a coquette demeanor, or the Congos or Indios can be stern, loud, and very opinionated, all the while smoking cigars, or partaking of liquid offerings, The Centinela comes down very wise, and humble and shuns material offerings. If the Centinela does not agree with a persons actions in life he / she will usually send another spirit from ones Cuadro in his / her place to handle the situation. As they always come down as wise and benevolent souls, and while other spirits from ones Cuadro come to dance, partake of offerings, remove curses and perform cleansing a Centinela usually comes quietly to give his or her blessings, or to give important spiritual messages.

Although an Espiritista or a Sansista can call on any Spirit from their Cuadro Espiritual, they often call the Centinela into possession more often than any other; and rather than calling the Misterios they call the Centinela because it is so close to us that less energy is needed in invoking them. To call or become possessed by the Corrientes 'Spiritual Forces" of a Misterio more energy must be generated and more ritual labor is required. This by no means implies that an Espiritista or a Sansista can not become possessed by the Corrientes of the Misterios. We often do during Misas, Bautismos, Fiestas Espirituales or Rites of Passages, but on a daily basis when we need to exert the least amount of energy such as Limpias, Despojos or Consultas Espirituales we invoke the Corriente of our Centinela. Although the Centinela do not have physical representations, Espiritistas and Sansistas keep a statue or a framed image of a Saint to spiritually represent the Centinela. In Puerto Rico this image is usually in the form of a statue or framed picture of Saint Sebastian or Saint Pancracio for a male Centinela while the Female Centinela is represented by a picture of the virtues Faith, Hope and Charity, or a charm that has an anchor, heart and cross. It is important to understand that ruthless, cruel, merciless, are disposed to inflict pain or suffering, are void of humane feelings and evil individuals loose the protections and guidance of ones Cuadro Espiritual and Centinela, it begins to weaken and wane within time, until the person has no spiritual protection whatsoever, and becomes enveloped by personal demons and intranquil spirits. Individuals born with mental health issues have a strong connection with ones Centinela. While individuals who fall under substance abuse, such as narcotics, liquor or has no control for over indulgences of the flesh are often influenced more by Demons and Intranquil Spirits, and their spiritual frame

weakens within time. Individuals who suffer mental illnesses that cause depression are protected by their Spiritual Frame, but also need to find mental help in order to align mind, body, and spirit in unison in order to properly heal and elevate.

La Gran Ivocacion de Santerismo y Sanse Puertoriqueño Invoco mis Antepasados conocidos y desconosidos, para que me den las facultades y el fluido espiritual para que tenga claridad, en el camino de la vida Bendicion a mis Antepasados. Invoko a mis seres, y mis muertos, porque en sus hombros me cargan en esta vida, y mis pasos caminan los pasos que caminaron ellos. Bendicion a mis Muertos. Yo invoco la sublime influencia de las 21 Comision de Espiritus, Corte Bruja, Corte Gitana, Corte de las Madamas, Corte de los Piratas, Corte de los Indios, Corte de los Orientales, Corte de los Arabes, Corte Santiguadora, Corte de los Congos, Corte de los Santos, Corte de los Hindu, Corte de los Angeles, Corte de los Esclavos, Corte de los Espiritus Infantiles, Corte de las Bendita Animas, Corte Libertadora, Corte de los Bohemios, Corte de los

Heroes de nuestro pais, Corte Africana, Corte Elementales, Corte de los Juanes y Marias y las infinitas Cortes sin nombrar, para obtener buen éxito y adelanto en todos los asuntos de mi vida y para allanar todas las dificultades que haya en mi camino. Bendicion a Las Comisiones de Espiritus. Invoco la ayuda de mi Centinela y los 21 Jefe Guardianas del Sanse, Santos, Misterios y los Angeles de la Guarda, para que las estrellas alumbren y guíen mi camino y me espanten la mala sombras y mala voluntad que pueda seguirme. Bendicion le pido a mi Centinela, a mi Santo y a mi Angel de la Guarda. Invoco a Dios de las alturas para que mi casa prospere, aumente mis negocios y mi persona reciba un mensaje de buena suerte enviado por la Divina Providencia. Bendicion Padre Celestal, Todopoderoso e Imortal. Invoko a la Reina Madre del Cielo, Oh mi Reina Madre de Mi devocion, no me desampare de su protecion ni de noche ni de dia, y cobijame en su mantilla y manto sagrado. Bendicion Reina Madre. Oh! Gran Poder de Dios, imploro tu poderosa ayuda para que me apartes del peligro en el momento preciso y para que mi camino se vea iluminado por el faro de la fortuna. Yo recibiré las infinitas bendiciones del cielo, creo en Dios Padre, Dios Hijo, Dios Espiritu Santo. Amén

The Grand Invocation of Santerismo and Sanse Religion

I Invoke my Ancestors whose names are known and unknown to me so that they may bless me with the Faculties needed and the Spiritual Fluids required so that I may have clarity in my life. Benediction I ask of my ancestors. I invoke the spirits and souls of my dead relatives, because on their shoulders they carry me through this. My feet walk the paths that they walked in life. Benediction I ask of my Dead. I invoke the sublime power and influence of the 21 Commissions of Spirits. Court of the Shamans, Court of the Madamas, , Court of the Gypsies, Court of the Sailors, Court of the Native People, Court of the Oriental Spirits, Court of the Arabian Spirits, Court of the Healing Spirits, Court of the Congo Spirits, Court of the Saints,, Court of the Hindu Gods, Courts of the Angels, Court of the Slaves, Court of the Child Spirits, Court of the Blessed Souls in Purgitory, Court of the Liberators, Court of the Nomads, Court of the Legendary Heroes, Court of the African Mysteries, Court of the Elementals, Court of the Johns and Maries, and to all the infinite Courts of Heaven. May I obtain success, elevation and advancements within this life and the following. Benediction to the Commission of Spirits. I invoke the guiding hands of my Guardian Spirit, and the

watchful eyes of the 21 Chief Sanses, Mysteries, Elevated Saints and Archangel, so that the stars within heaven be a road map to the Celestial Court. May they keep away all evil thoughts, ill will and bad intentions that my enemies may have for me. Benediction to my Guardian Spirit, the Sanses, the Mysteries, the Elevated Saints and the Archangel. I invoke God so that my home may prosper, my good affairs in life increase, and so that I may receive inner peace in all my earthly under takings. Benediction heavenly father, immortal and all powerful. I invoke the Queen Mother of Heaven and Angels. Oh Queen Mother of my devotion do not forsake me and keep your watchful eye upon me. Envelope me within your Holy Shawl and Mantle. Benediction Holy Mother of Heaven. Oh, Great Power of God, I implore your sublime help so that you may part from my path and keep away all that is detrimental to my well being, mental health and spiritual growth. May my pathways in life receive the light of your heavenly watch tower, and may I receive the heavenly benediction of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Prayer to Saint Sebastian

O Lord, grant us a spirit of strength. Taught by the glorious example of Your martyr, Saint Sebastian, may we learn to obey You rather than men. O Glorious St Sebastian, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you do we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from God the Father all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly the grace of living a holy life, courage to face all perils of my believe and even to sacrifice my life as the cost of my faith and this special favour we now implore. O, special guardian, guard me from the diseases and accidents, we feel animated with confidence that your intercession on my behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. Amen

In Puerto Rico San Sebastian is often known as or called, San Se, or Sanse. A popular theory of the root of the word Sanse, among Puerto Ricans comes from the Centinela Principle Spirit

Guide who is associated with San Sebastian in Puerto Rico. On the island, San Sebastian is often called, San SE, or Sanse, for short. in Japan the word Sensei means, person who was born before, or Teacher or Master. Puerto Rican Sanse has its roots in Haitian Voodoo and Dominican 21 Division. Thus Sanse is a branch of Voodoo, while Santerismo is a branch of Cuban Santeria, with, both greatly influenced by Puerto Rican Brujeria, and Mesa Blanca Espiritismo.

THE 21 Cortes / Commissions of Spirits in Puerto Rican Espiritismo

EL CUADRO ESPIRITUAL LAS COMICIONES DEL ESPIRITISMO CRIOLLA

Las 21 Commisiones Espirituales del Espiritismo Puertoriqieno.

21 COMISION DESPOJANDO. 21 COMISION QUE AQUI LLEGO. SANTIGUANDO Y DESPOJANDO, DESPOJANDO EN EL NOMBRE DE DIOS OREEN QUE OREEN HERMANOS MIO, OREEN POR ESE SER. QUE EN EL NOMBRE DE DIOS LLEGO.

21 COMMISSIONS THAT HAVE COME TO CLEANSE, 21 COMMISSIONS THAT HAVE ARRIVED. CLEANSING AND

PURIFYING, IN THE NAME OF GOD. PRAY MY BRETHREN PRAY IN THE NAME OF GOD, FOR THE SOUL THAT HAS ARRIVED.

In Puerto Rican Espiritismo, there exists various Courts or Gathering Groups of Spirits known collectively as Las Commisiones. This group of spirits are part of an individuals Cuadro Espiritual, "spiritual frame" and make up a cadena espiritual, "spiritual chain" or Enlace,Espiritul "Spiritual link," with a person. On an Espiritista's tableau (altar) one will often see statutes or framed photos of Saints, Angels, pagan gods, indigenous spirits, Asian and Hindu gods, gypsies, spiritual animals, or mythical creatures all sharing a space on one altar. This makes up that particular Espiritistas, Cuadro Espiritul. But with one central piece usually being the largest, and that one being the Guia Espiritual. Or the larger can be a Guardian Angel, or an aspect of the Virgin Mary or a Saint, with a smaller statue of the Guia Espiritual towards the right side of the larger. One thing to note while a Principle Guide can often share space on a tableau. A Saint or a guardian angel should never be placed on a Fuente Espiritual. A fuente espiritual, "spiritual fountain" is an altar dedicated in the memory of Ancestral Spirits. Similar to an Afro Cuban Santeria boveda. My next blog will be on the Fuente Espiritual, the tableau altar and the Mesa Blanca.

Although I mention 21, there are more, these listed here are the Commisiones that work la obra de la Luz, the Way of the Light, and work for the Sancista and the Espiritista; in Obras espirituales "Spiritual Work" usually for the greater good of the person, "working with them" and the community. But can also be used in protection, fighting Spiritual warfare, and healing. They also work in helping a person with the development of their faculties, spiritual work, spell casting,amenities, spiritual growth,

bestowing insightful messages, answer and solutions to every day problems, just to name a few things they can do

Every human has one, two and sometimes three or more of these Spiritual Forces that make up an individuals Cuadro Espiritual. But with one being a person's central Guia Principal. (Principle Guide). You will often hear an Espiritista when giving a consultation or santiguando / limpia "a spiritual cleansing" say to an individual. You have a Cadena with a Gypsi, or a Marinero, or that a Madama follows you. Or that the person has an Indian Spirit that walks with him / her. Or that the person is spiritually married to a Cacique Indian, or even has a strong Spiritual link with a Congo Spirit. One thing is for certain each individual has a Patron Saint and a Guardian Angel that is part of the individuals Spiritual Frame and also a Principle Guide. The trained Espiritista can determine from the group of Commisiones which one is a person's Guia Principal (Principle Guide) through a Spiritual Mass or Seance, in which the Guia Principal will be the first spirit to manifest and mount the Espiritista or try and take possession of a person head through a Baptismal ceremony, and therefor claiming that persons head. Other ways of determining ones Guia Principal, can be done through divination, while under a trance, or through dreams. While an Espiritista determines which is a persons Guia Primcipal, they also can determine a persons Partron Saint or Angel de la Guarda, (Guardian Angel) in the same manner. Through a Misa Espiritual "Spiritual Mass," a Sesion "seance" or baptismal." Although a Patron Saints and a Guardian Angel can be determined in the same manner, they can also be determined by analyzing a persons family lineage, or the day a person was born to see if it correlates to the day of a Patron Saint, or Guardian Angel.

The belief in past lives and Reincarnation play a pivotal and major role in Espiritismo. The spirits are a chain or link to a persons past life and not only can they be Guias Principales but also can be either a lover, or a spouse from a past life, an ancient ancestral spirit, a departed family member, or even the culture or race the person was in a past life.

Usually the person has strong qualities or traits of the Guia Principal, that is often compared to that of astrology and the zodiac. For example, if the individual is flirtatious or loves to dance and dress in extravagant clothing, a Espiritista will say, they have a Gypsy spirit with them. Or the person loves to go fishing, enjoys the sea or could be a bit of a kleptomaniac, the person has a spiritual link or chain with a pirate spirit. Or an adult person has a mischievous nature, enjoys pranks, and often gets into trouble they have an Infantil. During a seance, fiesta espiritual or a spiritual mass, the person mounted by a spirit will display traits of that particular spirit. Note that it is not unheard of, that two spirits from the Commision are at odds and fighting for a persons head, and trying to be the main Principle Guide. When this happens, the person shows traits of both spirits.

There are Comisiones also that do harm, bring upon illness, diseases, mental problems, disorder and financial difficulties to name a few of the calamities to a person. This group of spirits are our own inner demons. This group of spirits has a link with an individual usually trying to find justice from a wrong or an injustice done unto them, from a past life, seek payment from a past dept, or dealing with a past life curse.

1. COMMISIONES DE CHAMANES, BRUJOS, YERBATEROS, TRABAJADORES ESPIRITUALES. - They aid in magic, herbalism,

healing, visions, knowledge of omens, Offerings - Aguardiente, black unsweetened coffee. Candle - Green, Brown

PUERTO RICAN CACIQUE CHIEF

2. COMMISIONES DE GITANOS AND GITANAS. - Gypsies, They aid in Divination, Fortune Telling, palmistry, love, and passion. Offerings - Crystals, tarot cards, playing cards, Aguardiente Liquor. Cigarettes. Candle - Red, Black

3. COMMISIONES DE MADAMAS Y MADAMOS - Negra Thomasa, Nego Jose. They are the care takers, those that aid in the home, and protection of the family and children. Offerings - Corn Meal, okra, coffee, cigars Candle colors - Red or white.

4. COMMISIONES DE PIRATAS Y MARINEROS. - Roberto Cofresí Ramirez de Arellano / el pirata Capitan Confresi, Capitan Henry Morgan. They symbolize courage, strength, fearless hearts, overcoming adversity. Offering. Rum, sugarcane, cigars. Color Candles. Red, black, white.

5. COMMISIONES DE INDIOS Y CACIQUES. - Los Tainos. The Buhuitihu, They aid in Spiritual warfair, judicial matters, patience, searching, aiding one in finding wisdom and knowledge of preColumbian spirits and Spiritual forces. Offerings - tobacco, black coffee, corn meal. Candle - Blue, Yellow.

6. COMMISIONES DE LOS ORIENTALES. El Buddha, Guanyin. They aid in money matters, luck, the lottery, luck in love, financial gain, and better business Offering - Citrus fruits, incense. Candle - pink, red.

7. COMMISIONES DE LOS ARABES. - They aid with the Wisdom of the magical forces of the Djjinn Offering garbanzo beans, garlic, flat bread, Olive Color Candles. Green and Black. oil.

8. COMMISIONES MEDICAS / SANTIGUADORES / CURANDERA. Jose Gregorio Hernandez They aid in all health matters, healing, finding a cure. Medacine and herbalism. Offering - herbal teas of all sorts. Candle, white. yellow.

9. COMMISIONSES DE LOS CONGOS. - Pa Francisco, Ma Francisca. The Congo Spirits are that group of Spirits who in Africa where Kings, Queen, of Royal heritage or important nobile figures in Africa but where slaves in the Americas. Pai Fransisco, Mai Fransisca, el Congo and La Kongas. They aid in Black Magic, defending against occult enemies and protection. Offerings - Cigars, Rum, okra, corn meal, tobacco and coffee Candle Color - Black,Brown, Orange, and Purple .

10. COMMISIONES DE LOS SANTOS. The Saints all have their own attributes. Each saint has its own color candle and offering.

11. COMMISIONES DE LOS HINDU. - Hindu The wisdom of the Hindu Gods. 7 multi color candle.

12. COMMISIONES DE LOS ANGELES. Guardian Angels. Each Angel has their own Color Candle and offering. White.

13. COMMISIONES DE LOS ESCLAVOS. Negra Amparo, Negro Felipe, Negro Jose, Negra Elena. They aid in courage, obstacles, hard work, and patience. Offering - same as Madama and Congo Candle - White Purple,

14. COMMISIONES DE LOS INFANTILES. Nino Divino, Nino de Atocha. This group of spirits are tricksters, who play pranks on humans, But can be very protective. Offerings - coins, candy, toys, sweets. Candle, yellow, orange.

15 COMMISIONES DE LAS BENDITA ANIMAS Y ANIMA SOLAS. Juan Minero, Maria Celestina Abdegano, Fransisca Durante. These Spirits will aid you in any undertaking as long as you offer them prayers, and light. Offering - Holy Water, Ice cubes, any liquor or drink to quench their thirst. Candle - Red Black

16. COMMISIONES DE LIBERTADORA. -This group aids you in wisdom, study, and court trials, freedom and liberation. Offering - Brandy, Cigars. Color - White, Yellow.

17. COMMISIONES DE LOS VAGABUNDOS, Y BOHEMIOS. - This group aids in poetry, written letters, music. Offerings, toast, bread or crackers. Candle, Brown, Green.

18. COMMISIONES DE LOS HEROES Y LIDERS. - This group of spirits aid you in battles of all kinds. Candle, White.

19. COMMISIONES AFRICANA. - Spirits that followed Los Misterios in life, the Orisha , Nikisi, and Lwa. They are the messengers of the Misterios and when they come down will show many characteristics of the Orisha and Lwa. Offering - each spirit has his/her own preferable offering. 7 Color Candle.

20. COMMISIONES ELEMENTALES. - Cuatro Vientos. Maria de los Cuatro Costales. This group of spirits fall under the four cardinal points, spirits of the Four Elements. Each element has its own color and offering.

21. COMMISIONES DE LOS JUANES Y LAS MARIAS. - Juan Negro, Juan Indio Juan del Tabacco. Maria de la Luz. This group kept the.secrets knowledge and wisdom of their people hidden and alive for future generations, and will aid you. In life they where not born with the name Juan or Maria, but where changed buy their white masters or because of religion.

El Desarollo Spiritual Development within Espiritismo

Within Espiritismo and Sanse one will often hear the term desarollando las facultades espirituales or developing ones spiritual faculties, which is the ability with the help of elders in developing ways of being an instrument for spiritual communication between the realm of the living and the realm of spirit. This in Espiritismo as is with Sanse starts at a very young age and is harnessed through ceremonies such as the Investigacion and through baptismal. In Sanse one also goes through receiving various Puntos to one's Sance spirits, and Lavadas de Cavesa "refresco de cavesa" which are essential and of great importance for building the foundation for one's Spiritual frame; which in tern aids an individual in better communication and being able to control the spirits that use the Medium's physical body to convey messages, and to protect the Medium from violent possesions. For the sake of my readers, although in Spanish Espiritistas and Sancistas are also called Mediamidades, I will use the English word Medium through out

this section. The act of being a Medium is also called psychophony, but in order for me to continue with this article, I would like to define the word. Psychophony from the Greek word psyke, which is the name given by Spiritism Religion for the phenomenon of humans mediums being messengers or vessels of spiritual communication between both realms of existence. Psychophony can be channeling spirits or receiving information from the Spirits within electronic objects such as television sets, radio, cameras or even a playing deck of cards. The most used form of psychophony within the Caribbean Latino community, is a spirit using the body or voice of a Medium as a means of conveying information through channeling or through mounting There are generally two types of Mediums, the conscious Medium which can be broken down into two, the semi conscious Medium and the fully conscious Medium, then there is the unconscious Medium. The conscious Medium is an individual who conveys messages from the spirits while aware of his settings and surroundings. They work in a light trance and are completely aware of the messages being brought forth by the spirits and of their natural surroundings. They can receive messages through any of the sences, such as sight, hearing, feeling, taisting or smelling, and can also use instruments of communication such as a pendulum, seashells, or even a deck of tarot cards. Many use Ouija boards, but this object is often fround apon by the Hispanic community as a form of conmunication with earthbound, trickster, intranquil spirits or lower denons. 'It is also important to note that Intuitive Mediums and writing Mediums fall under this category." The unconscious Mediums are those that go into a deeper trance, and often do not remember anything that happens while the Spirit takes control of the body. They are in a somnambulist state, like sleepwalking, where the body is fully animated, and can speak and hear, although what is spoken or heard is often forgotten when the Medium comes back. Writing Mediums may also fall within this category as well.

The conscious (including the semi-conscious and fully conscious) speaking Medium whom works in a lighter trance and has a certain consciousness of what the manifesting spirit is saying, while the words are being said, after the communication, he or she vaguely remembers what was said, these Mediums are the most common. The unconscious speaking Medium works in a deeper trance. He or she does not remember anything about the communication or what was said, when the spirit leaves. This is also called somnambulist psychophony (when the Medium is in the somnambulistic state, his or her spirit disengages easily from the body). These Mediums are much more rare. " Canalista = a channel is a verb and Medium is a noun. Channel describes and Medium labels."

Desarrollo de Facultades

Within Espiritismo and Sanse, ones spiritual faculties greatly depends on the relationship one has with one's spiritual family, spirit guide and spiritual frame, as well as ones psychic faculties.

I will briefly discuss the five major psychic faculties, also known as psychic abilities or extra sensory perception, ESP. They are as follows, clairvoyance, clairsentience, clairaudience, clairalience, claircognizance and clairgustance. Although all are known and practiced within the Latino Community, traditionally speaking three are most common. Clarividentes "videntes" are clairvoyant, those who can see the Spirits, Auditivos are those that display clairaudience abilities and can hear the voices of spirits, while Sensativos are clairsentience and can sense when a spiritual pressence is near. Typically within Espiritismo all three work as mutual benefactors for the other. But one is more predominant as the Medium develops and harnesses these skills at a young age. While the second and third play a symbiosis part in the development process, as the Medium grows, learns and acquires spiritual faculties and experiences through out life, although much of ones spiritual faculties is innate or like the five senses is inherent or inherited by other family members. The concept of one's innate senses stems from past life experiences, and reincarnation. While many believe it to be "el don" or the spiritual gifts given to an individual by God, this of course is true, but it is also knowledge acquired and received from past lives, which are brought into this life, and the next. This of course happens more frequently for those who where spiritual or religious in a past life, then lets say those who in a past life where not. The egsistance of past lives play a key role in ones spiritual progressions and faculties within this life and future reincarnations. Which leads to the question. Why are some individuals more spiritually advanced or have more psychic abilities or spiritual faculties then others? Or. "Why are some individuals born psychic or have mediumistic abilities and others do not? To answer this question, we must understand that we are all born with psychic abilities and spiritual faculties that are brought from previous past lives, which in often cases is forgotten as life goes from infant, to child, to young adult to adulthood.

The progression of many individuals spiritual faculties has alot to do with the will of God, as much as it has to do with ones family members, background, family beliefs and ones social and living settings, ones connection to Spirit Guides, and spiritual frame and ones personal motivation for developing these faculties. As I stated we are all born with these abilities, but they can either be forgotten with our physical growth in this life, or nourished, and harnessed. In todays present society, these abilities are frowned apon, and seen as things of imagination and fantasies. Often parents of children who display these abilities, do all in their power to stop its progression, or is often frowned apon and viewed as the work of malicious forces, Demoms or the Devil. Often times the abilities are strong in some, and no matter how much a parent tries to shelter or protect a child from "seeing apparitions or Ghosts" which usually starts of with the typical Imaginary Friend, it becomes stronger as times passes, many times it grows weaker. For those that it becomes stronger, often times the parents seek out help from a Doctor, a psychiatrist or a parish Priest, which often leeds in causing the child to feel abnormal, depressed and often becomes a solitary individual. Often not understanding and fearing the natural abilities he/she was born with. Many times a child who has strong psychic abilities or medium abilities and does not obtain proper training of their abilities often starts with the child seeing imaginary friends and often progresses to spirits of a malicious nature. For this reason Hispanics often bring their children to centros and templos, so that they may learn to develop, control and tap into their spiritual abilities. At a young age and if and when emerging mediamistic faculties or psychic abilities arise, those Hispanics who follow or believe in Espiritismo or Sanse bring their children to a Centro Espiritista or to a village Bruja, a Sancista and even a Santero, and a misa is done for the child. If the child has strong spiritual faculties he/she is taken under the wing and guidance of an elder and becomes an apprentice and receives baptisms or other developing rites of passages according to the tradition, which in tern makes the one performing the baptismal or other

ceremonies the Godfather or Godmother to the child, the child in tern then becomes the Ahijado or Ahijada. In modern days, unlike times long passed, a person displaying mediamistic or psychic abilities enters into the Centros during their young adult stage, usually from 16 to 24. When a child is taken in it is under the watchful eye of the parents, in the hopes that the child will grow, develop, control, harness, and learn how to regulate his faculties, which in tern will not only benefit the child but assures that in the future his/her faculties are used for the greater good and welfare of others and the community.

Education Within a Centro or Templo

A Spiritual Reunion or Misa is an event that although may serve many purposes, has three major function which are interdependent of each other and are as follows. 1). For those who make up the congregation, their Causas are lifted, and solutions for problems with a spiritual origin are analyzed and solved. 2). Ignorant, malicious or earthbound spirits are orientated or educated, and often prayed for so that they may leave the

material plane and understand the misfortunes it may be causing. 3). Developing Mediums of all ages have the opportunities in participating, learning and obtaining skills by observing their elders. For the developing Mediums, Espiritismo reunions and meetings provides a safe haven in which to explore and learn the spiritual world under the guidance of their Godparents, the Presidente de Mesa and other advanced Mediums who completely understand the realm of Spirit. The Centro or Templo serves not only as a meeting place for veneration, but as a spiritual school. While the Misas, Reuniones and Sesiones serve as educational classrooms, the Presidente de Mesa is like the Dean or Head Master, the Mediamidad de Mano Derecha and elder Mediums roles are similar to that of teachers or professors, while the under developed, developing mediums and the congregations are the alumni. As I have stated earlier, in pressent day many individuals who possess mediamistic or psychic abilities do not enter a centro or a templo until young adulthood. But in many hispanic families, these children receive home schooling by a Grandparent, parent or aunt or uncles who are believers in Espiritismo, Santerismo or Sanse and when they are old enough to choose, make the choice if they want to except their gifts and pursue their spiritual lessons and become a part of a centro or templo. Many times Mediamistic and psychic abilities skip a generation or two, leaving the young child who displays these faculties lost, alone, misunderstood and confused. Usually unsupported by their families who are either Catholics or Pentecostals, they make the choice to secretly join a centro, templo or casa de santo. In the beginning many developing mediums who never displayed mediamistic or psychic faculties have doubts about the authenticity of the communication they are receiving from the realm of spirit. They often have self doubts and are not sure if

the information they receive from the spirits, is in fact a spirit or the fragment of their imagination. Often this self doubts makes them reluctant in participation in Sesiones or Veladas, It is the responsibility of not just the Grandparents but also the advanced Mediums who are in charge of the Reunions to have patience with those who are in the stages of development. Little by little the developing mediums are asked to share any impressions or information they may receive, but in this stage their is never pressure. Only when the developing Mediums are completely confident are they asked to share any messages they may receive from the spirits. As the developing Mediums become more confident and are shown how to understand any messages they may be receiving, are they asked to share. If the developing Medium is gifted and demonstrates signs of "videncias' they slowly begin to have faith in their spiritual faculties. They come to realize they have gifts, when the Presidente de Mesa asks if the Videncias are true or false to the person who received the videncias. If they are true, or fit a circumstance it is "Comprobado", proven. Elder, Advanced Mediums and family members emphasize the importance of how a developing medium acquires the necessary skills and faculties in becoming an effective medium while learning through intent observation and practice. Developing the skills in becoming an effective medium requires much learning, and each Centro or Templo teaches a bit differently. But each agrees that one can only learn through, patience, observation and participation. A developing medium does not only learn the proper prayers, and how to conduct a safe and effective spiritual session. They are also taught the skills of how to differentiate between beneficial spirits and malicious spirits. This is an important lesson because it teaches the developing medium how to understand the various spiritual fluids and vibrations that they are receiving. This is an essential skill in the practice of mediumship because the inability to differentiate between beneficial spirits and malicious spirits can be detrimental to the developing medium as

he/she may follow the advice of ignorant, malicious or earthbound spirits. Many Espiritistas describe the fluides of malicious entities as a hot feeling, as if one is feeling flustered, fatigued, unease or disoriented. Symptoms may also include sharp headaches, nausea, a sharp feeling in the back of the head, or a discomfort in the lower back. Many times the Espiritista will feel nervous or chills, as the hairs in the back of the neck tingles, and finger go numb. Also if the fluids of the spirit is strong, one will feel sharp pains indicating how the spirit may have died. When the fluids are of a beneficial spirit, the feeling is described as cool, calm, refreshing and harmonious. Another important step in developing ones spiritual faculties is the ability of concentration. Mediums during Sesiones and Reuniones must learn to shut out the material world and its distractions and have complete consentration on the Reunion. A union of thought must be obtained with all Mediums pressent in order for the sesiones to be successful, and so that communication with the world of spirit may be obtained. For this reason it is imperative that all electronica devices are turned off, cell phones are placed in silence, phones are disconected and any distraction is removed. The focal point of the reuniones are the prayers, chants and songs, and if there is to be music, it must be of a spiritual nature. Once a developing medium learns how to concentrate, not only within the Centro but with meditation and quiet contemplation within their homes, then they prepare to learn the skills of "pasando espiritus, pasar muertos or montando seres", translated into English this would be referred to as passing the spirits or being mounted by the spirits. Within Espiritismo, Santeria and Sanse the word possession is never used. The word possession has negative undertones with in the Hispanic community, as it is used to describe the phenomenon that occurs when a demonic entity takes control of an individual, often by force. Pasar Muerto, or Montando Muertos means that one is willing to host a spirit within the body for the purpose of helping others, the Medium has control, while possession is

often used as not having control of the body or a spirit forcefully intruding in an individuals body. To Pasar los Espiritus, the Medium must learn to alter their subconscious mind into the state of trance, which is easier for advanced Mediums and not experienced by most. This of course greatly depends if the Medium is a conscious, semi conscious or unconscious medium, which I described in the begging of this post. Within the Espiritimo Centro the unconscious medium is known as la Medimidad de Mano Derecha, which is often a medium who has participated in the Centro for a long time and is well respected through out the community. He/she is often sought by many people because they have proven themselves to the community. These Mediums are very popular amongst Caribbean Hispanics and aee believed to be more powerful because they feel that the videncias given are more accurate, reliable and valid. Others prefer to go to a concious or semi concious Medium and recieve the information through a Velada or a private consultation using an oracle of divination such as a deck of cards or tarot. Most Mediamidad de la Mano Derecha describe their role within the Centro and community as being one that allows the Spirit to take complete control so that what the spirits are trying to say will not be contaminated by personal opinions or factors. Of course being a medium that passes spirits has its disadvantages. For one, the medium being mounted often has no recollection or memory of what the Spirit says. Another disadvantage is injury to the physical body, for this reason a Medium who mounts spirits must have an individual that safe guards the physical body of the person being mounted from injury. Often times, this role is given to an ahijado who stands behind the medium, protecting the body from any harm. Also with out another knowledgeable Medium, which is often the Presidente de Mesa or Mediums being present, it can be possible that an ignorant or obsessed spirit may come through, which can be dangerous for the Medium who is pasando muerto. Another important thing to understands that those who become mountad

by spirit, often come back drained, tired and fatigued and often spend the following day recuperating from the energy absorbed by the spirit that mounted the medium. In Puerto Rico, there is a saying for the Mediums who become mounted by Spirits. "Por cada muerto que pasas, tres gotas de sangre y un dia de vida perderas.". For each Spirit that mounts, three drops of blood and one day of life is lost. The concious Mediums are greater in number, as it is believed to be safer, as the Mediums do have control over their body at all times, but many believe that the messages received by the spirits can be contaminated with the Mediums personal biases or views on the matter at hand. But no matter if the Medium is concious or unconscious, they must have complete control of the situation, either by better judgment or the watchful eyes of other experienced Mediums. Within both Espiritismo and Sanse, one needs to make sure that the physical body of the medium is not in harms way, or if a spirit is aggressive, how to quickly banish it from the Medium who is mounted. Within Sanse one receives ceremonies to insure that violent spirits never mount the Sancista, while in Espiritismo precautions are always learned on dealing with negative or malicious entities. In Sanse before a Medium ever becomes mounted by a Spirit, they know the names of their Centinela and Guardian Spirit, which punto of Legba and Guede makes up their Cuadro Espiritual and they also receive ceremonies in which they recieve puntos to the Sances or Seres that make up their spitual family,and that they will work with for the rest of their lifetime, which insures protection from being mounted by earthbound or malicious spirits. Trabajando la Causa, or working the cause, is another important skill that young Mediums must learn. They must learn to recognize ignorant or malicious spirits, and learn how to remove negative fluidos left behind by these spirits, which can affect those who have no knowledge or be picked up by the Medium

which can be detrimental to ones spiritual growth. Evidencias or Revelaciones "evidence and revelations" is also a skill that a medium must learn. They must learn how to interper the messages received by spirit, and how to properly relay the messages to the intended individual. They must also learn to be sensitive and careful when interpreting these messages as some can be of a private nature and should only be told to the individual alone and not in front of the congregation. Privacy and confidentiality is an important skill that all Mediums must learn. The developing Medium will always learn many leasons through out life, but these are the lessons they will learn within a Centro, Templo or with a family who practiced Espiritismo or Sanse at home. But one of the greatest lesson and skills a Medium should learn is Control. Control over the Spirit that may mount the body, control over a Sesion or Reunion, control over trance or becoming mounted by spirit, control on how to turn on and off their clairvoyant abilities, and if not turn them off, control or not allow it to consume other aspects of their lives and the most important Control of the Ego which can be very detrimental. A Developing Mediums must learn to be receptive to the spiritual world and interpret effectively the revelations they receive from the realm of spirits.

Luz, Progresso y Santo Dia, y Que la Misericordia de Papa Buen Dios Todopoderoso, y tus Guias y Sanse siempre este con ud. Departe de Hermano Luis. / Sansista Brujo Luis y mi Guia Principal, Cachita Tumbo

CACHITA TUMBO

CACHITA TUMBO

CACHITA TUMBO

One day in the early summer of June 2006, I was walking through the quaint picturesque New England seaport town of Newburyport. It had been a year into me being baptized and receiving my first puntos within Sanse and I was returning shortly to receive other ceremonies. Although I had no spiritual encounters in my mind, just some whale watching and some New England souvenirs shopping for my God Parents, Mother and family members in Puerto Rico. I had no idea that the spirits, in the form of a photo, would find me. I had just come off of the whale watching tour, "an experience that I highly recommend every person do once in their lifetime", the adrenaline rush of the experience still had not settled. Just to be in the presence of these huge magnificent creatures of God and the feeling of how small one is in the scheme of things; next to these enormous docile and beautiful creatures, was one of the most euphoric experiences of my life. After whale watching, me and the group of friends who accompanied me on this day trip, sat down to grab some lunch. I remember sitting with them and talking about which whale was the Humpbacks, Minkes or Finbacks, because in all reality we did not have the slightest idea

on which was which, or for that matter which species we had seen. We also spoke of what stores and sights we were to visit in this tourist filled Massachusetts coastal town, when the conversation as it usually does amongst Hispanics took a turn into the world of spirituality, spirits and our spiritual journeys in life. On my part of the conversation, I talked of my abuelitos "grandparents" and of my summer visits with them in Puerto Rico and my Espiritismo upbringing. I spoke of the teachings they instilled within me and how I carried them deep within my heart. I talked about my Tia and her being the first Sancista in my family. I talked about how in my mid teens, I was invited by a school mate to his Godmother's Bembe for Ochun and how a Priestess Santera had become possessed by the Orisha Ochun and how under the influence of Ochun, claimed me as her child and prophesied that she would always be with me and that she would prove it with pruebas that all came true. I talked about my recieving my collares and Guerrilleros in Cuban Lukumi, my dabbling in American Pagan Witchcraft, my spiritual consultation with a Cuban Palero. I talked about my "pruebas" as prophesied by Ochun. My spyral down fall into depression and alcohol, and how the Orisha Ochun, my guia Cachita Tumbo and my Muertos led me back into Sanse and Espiritismo. It was a circle, a cycle I had to undertake to prove my spiritual strength and faculties in overcoming my trials and tribulations of life and coming out confident, wiser and stronger. After our lunch we decided to do some shopping and visit as many shops and botiques as possible. As we walked around the many red bricked sidewalks I decided to sit for a moment on a bench and light a cigarette and take a break from the hot June sun under a red maple, tree and I remenber thinking how amazingly beautiful Newburyport must be in October when the leaves of the Red Maple would turn its infamous fiery red and match the red brick buildings and red cobblestone streets of the seaport city.

Then out of the corner of my eye I saw a thrift store that sold carved wooden canes, that reassembled those used in Cuban Espiritismo Cruzado, and an array of Pagan glass witches balls and wind chimes that could be seen hanging from the window pane. I immediately got up and went in and looked around; not really looking for anything in particular, when I suddenly came upon this exquisite and unique image of the Virgen Mary and Christ Child. The Madonna was clearly a mulatta or meztisa, not the traditional blue eyed, blond haired, fair skinned Caucasian Virgin of Catholic paintings. She was dressed in a blue dress that looked as if it were made of blue water with a pink shawl tied to her side, her veil was white with golden embroidery, and around her and the holy child were orange daisies and yellow roses that encircled the crowns she and the child wore upon their heads. On further inspection of the photo I noticed that the Holy Child within the Virgin's arms and half covered by her vale was dressed in Pink and blue and resembled more a female child then the traditional male child. I remember thinking. "Ochun and Cachita Tumbo, and how this may have been how the Africans slaves and the Indigenous people of times long passed must

have felt on looking upon Catholic Saints, Angels and Holy Mothers, and envisioning within them their ancient spirits. I asked the lady how much was the framed photo, as it had to be mine. She smiled and politely said, that it had belonged to her mother who in life was devoted to this particular Madonna and had brought the image from Italy and that it was not for sale. I thanked her and asked her, who was this beautiful Virgin on the picture, and how the profile reminded me of Puerto Rico's patroness Our Lady of Providence and Cuba's Our Lady of Charity. Her reply to me was that it was la Madonna della Neve, her feast day was August 5th and that she was the patron of the village in Italy where her mother was born.

CACHITA DE LA CARIDAD Óyeme Cachita, tengo una rumbita pá que tu la bailes como la bailo yo. Cachita, Cachita Cachita! Mí pedazo de cielo que Dios me dio.

Many people confuse Cachita Tumbo with the Metresa Anaisa Pye, and although they are very similar Misterios that embody the essence of love, they are not the same. While it is true that both are Native Spirits, Anaisa Pye, or Anaisa la Chiquita as she is known in Puerto Rico, symbolizes raw sexual energy, and desire. In the Taino language Anaisa can be broken down to "Ana" meaning Yellow Flower, "I" being that of Spirit, Nana being a female girl child, Ni being that of water, and Xa pronounced Shah, loving nickname given to daughters. Many Taino women had the name Ana within their name or Iza as in Yuiza. Cachita Tumbo is seen as a Petro Loa of fertility, and has also been associated with the Orisha Ochun. Again they are very similar in that both spirits are of rivers and fresh waters. But while Ochun is an African Spirit known as an Orisha, brought to the Americas with the slaves, Cachita Tumbo is a Cemi / Zemis Spirit and has her origins in Taino spirituality that was believed to have been extinct and eradicated. Which in all reality it transformed for the perpouse of survival. As many Misterios often do, she can belong to various Division of Spirits. She is a Metresa as well as a Petro Spirit, and one that falls under the "Indio" Agua Dulce Division. In her being synchronized with Ochun she falls under the Lokomis Division of Spirits. (Lukumi) Cachita Tumbo has her origins in two Taino Zemis, the first being Atabeira the Mother of Fresh Waters and the other being Coatrisquie the Zemi who gathered the fresh waters and made them swell within her womb and created the floods.

Coatrisquie In the Lukumi tradition popularly known as Santeria, there is a legend that tells how Ochun and Oya are in constant competition and battle over the love of their husband Chango. This Santeria legend, which is known as an apataki is surprisingly similar to the Taino legend that tells the tale of when the female Zemi of

fierce winds Guabancex quarrelled with her messenger Guatauba / Guatava the Zemi of thunder, lightning and rainstorms they would create the Spirit Jurakan. This would unsettle the docile Coatrisquie / Coatrischi , who would fill her rivers with waters and eventually caused havoc on the Natives that built their Bohio "huts" along the riverbank. In a way this was as if the natural forces of Guatava, Jurakan Guabancex and Coatrisquie where having a cosmic battle. Guatava in his rainstorms would be equivalent to the male sperm while the rivers represent Coatrisquie's womb overflowing with water creating both death and from it rebirth and new life. Coatrisquie's overflowing would be as that of a woman's amniotic fluid inside her womb.

Atabeira

Atabeira / Atabeyra / Attabeira /Atabey was translated in Spanish to mean "Madre de las Aguas" or Mother of Waters, and was known by many names. Some being Apito, Siella, Suimado, Mamona, Guacarapita, Liella, Guimazoa, Iella, and Ieamaye. The latter Ieamaye sounding similar to the Orisha Yemaya and the Yoruba Yemonja, who was originally viewed as a River Deity that

resided within the Ogun River and was not associated with the Ocean until the Middle passages of the Slave Trade. Until then Olokun was viewed as the deity of the depths of the Ocean. (The Yamaye Taino tribe of Xaymaca "Jamaica" where named after her which they called Atabeira Ieamaye or Atabex .) Atabeira is the Supreme feminine deity of the Taino people and was worshipped as the progenitor of the life-giving earth God Yúcahu Bagua which was the Lord of Land and Sea. She was his equal and his feminine counterpart. She was the Goddess of fertility, motherhood and sexual desires. Her messengers in Borinquen where the tree frogs Coqui, whose matting call is increased during rainy season. In the time of the Taino this was an indication and a message from the Zemi to plant their crops, especially that of the cassava/yuca. It was a time when the earth was fertile, and sexual activities increased because of their confinement to their Bohio in part due because of the heavier rains. Atabeira and Yucahu are Earth Spirit Gods, and not to be confused with the Cosmic Creator of the universe Yaya, who was never directly worshipped by the Taino. In Taino Zemi petroglyph "carvings and drawings of the Zemis" Atabeira is often depicted in a squatting position. This position is symbolic of a women in preparation for sexual intercourse, the position held during childbirth, the position held by women during the release of urine and feces and the position of her messengers the Coqui tree frogs. The first three are symbolic of Atabeira as the creator, of the earth God Yucahu, humans on earth and the sea, which is her urine, and as a sexual deity.

Praise to Attabeira Bibi Atabey. Attabeira Yermao Guacar Apito Zuimaco, Atte aya Yocahu Bagua Maorokoti, Coaiba Mamona, Atte itabo era, Aturo aya wakia Itiba Cahubaba, Ocama Yucayeke Taino Wakia Arawaka, Yermao waka waili, Wakia Yari, Busica Ketauri, Inaru Matum. Busica wakia Ahia Hu De Tai Ku Buya Jan Jan Nabori

Daca, Jan Jan Katu. Mother Atabey oh Great Attabeira Yermao Guacar Apito Zuimaco. Mother of God, Heavenly Mother of the Moon, Mother of Waters, Sister of our Ancient Bleeding Mother. Hear our Taino People and Protect our Children, Our Precious Jewels. Give us Life oh Generous Woman. Give us your Blessing, Good Spirit Yes. I am your servant. So Be It

Mama Cachita Tumbo

CACHITA TUMBO

Cachita Tumbo embodies both Atabeira and Coatrisque, and as thus is an enormously powerful Misterio. She is a lover, a mother, a teacher and the provider of the sweet waters that sustains life on earth. But as she is a giver of life she is also a destroyer and rebuilder, she is the energy that can destroy in order to make way for new life.

Her first name Cachita comes from a few words with Taino origin. The word Cacica which means female supreme chief and ruler, the Taino word Calichi which means the Fountain from the highest Mountain, and Kachi which means golden ray of light from the Sun. In Caribbean Creole Spanish Cachita is a broken down word for little one, Chiquita. (One must understand that the Indigenous people where shorter in stature than the European.) Also as I stated before Caxi which was a shortened version of the name for Coatrisque. Tumbo is Spanish for a violent motion of the body, first going in one direction and then to another direction, which is generally caused by a lack of balance. It can also come from the word, Tumbar which means to tumble, topple or overthrow. This emphasizes Cachita Tumbo's abilities to cause floods within villages, an occurrence that happens today with rural pueblos near rivers. Cachita Tumbo can also be felt through her abilities to be a conductor of electric currents. She is the Misterio that converts fluid flow energy to electric energy. Cachita Tumbo also works with other Spirits of the Agua Dulce Division such as Padre de Agua or El Rey del Agua, who is also called Agua Dulce, or Baba Yague and is synchronized with Saint John the Baptist. Without the watchful eye of Padre de Agua, baptisms into Sanse would be almost impossible. Rio Tempestoso which is synchronized with Saint Christopher and Tindjo Alague which is synchronized with Saint Rafael. Unlike Santeria in which all the Orisha have their own numbers, in Puerto Rican Sanse the Misterios share the number, 3, 7 and 21. But each has their own offerings, and like Ochun, Cachita Tumbo enjoys pumpkins, honey, eggs, citrus fruits, Brown sugar, cinnamon, star anise as well as Mangoes, guavas, guanabana sour sop and quenepas. She enjoys sweets, perfumes, mirrors, jewelry and fans. Her colors are amber, yellow, gold, orange, blue and green. Unlike Anaisa she does not enjoy tobacco, but does like Spiced Rums, champagne, beer, and Anisette liquor.

Traditionally her image is that of Our Lady of Charity, while others use Our Lady of Divine Providence, and her feast day is celebrated with that of la Caridad del Cobre, which is September 8th.

Oracion a Cachita Tumbo

CACHITA TUMBO

¡Oh Cachita, Cachita Tumbo! ¡Oh Espíritu de la Cacica India, Cachita Tumbo! Gran Metresa Reina Soberana de el amor. India morena de mi devocion, de piel dorada, canela con miel. No me desampare de su proteccion, y guia me, de noche y de dia. En nombre del campo sagrado, del Padre, Hijo, y Espiritu Santo. Salve Reina Madre Cachita Tumbo. Ten piedad sobre mi. Gracias y Misericordia Mama Cachita Tumbo. Jan Jan Katu, Aché y Amen.

Prayer to Cachita Tumbo. ¡Oh Cachita, Cachita Tumbo! ¡Spirit of the female Indian Chief, Cachita Tumbo! Great Mistress sovereign queen of love. Indian Spirit of my divotion, she who is of

golden skin with cinnamon and honey. Guide and protect me and do not forsake me, neither night nor day. In the name of the Sacred Fields of Spirits, and the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Praise be Queen Mother Cachita Tumbo. Show mercy apon me, and for this I shall thank you Mother Cachita Tumbo. So be it, Amen. The Concept of Viewing these Spirits as whores, harlots and prostituetes.

CACHITA DE LA CARIDAD THE SIBONEY TAINO AND THE AFRICAN SLAVE.

I can not tell you how many followers of African Traditional Religions in the Americas, discredit and have the false concept that the Orisha Ochun, the Misterio Cachita Tumbo is a lady of the night or that the Loa, Anaisa Pye is a Prostitute. This way of viewing these spirits stems from the repressed mind set of the dominant Christian views that were placed upon us in the Americas. Let me explain this by talking about the biblical Mary Magdeline, who was believed to have been a Prostitute. In all reality there is no mention of her ever being such in any of the biblical versus, she was a woman plagued by seven demons. Jesus felt pity

apon her and casted out these demons from her body. She was so grateful that she became one of his most beloved disciples and followers. When the 12 male disciplines, with the exception of John the Beloved abandoned Jesus during his arrest, persecution and crusification, it was she who never left his side. She was present in the crowd when he was persecuted, was present during his crusification, was one of the women pressent during the burial of Christ, along side Jesus mother Mary, was one of the few that anointed his corpse with perfumed oils, and was one of the first to witness his resurrection. Mary Magdeline was incorrectly and falsly believed to have been the same woman, who was to be stoned to death for practicing prostitution on the Holy Sabath day, and her life was saved and spared by Jesus. She latter anointed Jesus feet with oil and washed them with her tears, kisses and hair. In all reality this woman by name was never mentioned in the Bible. The view of anything feminine holding power or great importance was not only discredited within Christian religions but Christianity also placed this belief within African and Native American spirituality. While both African and Indigenous female spirits are known for being highly sexual entities. This view has to do with them fertilizing the earth and making it sustainable, and livable for human life on earth. To view them as whores or prostitues, one is literary subjecting oneself to the Spanish Conquistadors mind set of African Woman and Taino woman being less than Perras,"bitches." Women within indigenous cultures were not oppressed or seen as less than their male counterparts, in fact they were viewed as equals. Women were the mothers, they could hold titles of Chiefs, could bring forth life, were the medicine woman who understood the wisdom of the healing of herbs. They were intellegent. had minds of their own, and while men seeked war, the women seeked peace and communal understanding with apposing tribes and the Spanish. They were also fierce warriors and fighters, and the Amazon Rainforest was named after a tribe of warrior native women that resembled that of the Amazons of Greek and Roman mythology. Every country in the Americas has their version of Pocahontas,

Anacaona, Yuiza, Kateri Tekakwitha and Sacagawea who through wit and wisdom played their important roles of both saviors and betrayers of their people's ways which is similar to that of the Egyptian Cleopatra or France's Marie Antoinette. While the female Orisha and Loases do embody the pleasures of life and sexuality, they are also represented as destructive forces that equal that and are sometimes greater than their male counterparts. They represent the need for freedom, and self expression, and also the dangers that follow when abusing anything in nature. The Loases and Orisha do enjoy sexual activities, dancing, laughter, music and those material things that are viewed by the living, as the finer things in life, they must also be viewed as Spirits of empowerment. But many initiates wrongly self project their desires and needs for the inappropriate behavior of touching or fondling others or the excuse for excessive drinking of alcohol and attribute it with that of being under possession of a Loa or Muerto. I honestly believe that these are not the ways of the Orisha or Loa, but the ways of one's own personal demons which are placed in our presence and paths to overcome and conquer. As my Abuelita would say. "Por cada un Angel que tenemos hay diez Diablos a su rededor". For each Angel that we have, Ten Devils surround it.

Salve Reina Madre Cachita Tumbo. Ten piedad sobre mi.

TCHA TCHA LINEAGE Sacred Rattle the Power in Your Hand.

One thing that every tradition, every culture, and every spiritual or earth related tradition share in common is the use of the Sacred Rattle, it is present in some form in every culture and Continent. Whether the rattle is a coconut or gourd maraca, filled inside with sacred seeds, or a latticework of glass beads or cowrie shells woven into a net and covering the outside of a dried gourd, such as it is with the Shekere or the cabasa; or a stick with shells, bones or nuts tied to one end. The rattle in its many forms and shapes is one of three man made musical instruments found in some form in every culture and country. "The others being the drum and fluits, which is another article in itself.". In many societies around the world the sacred rattle always distinguishes those individuals of power, such as a Shaman, witch doctor or Medicine men, and it in itself is considered one of the most sacred of tools. There was a time that the Maraca and Sacred Rattles were viewed by Christians as the Devil's instrument, or the instrument of savages, because of their association with shamans and witch doctors, and for this reason its use was outlawed. In the Caribbean the instrument went into hiding, and was used by secret societies or within private ceremonies, as to be caught using the rattle was punishable by death by the Spanish Government officials and Cristian authorities. But the ancient gourd rattles, shekeres and maracas would not stay quiet for long, and after the Spanish American war these instrument came out of hiding and soon it became a popular musical instrument, adapted into the musical

styles of Mambo, Guajiras, Le lo lai, Merenque and Salsa, and was used in a similar fashion as the Bohiques and Bohitu Shamans who used them in their Arieto ceremonies long passed. The various African and Indigenous earth related magico spiritual and religious systems within the Americas has and to this day uses its sacred rattle. Haitian Vodou has its Asson, Cuban Santeria uses its Asheke, Dominican 21 Division uses the Tcha Tcha, and Puerto Rican Sanse uses the Amaraca, which is also called the Matraca or simply la Maraca. For this reason one will often hear that many Vodouist are part of the Asson lineage while traditions such as Sanse and 21 Division are of the Tcha Tcha lineage. The Caribbean Taino Bohique and Bohitu "Chamanes / Shamans" as the Shamans in every other culture also treasured their rattle, known as Amaraca "a Taino word from where we get the modern word for Maraca". It was used as a tool to aid the Bohique in focusing his energies and as a tool for clearing out a space of unwanted energies. The Maraca is an instrument of great power, and similar to that of a European Wizard's wand, through the Maraca rattle, the Bohiques could communicate with the realm of spirits, and summon deities. They could repel or vanquish unwanted spirits, heal, bless, activate the healing properties of roots, herbs, talismans, amulets, beads and stones. Like a European Sorcerers Wand, the sacred rattle is an extension of the body and works as the pointing finger in which we get our desires, and will pointed and focused outwards from the body. The sacred rattles are emblems of seeking that which is Holy, and it establishes a connecting link between the material world and the spiritual realm. Through the proper use of the rattle, the Shaman could manifest the presence of spirits and deities. The sacred rattle is viewed as the phallus or a phallic symbol, and is always associated with the male sexual organ, and through the use of the sacred rattle we project our energy and acts as a symbolic male orgasm. Symbolically the Maraca or Tcha Tcha represents the joining of the two most important magic principles: the sacred and protective circle at the round end and

the magical wand at the handle.

TCHA TCHA / MARACA LINEAGE The Maraca or Sacred Rattle works through sound vibrations, and is always used to concentrate sacred space, and create protective barriers. In Haitian Vodou the Asson as is the Sanse Amaraca is used to summon the Loa, the Sances or the Messengers while at the same time warding of negative earth bound spirits which often get confused or can not tolerate the sound frequency. It literally acts as a Rattlesnakes rattling its tail letting predators or unwanted energies and vibrations know that you acknowledge their presence, and to take your warning or you will attack. It is also used in all Vodou, Sanse, Santeria and 21 Division rites of passages, and ritual ceremonies. Along side herbs, tobacco, blessed waters and salt the sacred rattles are used for cleansing an individuals aura. It helps the practitioners of Shamanism, Sanse and Vodou in opening up blocked energy fields and help in binding or fixing weak or torn layers of the auric layers, which helps in re-establishing energy flow known as Ashe and

removing psychic dirt or unwanted energy. But one of its most fundamental uses within Sanse, 21 Division and Vodou is to help in altering the state of mind or consciousness, which allows for the possible mounting of Loa, Orisha or spirits of ones spiritual frame. The Maraca or sacred rattle helps the brain to concentrate, focus and tune in to the frequency range of the Spiritual realm. Traditionally a Shamans rattle was inherited, and more were accumulated with the passing of generations. In Sanse as is with 21 Division Vudu, the sacred rattle is received during a baptismal ceremony and never directly purchased by the aprendis or ahijado/a. The rattle is blessed and concentrated by the Papa Bocor, Mama Mambo or Sancista in front of the badji altar and is given to the ahijados, often in his/her last ceremony, usually la Coronacion, as a symbol that the ahijado is know a Bohique, a Shaman, a Sancista, a Papa Bocor or Mama Mambo. One thing that some societies of Sanse shares similar with Haitian Vodou are three major tools, with the exception that Hatian Vodou often use three tools in one, while Sanse keeps them separate but often use them simultaneously. In Haitian Vodou they have a beautiful and unique sacred rattle which is unique to Haitian Vodou alone called the Asson. The Asson takes three diftent instruments and combines them into one. The maraca, the shekere and the altar bell. In Sanse we do not combine the three into one, but use them separately and as I have stated often use them simultaneously. In Sanse we use the Maraca as the first tool of choice, and this sacred rattle represents Agua Dulce or the Indian Division. The second item we use is the brass bell which represents Division Blanca, and is also used to call on Catholic Santos, the Division Blanca known as Rada, and the Emisarios and Comiciones that work under them. A small shekere or cabasa instrument is used to represent and call la Division Prieta also known as Division Negra or Division Morena "Black Division", and is used to call not only the Prieto or moreno spirits, but also spirits of the Comisiones such as los Congos, las Madamas, los Esclavos or los Cimarones.

LA SANTA CAMPANA THE SANCTUS BELL

In my summers in Puerto Rico as a kid and under the care of my Abuela and uncles, I was fortunate enough to visit the Centro Espirituales, where my grandmother was a participating member and well respected Espiritista medium. On the white clothed table where the Presidente de Mesa and all the mediums would sit around, stood a desk bell, the kind that is rung by hitting the little nob to make it ring. This item was a very popular ritual tool in Puerto Rican Espiritismo. Although I personally favor the bell with the handle I have one on my ancestral shrine and tap it every morning when I awake and every night before I go to sleep. When I have Misas and Sesiones those who bring offerings such as candles, flowers and other items, tap on it before placing it on the altar. The use of the sanctus bell is highly used in spiritual masses, and fiesta espirituales as a form of letting all those know who have come to attend the event that a supernatural event is taking place before the altar. It is also rung heavily when a medium is

about to mount a Loa or Spirit as a protective measure so that no earth bound or malignant force enters. While the Rattle symbolizes the masculine phallic symbol, the bell represents the joining of both, the joining of the phallic with the yonic or vulvic "womb or vagina" to create life. The tongue or clapper of the bell is often made of two parts and symbolize the male semen and the female clitorus. "The ball part of the rattle can also be viewed as a womb, the sacred circle and earth." Present day Church bells derive from ancient Pagan traditions and not the other way around as most would have you believe. It is believed that the first metal bells appeared in the Bronze age around 3000 B.C. in either Eastern or Western Asia. Like the rattles bells are a powerful space and area cleanser. Obviously they do not pick up material dirt and debris but they are excellent tools in summoning benevolent spirits, expelling malignant entities, for healing and meditation. The bells are always rung to let those know a ceremony is to begin and when a ceremony is to end. The traditional metal for bells should be iron, brass, or silver, and they are always kept on the house altars and shrines. Bells can be hung near doors on windowsills, outdoors and indoors. As the wind blows on bells and chimes it acts as a repellent for unwanted vibrations. It is believed that if an indoor bell rings by itself, this could be a sign of danger, often of an occult kind, and proper divination should be done and cleansing of the home. Also if a bell falls unexpectedly, this is a warning sign of envy, gossip or a psychic attack. Every tradition uses its bells in some form, may it be a cow bell, altar bell, a bowl bell with mallet, or chime bells and should be added into your daily use.

TOOLS OF A MODERN DAY SHAMAN

LA MANO PODEROSA THE POWERFUL HAND IN PUERTO RICAN FOLK BELIEF

One of the most iconic symbols in both Mexican and Puerto Rican folk art is the Mano Poderosa or the All Powerful Hand, and while it does have much Catholic "Cristian" elements, and its based on the Cult of Saint Ann and the Holy Family. Much of its elements are rooted in folk Espiritismo traditiones, West African Religion and Indigenous Spiritual beliefs. The Mano Poderosa as we know it today is an ancient symbol of protection and its idea was brought to Mexico and the Caribbean by Spanish and other European settlers and missionaries who settled in Latin America. Saints and religious paraphernalia such as Las Cinco Personas or Los Cinco Señores, was used as a way of teaching the then illiterate African and Indigenous population the life and veneration's of its Catholic saints. Originally the Santos brought to the Americas where wooden statues or expensive art paintings. The earliest known folk art of the Mano Poderosa "with hand intact" comes from Mexico in its tin Retalbo form that dates back from around 1807 through 1809, and then in Puerto Rico in its Santo de Palo wooden saint carvings forms that date from 1915. The Puerto Rican Wooden Mano Poderosa mimicks its elder Mexican predecessor Tin Retalbo, with some differences. Often the Mexican Mano Poderosa demonstrates the Cinco Señores "Seniors" or Cinco Personas each on top of a finger of the hand, while the hand rests on a chalice, as blood from the wound on the palm over flow es and quenches the thirst of a group of 7 "Seven" sheep or lambs. The Puerto Rican Mano Poderosa does not include the Chalice or Lambs, but rests on a heavenly cloud, surrounded by what seams like four Archangels, which are believed to be Saint Michael, Saint Rafael, Saint Gabriel and Saint Uriel. Each of the angels is holding an emblem of the Passion of Christ, one angel carries the thorned crown, another the cross, one the holy sponge, hammer and nails, while the fourth is holding what seams like a pillow or bowl of blood, in some instances only three of the Angels hold an item from the Passion of the Christ while one clasps his/her hands in prayer. Another difference between the Mexican Mano Poderosa and the Puerto Rican Mano Poderosa is the position of the Saints. In the Puerto Rican Mano Poderosa, the child Jesus, or Niño Jesus sits

on the thumb, the Virgin Mary stands on the pointing finger, Saint Joseph on the middle finger, Saint Ann on the ring finger and finally Saint Joachim on the little finger. Its Mexican predecessor follows this order. Saint Joachim on the thumb, Saint Joseph on the pointer, the Christ Child on the middle, Mary on the ring finger and Saint Ann on the pinky. In painted form, both include cherub angels looking down from the sky. The Mexican Mano Poderosa often includes either God or a white dove "holy spirit, la palomita blanca" above the hand, which often is not included in the Puerto Rican Mano Poderosa and symbolizes the holy spirit. Both Mexican and Puerto Rican Mano Poderosa depict the open palm which demonstrates the stigmatic wound made by a nail. Some say the hand is the adult hand of Jesus Christ, while others say the hand is that of Saint Francis of Assisi who is commonly believed to be the first Saint to have suffered and lived with the stigmata. In both traditions, the hand is the right hand, and on rare occasions one will find the left hand used.

LAS CINCO PERSONAS For those who understand the art of Western Palmistry or palm

reading "as apposed to Eastern Palmistry", in the Mexican Version the Hand is often an Earth hand, while the Puerto Rican version is a Fire Hand. Also the wound appears to be in the center of the head and heart line, while the tip of the wound closest towards the fingers touches the line of the destiny or fate, which is jointed to the life line, each of the lines are strong and very visible. Again Mary stands on the Jupiter finger, Joseph on the Saturn finger, Saint Ann on the Sun finger and Saint Joachim on the Mercury finger. The thumb is called the Moon Finger and it is where Jesus stands. "In Puerto Rico the term Santero had nothing to do with the Yoruba Ocha tradition, usually a Puerto Rican Santero was a practitioner of Espiritismo or a Catholic who was a carver of Saints of wood." To my knowledge the Mano Poderosa has not been officially recognized by the Catholic Church, but it has become a staple religious icon not just in Mexican and Puerto Rican cultures but in all Hispanic cultures which have included it into their folk religious practices, many usually of an Espiritismo tradition.

THE HAND The Hand in many cultures has always been seen as a symbol of protection and magical occult and arcane powers, from black magic to white and everything in between. We know of the Hand of Glory, the Hand of Power, Hand of Fatima, the Mano de Azabache "Mano Fico" , and the Mano Cuernuto. The Hand in ancient and primitive times has always been viewed as a source of magical powers, and gestures such as the form we bestow our Benediction, the way we communicate messages, and as a form of directing our energies. It is with our hands that we clasp them in prayer and deviation, we greet others, and use our hands to manifest our wishes and desires with Spirits and deities. With our Tcha Tcha, Maracas, Chekeres and Cabasas we invoke our spirits which is held in our hand, and with our hands

we draw our Sigils, Firmas and Veves as a form of communicating with the Spiritual world. It is with our hands we play music to the spirits, and through our hands we communicate the will of the Spirits through oracles and divination. In many religious traditions, the right hand is associated with cleanliness and benevolence, while the left hand is associated with filth and evil, it is for this reason the Left Hand Path is another term for black magic and Satanism. The right hand is viewed as the hand of God while the left is viewed as the hand of Satan. In Vodou and Sanse we do not hold this view. In our traditions we view the left hand as the hot hand, the hand in which we venerate our Spirits which deal with a hotter energy such as the Petwo and Gede, while our right hand, we view as the cooler hand, that which deals with cool energy such as that of the Rada. This does not mean that the Spirits of a hotter energy are demonic or evil as would be viewed in a Christian point of view, this simply means that these Spirits of nature and the cosmos are seen in our limited human minds as being of a hotter more aggressive nature. It is no surprise that when we make offerings we hold the candle and fire water "liquor" offerings in our left hand, while our water offerings we hold in our right. If you enter any Botanica you will often come across 7 day candles, holy cards, pictures, prayer pamplets, oils, powders and even statues of the Mano Poderosa. It is a very important Espiritismo talisman used for protection, and warding of evil and it is a staple altar piece for those who practice Puerto Rican Espiritismo and Sanse. As is with the traditions that use the talisman the Mano Poderosa is a blending and syncretism of various beliefs, such as Taino, West African, and European Spanish beliefs. La Mano Poderosa The Powerful Hand and the Loa "Oricha" that are represented. Similar to the image of the Seven African Powers which demonstrates seven Catholic Saints with African Orisha names

printed below each one, the Mano Poderosa in Sanse temples and societies are viewed as Loa Spirits, for example. 1. Saint Joachim = Papa Loko or Papa Boco 2. Saint Joseph = Ogun Herrero, Ogun Carpintero or Ogun Guerrero 3. Saint Anne - Gran ErSili "Erzulie' , Grann Aloumba Daome 4. Virgin Mary - Anaisa Pye 5. Child Jesus - Piti Solier or Chiqui Sole Three of the four angels also represent a Loa. Saint Michael is Belie Belcan Tomeh, Saint Rafael is Indio Alague or Tindjo Alawe, and Saint Gabriel is Gran Cali. Saint Uriel has not been associated with a Loa in Puerto Rico, "although some say he is part of the Legba or Gede Nation" but still greatly respected, as each of the Angels also represent Los Cuatro Vientos. There are generally 9 main figures in the Mano Poderosa, 9 in Hispanic cultures is known as the number of the dead, "la Novena" but it also symbolizes patience and harmony. Nine is the number for accomplishing ones destiny and divine will, as well as the number of immortality. Also it is said that Jesus died on the cross on the 9th hour, and he appeared to his disciples and apostles nine times after his Resurrection.

LA ORACION THE PRAYER

"O Powerful Hand of God! I place my Christian soul before you, and in my despair and anguish, beseech you to aid me with your almighty power. At your feet I place the devotion of my sorrowful heart that I might be delivered from my suffering. May the loving kindness of your power help me and give me strength and wisdom to live in peace and happiness. Amen.

Aquí vengo con la fé de un alma cristiana, a buscar Tu misericordia en situación tan angustiosa para mí. No me desampares y la puerta que quiera abrirse en mi camino, sea tu mano poderosa la que me la cierre para no entrar en ella si no me conviene, o me la deje abierta, si ha de volver mi tranquilidad tanto tiempo deseada. A tus pies dejo esta súplica, que te hace un alma obligada por el destino a grandes sufrimientos, que ya no puede combatir si Tu mano poderosa no tiene la ley de la razón. . Dios mio, perdona los desaciertos que yo he cometido durante esta existencia, la cual llevo de frente, dame fuerzas para soportar las amarguras de esta vida.

Las Gitanas Sanse Vodou Spirits

Haitian Vodou in all its forms and branches such as Dominican 21 Division, Puerto Rican Sanse or New Orleans Voodoo are traditions that empowers women. In our rites, women are viewed as equally strong, as important and at times stronger then their male counterparts; this feminine power manifests itself with the Lua and Spirits we venerate. In Sanse we respect and acknowledge all spirits of light, all the saints "Santos as we call them" wether they are Catholic, African, or Native American, every Misterio we respect them all, both masculine and feminine energies. It is not unheard in our traditions that the energies of Yemalla del Norte, are as powerful and when inprolerly harnessed are as dangerous as those energies manifested through the Ogou Nation. Within our traditions you cant be a spiritual person and ignore these facts. Papa Legba the gatekeeper, the great messenger and Fa the Lord of Infinite Wisdom, himself knows this to be true, and for this reason many of our Loases have both masculine and feminine sides, energies, vueltas or counterparts, they represent the spectrum of night and day, of good and evil,, of fatherhood and motherhood, brotherhood and sisterhood, of that which is known

and that which is unknown, that which is evident and obvious with that which is mysterious. As far as the Lua venerated in Vodou and all its branches, sometimes what may appear to have its branches in one Continent, has its roots in another, and no other spirits within the Sanse and Espiritismo traditions holds this true as does the Court of the Gypsies. The Gypsies have always been associated with divination, may it be palmistry, tarot cards, crystal ball gazing or tea leaf reading and are also known for their love and mastery in music such as the violin, Spanish guitar, and castanets as they are known for their unique form of Gypsy magic. For this reason in Puerto Rican Sanse, Brazilian Umbanda and Venezuela Marialionzero Tres Potencias they are viewed similar as the ancient Muses, Satyresses and Satyr of Greek mythology. While many associate cartomancy with the Commissions of the Madamas, many followers of Sanse, Espiritismo Cruzado, Santerismo, Umbanda, and Mesa Blanca have also rightfully so included the Gitanos with cartomancy. We all have Spirits that make up our Spiritual frame, and each has an important role within our spiritual growth and development. Often times traits of the Spirits are manifested on the individual who has a certain court or commission of Spirit within their cuadro, which is similar to the traits of ones Astrological sign or Zodiac. It is more than likely that if you live a bohemian / nomadic existence, move around allot and enjoy some form of divination be it Tarot, dice or palmistry, and enjoy acoustic music such as Flamenco or soulful Canto Jondo, than you might have a Gypsy spirit that makes up your Cuadro Espiritual. Now unlike some traditions who just pray or work magic with spirits such as La Madama or Indian Spirits, in the traditions I have previously mentioned, we don't just pray to them, we interact with them, they mount our mediums and fiscally interact with us which makes our relationship to these spirits very personal, and unique. More personal than that of just praying or working conjuration in front of a resin or ceramic lifeless statue,

wondering if they are present or for that matter, even listening to our supplications. In fact many traditions outside of the various branches of folkloric Espiritismo have the misconception that we give daily prayer to the Spirits of our Cuadro Espiritual, when in fact we really don't. These Spirits are guides and although we have popular prayers for them, we do not kneel in front of them and pray as we would, lets say a Saint, an Angel, Orisha or Loa; we recite prayers as a form of veneration or when we wish to ask something of them. Traditionally the prayers for the Guides in our Cuadro, such as for los Indios, Madamas, Gitanas, Morenas, or Congos are used in Sesiones in order to invoke that particular Spirit to manifest itself. So in this sense they are not really prayers, but in all actuality invocations, and evocations which in time have been white washed into the popular prayers found today in books sold in Botanicas. On a general basis we speak to our spirits as we would any living incarnate spirit Usually the traditional prayers, (Invocations) followers a traditional song, which helps us and the Mediums in concentrating deeper and as a form of enticing that particular spirit we are invoking or singing to, to manifest or mount itself within an experienced Mediums body. For us the Spirits of the Commissions as are los Muertos, Loa and Oricha are alive and present and do interact with us on a daily basis and during Misas, Sesiones and Fiesta Espirituales. The Gitanos are also the same, they often come dancing, or smoking pipes, the younger female spirits are flirtatious and coquettish, the males are pranksters and tricksters, while the older are more serious and sareen.

Know yes Vodou Priests and Priestesses known as Houngan and Mambos as are the Papa Boko and Mama Mambos of 21 Division and Sancistas are viewed by many as magicians, or sorcerers, and as the popular European sorcerer who works with his traditional magical tools of harnessing energy such as the wand, cup, bell and athame, which help him / her manifest his corrientes and the fluidos of the spirits. The Houngan "Vodou Priest" Papa Boco and Sancista also has his / her sacred tools to aid him/her manifest their will, and it is through the proper usage of these sacred tools, songs, dances and chants that the energies of these Spirits are enticed to manifest. Within Sanse and Santerismo the Gitanos fall under the leadership of a certain Division or Loa, for example although the Madamas fall under la Sirena they can also work closely with other Misterios or Loases. The Congo spirits often fall under the Ogun or Candelo Division, the Marinero and Piratas fall under Ague, and so forth, the same is true of the Gitanos. Although this group of Spirits can work with any Loa such as las Metresas and in life many of the Romany people venerated Santa Sara la Kali as their patron Saint " who has become a Loa in her own right", the Gitanos fall under the Legba Nation, they are not Legba Loa

or Misterios themselves but Spirits who work under them, as Emisarios, Sance or Mensajeros. Similar to the Legba Nacion, the Gitanos are travelers, bohemians, often outcasts, quick to learn a language, quick to adapt into any and all cultures although, they hide within the outskirts of the aceptables societies normal way of living, are always greatly misunderstood and often viewed as wanderers of the earth. The Gitano or Roma as they are also known are surrounded by so much mythology and folklore, as I have stated in earlier articles on these people and spirits. Many mythical tales associate the Gypsies with being the black smiths "Ogou" who where tricked into making the nails used to crucified the Savior, while others clam that the Gypsies are the descendants of Cain and the Canaanite people. Still others claim that prior to Eve, Adam had a wife named Lilith who was said to have given birth to the first Romany "Gypsy", while others claim that the mythical Wandering Jew was in fact the first Gypsy. Still others claim the Gypsies as being the descendants of Judas Iscariot. Although much of this is in fact based on mythology, it is sad to note that most of the Gitano folklore is based on fear, prejudice and misunderstanding of this people. The Gitanos are similar to the Pomba Giras of Brazilian Umbanda and Quimbanda, although in Puerto Rico the Pomba Giras are "until recently" virtually unheard of; one thing the Gitanas and the Pomba Gira share in common is the way we invoke them and the way they manifest their fluids and energies within Sesiones and Fiesta Eapirituales. The word Gira means to tour or in the Spanish and Portuguese language, means to tern around, or spin, while the word girar means rotate, revolve, or to go around in circles. But to go deeper, the Pomba Gira and the Gitanas as viewed by Brazilian Umbanda and Puerto Rican Sanse are a Comision or Court of Spirits that seams to have its origin not only in the stereotypical Spanish Gypsies of Spain but also in two Congolese and Bantu deities, which are collectively known as Nikisi. This particular Spirit was known as Pambu Nzila masculine or Bombozira feminine which is a Legba Spirit honored in Palo Monte, Palo Mayombe, Umbanda and Quimbanda and is known as an Elegba path known as Lucero

Mundo in Cuba. These spirits and their names did not survive the Spanish inquisition of Puerto Rico, but their Spanish Gypsi disguise and counter part did, at least within Espiritismo, Sanse and Santerismo. The Gypsies in spirit as they where in life are true bohemians and travelers, they are as free discarnate as they were incarnate. They can be stern and obnoxious, but often happy, and content. One misconception that people who follow Sanse or Espiritismo have is that all the Gypsies are from Spain. Again this is far from the truth, yes many in our Gitanos ancestors do come from Spain and enjoy the traditional Flamenco dance and stereotypical castanets, but others are from Portugal, Hungeria, Egypt, Morocco, Arabia, Russia, Germany, Romania, Yugoslavia and of course the ancient mother land of the Gypsies, India. This commission of Spirits is as large as all the others and like the blatino Slave Spirits that use the term Negro such as Negro Jose, Negra Francisca or Negro Manuel, the Gypsies come down always proudly saying they are Gitanos, and they ofren use the term for Gipsy from their country of origin such as Cigano, Sigany, Zingaro, Gitan, Zigenare, Gipsy or the Spanish Gitano. In the Spanish language Gitano is masculine while Gitana is feminine, and some of the most popular Gitanos in Cuadros are, Renzo, Hugo, Dracos, Yani, Neftali, Pablo, Vlademir, Juan, Pedrovick, Arsenio, Aldovan and Vitor. The Gitanas are usually Salomè, Sarafina, Waleska, Esmeralda, Tatiana, Yethenia, Amaiya, Zaira, Lucerito, Jovanka, Rita, Sashenka, Milenka, Sunakana, Sulamita, Wlavira and Vinka. In Sanse most of these Spirits come down using the name Maria, Juan and Jose, such as Maria Salomè, Jose Renzo or Juan Vladimir, or will use the name of the Loa they represent as a surname.

Tradituonal Servicio to the Female Gitana Spirit

In many Caribbean African and Indigenous Traditions, when a Gitano as is any spirit of ones Cuadro, the Espiritista often blesses a statue or doll and in some cases fill it with powerful ingredients that are believed to attract that particular spirit into the statue or doll I will definitely not go into that here, but what I will be posting is for those who do have a Gitana or Gitano how to do a Servicio and connecting to their energies. This Servicio "for the Gitana" is often performed on the night of Venus, as the moon is full on the witching hour. The items and servicio that follows is one used in Brazilian Umbanda as a way of connecting with the Pomba Gira and I have used it as a Plaza de Muerto or as a servicio to las Gitanas before a Fiesta or as a way tuning into the Spirits faculties and has worked effectively for me. Although I use it within my home with Puntos Firmados with Cascarilla, traditionally it is done outdoors in deserted crossroads, which for safety reasons I would not recommend. "Never be alone unaccompanied at night." EL ALTAR DE TONY SANCISTA Items Needed 

A Spanish Gypsy Doll, or a statue of a Gypsy.

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7 Red Candles 7 Black Candles A bottle of rum. A bottle of anisette liquor or aguardient. 7 Red tea lite Candles 7 Black tea lites Candles 1 Square Red silk Cloth 1 Square Black silk cloth 1 Glass Ashtray 7 Cigarettes 7 Wooden Matches 7 Coins 1 Red or clear glass vase 7 Red Roses 1 Bottle of Rose Water 1 Bottle of Rose Perfume "Maja Brand" Cascarilla Virgin Olive Oil Holy Water 1 bottle of 4711, "Original Eau de Cologne or any Eau de toilette. (everyone seams to be infatuated with Florida Water, but 4711 Eau de Cologne, Kananga Water, Kolonoa 1800 or Locion Pompeya can be used, but we will just say Florida Water, unless you are near a Botanica and care to experiment with the vast colognes and waters we use.) Blessed Salt 1 Deck of Lenormand Cards

Begin by cleansing the area with Holy water, then carefully with the Cascarilla draw a circle and then outlining it with the blessed salt. Place the square piece of Black cloth over the circle, then place the red silk cloth over the black cloth to form an 8 pointed star. Begin buy cleansing the doll or statue with Florida Water, and Rum, this you will do by spraying the rum from your mouth onto the statue or doll and washing it with your hands using the florida water and passing it over the doll. After this you will do

the same with the Anisette Liquor. Then place the doll or statue in the center of the cloth. On the right side place the vase with the red roses while on the left you will place the remainder of the liquors. In front of the doll you will place the glass ashtray with the 7 unlit cigarettes and 7 wooden matches inside the ashtray. Then begin to surround every thing with the tea lights, beginning with one black, (the unknown, death) then one red. (Blood life). Do this all the way around. To each candle drop one little drop of olive oil and light one at a time. Then open your deck of Lenormand Cards and begin to make a circle around the circle of candles with the deck, being very careful not to place the card to close to the flames of the candles. (We traditionally give our Gitanas, Lenormand Cards but a Spanish deck can be used.) Then begin to invoke the Gypsies asking that the Spirit who is part of your cuadro,"if any" will use both the doll / statue and the deck as a spiritual platform for manifestation and communication. The invocation can be one used here or just speak from the heart. Do this until one feels comfortable, making sure that candles are never left unattended. Listen clearly during your invocation and meditation as it is at this moment that La Gitana or Gitano will reveal his name. When the candles are completely consumed begin to gather every thing with the exception of the Doll / Statue, the deck of cards and the red and black cloths. All the rest of the items will be placed within a brown paper bag then passed through the aura of the body. With seven coins leave the bag in a T shaped street and asking the Gitana that makes up your Cuadro to bring you blessings. The Doll / Statue is not your Spirit per say but a vehicle in which your Gitana / o will manifest its energy. It is your Pitosina, and the ritual I have just included is an easier version of the one I posted on the Pitonisa article. The cloth themselves are only used with the Gitana and can be used to cover the deck or use to lay the deck on.

Traditionally Sancistas and Brujos prepare a resguardo with magical items that are placed within the doll or statue, which are believed to attract the Gitanos. The Gypsy in time like most of your spirits within your cuadro will ask for items in which they will use in Misas or Sesiones. Traditionally the Gypsies (female) enjoy rose scented perfumes, Spanish Fans, Castinettes, hair combs, black lace, and Arabian jewelry. The rose perfume such as Agua Fresca de Rosas or rose waters are often used to sprinkle or spray on the statue or doll. They enjoy red, black and rose colored candles, and expensive chocolates, although mine does not mind her occasional Twix or Hurshey bars. The Gitana as are many of the spirits are never placed on the altar with the Loa but placed on the boveda or is seated on a wooden chair with wicker seat. We call these chairs Taburettes. Always keep a Fuente Espiritual with fresh water near her, with rose water and holy water, that is changed every friday. They enjoy menthol cigarettes, champagnes, beer, whisky and gin and semi precious stones, crystal balls, playing cards, tarot decks, silk and satin scarves. They especially enjoy Maja Eau de Toilette Perfume, Azahar Orange Blossom in which they use to bless and Maja talcum powder for their love magic spells. Important note, Gypsy Spirits often get insulted with the term Witch / Bruja or any form of the word and one should never use it when calling them.

LA ESPAÑOLA THE SPANISH DANCER

LA ESPANOLA

A common mistake many individuals have is the difrence between the traditional Flamenco Dress wearing Spanish Señorita and the Gitanas. Although within time the Gypsies of Spain began to wear the traditonal Flamenco clothing worn by the aristocratic Spanish señoritas. Many times we know the difrence between what we call as La Española and la Gitana, although again the Gypies of Spain mastred the art of Flamenco, song and dance and many within time began to wear the traditional Flamenco dress. Traditionally the style of Flamenco the Gypies of Spain sang was known as Canto Jondo, which was a soul full improvised version of Flamenco that had a deep soulful style which differed from the upbeat Fandango and Sevillana style used by the Españoles. Canto Jondo often spoke of the Gypsy experience in Spain, their sufferings, trials prejudices and tribulations they endured.

QUEEN OF THE GYPSIES,

SAINT SARA LA KALI SANTA SARA LA NEGRA

SANTA SARA LA KALI To speak of a race and people, and in order to completely understand them, one always has to look deep into their hearts and understand a bit of their spiritual or religious beliefs. At the forefront of the Gypsies beliefs sits a beautiful saint by the name of Sarah la Kali, or Sara la Negra. Just like the mysterious Roma people who in times past, strikes wonder and often fear in the hearts of those who did not understand them, so did their patron Saint Sarah. As there is much mystery behind the people so to is their a shroud of mystery behind this beautiful Black Madonna and to write about her would take volumes of information and time. Many legends proclaim that she came to France as a maiden of one of the Marys. Other proclaim that she was a powerful Gypsy sorceress similar to England's Morgan la Fey, still others say that she was the mysterious mythical and sacred Holy Grail itself and daughter of Jesus Christ and Mary Magdeline. What is fascinating about this figure is that she has many similarities to

the Hindu Goddess Kali / Durga. One similarity is that the name Kali comes from the word Kala which means black, "Saint Sara is often depicted as being of dark skin" another similarity is that Kali's aura is so blue "at times black" that it is transparent upon her skin, again Saint Sarah la Kali is always depicted as being dressed in blue garments. Now there are many traditions, folklore and mythology surrounding this beautiful saint. One tradition tells the account of how Sara was the child of a Gypsy King "Chief" and as her mother and grandmother before her was well educated in the magical practices of her people. The Gypsy clan being a pagan people, where devotees of the Goddess Astarte, and as was tradition and custom a yearly procession for her was done, going into the shore of the sea. Now on the eve before the procession, lit by the full moons light Sara went to the ocean to make offerings to the Goddess Astarte. Sara since birth had the gift of premonition and dreams, and was unable to sleep that night because she had a dream that travelers from a far off land where coming from the Sea, and that they where connected to a savior who had been crucified by the Romans. On the shores of the moon lit beach Sara made offerings to Astarte so that the Goddess may help her interpret her dream. Just then in the distance she saw a small boat coming to the shore. Within the small boat was Mary Magdeline, Marie Salome, Saint Marta and Lázaro of Betania. But because the moon was full the boat could not male it to shore. Sara went into the water and asked one of the travelers to throw her a cloak so that she may help in pulling them in. Maria Salome then threw her cloak at Sara and with her Gypsy magic was able to calm the sea and bring them to shore. It is believed that through this act Sara helped bring Christianity into her country and became a handmaiden of Mary and the first Gypsy Saint. Saint Sarah's feast day is celebrated on May 24th. She has become a popular Loa or Misterio amongst those who practice Vudu and is known as San Sereni del Monte, Sarai or simply la Negra Sara la Kali. Keeping with ancient Cristian tradition she is said to be the daughter of Gran Solier and Mama Sili Gbo others say Olisa Maisia Moquea.

UNA BENDICION GITANA Que el camino sea suave para tus pies, que el viento sople ligero sobre tus hombros, que el sol brille calido sobre tu rostro, y que la lluvia caída traiga la paz hasta tu campamento. y que Dios siempre te guarde en las palma de sus manos. Es una linda flor que desabrocha en amanecer es un espíritu de luz. Es la luna que aclarea nuestras mentes para que pasemos a dar un consejo en la hora cierta. Es el espíritu que nos de la fuerza para superarnos todos nuestros obstáculos. Es una estrella brillante que ilumina nuestras vidas, y nuestro planeta Tierra. Es un espíritu maravilloso que à noche vigila nuestros sueños, impidiendo la aproximación de espíritus maléficos. Gitana, con tus cintas coloridas, estás siempre transmitiendo la fuerza del arco iris.Siempre que nosotros te invoquemos, puedas transmitirnos la energía da paz, de la armonía y de la consolación. Que, al mirar la llama de una vela, podamos sentir tu presencia. Que, al tocar un cristal, podamos sentir tu energía positiva. Que, al sentir la aroma de violetas, podamos sentir que estás confortando nos. Gitana, cúbrenos con tu saia colorida, escondiéndonos de los engañosos y mostrando a ellos que el camino no es ese. Gitana encantada, que en esta hora podamos sentir seguridad, paz y felicidad. Con tu encanto, encanta cosas buenas para que nuestros caminos no tengan obstáculos.Desencanta todas las perturbaciones que existan. Gitana, cura aquellos que estén enfermos del espíritu, del alma, de la materia, Como el poder del Gran Solier igual Como el poder de la Madre Tierra. Oración de la Gitana Salve Sol, la Naturaleza, el ocaso de mañana! Salves Bondye Todo Poderoso, que me das felicidad de tomar la Bendicción de toda la Naturaleza. Salve al Viento, al Sol, a la Lluvia, a las

Nubes, a las Estrellas e a la Luna ! ¡ Salves a todas las fuerzas de las Aguas, a la Tierra, el Aire y el Suelo fértil ! ¡ Que bello sea su remedio ! ¡ El Pan que parto en la mesa, sea multiplicado ! El trigo que cargo conmigo, sea mi propriedad. El Universo me abrace. Y que los quatro elementos: Tierra, Agua, Fuego y Aire, me den las fuerzas necesarias para todas las dificultades de mi vida. Mis caminos sean abiertos, hoy y siempre, con toda la pureza de los Elementales y de los Angeles Mensajeros de Dios. Es una linda flor que desabrocha en amanecer, es un espíritu de luz abrocha en amanecer es un espíritu de luz Es la luna que aclarea nuestras mentes para que pasemos a dar un consejo en la hora cierta. Es el espíritu que nos de la fuerza para superarnos todos nuestros obstáculos. Es la estrella brillante que ilumina nuestras vidas nuestro planeta Tierra. Es un espíritu maravilloso que à noche vigila nuestros sueños, impidiendo la aproximación de espíritus maléficos Gitana, con tus cintas coloridas, estás siempre transmitiendo la fuerza del arco-iris.Siempre que nosotros te invoquemos, puedas transmitirnos la energía de paz, de la armonía y de la consolación. Que, al mirar la llama de una vela, podamos sentir tu presencia. Que, al tocar un cristal, podamos sentir tu energía positiva. Que, al sentir la aroma de violetas, podamos sentir que estás confortando nos. Gitana, cúbrenos con tu saia colorida, escondiéndonos de los engañosos y mostrando a ellos que el camino no es ese. Gitana encantada, que en esta hora podamos sentir seguridad, paz y felicidad. Con tu encanto, encanta cosas buenas para que nuestros caminos no tengan obstáculos.Desencanta todas las perturbaciones que existan Gitana, cura aquellos que estén enfermos del espíritu, del alma, de la materia, Como el poder del Pai-Sol Como el poder de la Mãe- Tierra

ORACIÓN A SANTA SARA Salve mi Santa Sara, madre de todos los Gitanos de este mundo

y de otros. Yo rezo invocando tu poder, mi Poderosa Santa Sara Kali, para que prepares mi corazón y retires toda la angustia que está en mi. Santa Sara abre mis caminos por la Fe que yo te tengo. Tu que venciste el mal, todas las tempestades y caminaste junto al Maestro. Madre de todos los misterios Gitanos, que da fuerzas a este pueblo a través del don de la magia, me haga fuerte ahora, Amorosa Sara, domina todos los leones que insisten en devorar me. Santa Sara aleja de mi todas las almas perversas para que ellas no puedan ver. Ilumíname para que la felicidad llegue. Tráeme fuerzas como la del pueblo gitano, Madre, Señora y Reinas de las fiestas Gitanas. Suenan los violines, caen las monedas, bailan las Gitanas alrededor de la foguera, se siente el perfume de las Gitanas, las manos golpeando.alabando el pueblo de Santa Sara Kali!

ORACIÓN DEL GRAN REY GITANO

REY GITAO DE TONY SANCISTA MI AHIJADO

O! Poderoso Gran Rey Gitano, que en esta hora yo vengo a saludar. Saludo en ti la fuerza de las estrellas, saludo las ondas del mar, saludo todas las tribus gitanas. Pido permiso a este pueblo para poder trabajar. Saludo las montañas, los valles, las gotas de rocío, la arena. Tu pueblo baila feliz invocando la vida y la belleza. En sus músicas está la gracia de la danza, libre para soñar. Tus tesoros son infinitos. Ningún precio puede pagar el valor de la libertad de los pies descalzos caminando. Tus joyas tienen el brillo del oro mas caro. Tus gitanos ponen las manos en el pecho para el corazón calentar. Tus mujeres exhalan perfumes frescos con sus abanicos para alejar los espíritus negativos. Tus fogueras poseen las salamandras mas altas que en los ojos

de tu pueblo pueden brillar. Gran Rey que esta oración no tenga fin, porque cuando un gitano reza mirando para el cielo. Dios se pone a cantar. Amén.

ORACIÓN PODEROSA A SANTA SARA Santa Sara: por la fuerza del agua, Santa Sara: con Tus misterios, que estés siempre a mi lado, por la fuerza de la naturaleza, nosotros que somos hijos del viento, de las estrellas, de la luna, Te pedimos, Amada Señora que permanezcas a nuestro lado, por la estrella de cinco puntas, por los cristales que brillan siempre en nuestra vida: que nuestros enemigos no nos vean, así como nada se ve en una noche oscura sin estrellas ni luna. Si nuestra casa es el descanso al final del día, que Santa Sara la ilumine, para que todos los que golpean la puerta reciban siempre una palabra de amor y alegría. Santa Sara que yo nunca sea alguien ingrato, que perdone a todos y sea siempre humilde. Amén.

INVOCACIÓN A LA MAESTRA SARA Sarah, Tu que eres la Madre de los gitanos del mundo entero. Tu que sufriste todas las formas de humillaciones y preconceptos. Tu que fuiste amenazada y tirada al mar para que murieses de sed y de hambre. Tu que sabes lo es el miedo, el hambre, el sufrimiento, y el dolor del corazón. No permitas que mis enemigos también me maltraten. Se mi abogada frente a Dios y dadme suerte, salud y bendice mi vida. Amén.

INVOCACIÓN A SARA

Amada Maestra Ascendida Sara que iluminas mi camino! Abraza con tu manto protector toda mi vida! Abre mis caminos! Tráeme la armonía en el amor y la paz con el dinero. Líbrame de todos los cortes y de las separaciones sufridas! Aléjame de todas las pérdidas. Dame suerte! Dame el amor! Dame suerte! Dame el dinero que preciso! Haz de mi vida un himno de alegría! A tus pies me coloco, bendita Sarah. Mi Madre, Mi Maestra, Mi Luz Gitana! Te ofrezco mi vida para que la transformes en un lindo lirio perfumando de paz toda mi casa. Salve, mi Madre Gitana! Salve Gran Reina del Amor! Salve, Poderosa Sara! Que bendices mi amor y mi hogar. Amen.

ORACIÓN A SARA PARA LA PROTECCIÓN DE LOS HIJOS Mi Amada Maestra sara tu, que como madre del pueblo gitano, sabes lo que es el desespero de ver un hijo sufriendo,protege el (los) mío (míos) de todas las calamidades. Que el camino de ellos sea siempre de Luz, Prosperidad, Alegría, Felicidad. Y que cada uno de ellos consiga perpetuar su vida con una familia numerosa y feliz. Salve sara, Madre y Maestra!

The Commission of the Gypsies

When I was in my late teens, I had attended a Velada /Fiesta Espiritual in Dorchester Massachusetts, conducted by a well known and respected Espiritista. (see my blog post titled LA VELADA DE LA MESA BLANCA) During that fiesta espiritual an Espiritista brought down a Gypsi spirit, by the name of Jethenya. In gypsi fashion, the spirit danced in circles, stomping her feet to the music played by a radio cassette player and greeted the people, all the while cleansing them with her pańos and giving them messages from the spirits. Then she.came to me and halted her dance abruptly and gazed into my eyes. I immediately averted her profound gaze, that seemed to strip away the layers of my very soul. Then she placed her hands on my shoulders, as a feeling of electric spiritual currents went through my body, Jethenya noticed my unease and began to comfort my growing unease and softly said to me. "Olé, hermano mio! Que Olé! Yo Vengo hacer Caridad, I have come to perform Charity, You have the cuadro de los Gitanos, you have the frame of the gypsies with you,Alavado sea el Señor! It is part of your ancestry, as I see Gypsy blood flows through your veins. I will be by your side always hermano mio, and in the coming years I will give you three pruebas as the three nails that pierced our Lords flesh. These pruebas will test your worthiness and faith." For many years afterwards I became obsessed with everything Gypsy, the lore, legends, music and culture. Mainly the Spanish Gitanos, and Flamenco music and dance of Andalucia and

Sevilla Spain. I purchased every Gipsy Kings, Carmen Amaiya, (Queen of the Gipsies) and Sabicas cd I Could get my hands on. Later on that year a Spanish soap opera was televised titled, Yesenia, about a Gypsi. Could this be a sign, I remember wondering. Soon afterwards my first child was born, and I named her Yesenia after the Gypsi that came to me during that Fiesta Espiritual. (I also in the years to come did face the three pruebas, the last one to be the strongest and almost completely destroying and breaking my faith. But with the Grace of God, I passed them and came through.

Legends of the Gypsies

A gypsi by the name of Renzo was approached by a Roman Centurion and ordered to forge twelve large nails, three of them were to be sharper then the others. This being Renzo's art and having no reason in questioning the Roman Centurion, proceeded with his labor. As Renzo was forging the twelve nails, outside his hut he overheard the Roman Centurion laughing as he told a soldier that the nails were to be used to fix Christ and the robbers to their crosses. One for each hand, one to nail the feet to the cross and the fourth, the sharpest to be plunged into the sides of the victims to cause them more torture.

Stricken with great remorse and guilt for being responsible for the commission of an act of great offense. Renzo handed his son the three sharpest nails, and ordered him to run to a secluded area in the hills and bury the nails. The son ran to the Mount of Olives and buried them deep into the earth. When the Centurion came to collect the 12 nails, Renzo begged mercy for he only had time to forge nine nails of the twelve and did not have time to forge the three sharpest nails. Infuriated the Centurion took the nails and did not pay Renzo. The Romans where forced to make do with what they had in securing Christ and the other two victims with the nine nails. With the forth one being absent this would save the three victims of further torture and pain. Renzo knelt and prayed God for mercy, and sent his son to the Mount of Calvary, there he was to kneel at the foot of the cross of Christ and beg mercy. The son being an obedient son did as he was told. At the foot of the cross, Renzo's son was the first to make the sign of the cross, Jesus at this moment blessed him and his kinfolk, and excused them of committing the sin of thievery and lies. When Jesus died, the rumours spread that it had been a gypsi who had forged the nails, this created an angry mod. They went into the gypsi camp and drove Renzo and his kinfolk out of their land. Till recently gypsies became known as the wondering race, doomed to be unable to settle in a land until the three missing nails are found thus finally ending their wandering existence.

There are many variations of the legend from gypsi clan to clan. In one version a Gypsi woman, hand-maiden of one of the Three Marys by the name of Sara Kali, or Kalimah; stole a bag of nails from the Roman soldiers in the hopes of lessening the pain of the victims. Thus becoming the Patron Saint of the Gypsies. While in another tail it is a couple of young gyspie children who steel one of the bags of nails. Most of my offerings to my gypsies are stolen flowers, or nails I find on a road or railroad track, or constructor sight. I never go into a store and steel flowers, I take them from public gardens, but always leaving a derecho of coins as a sign of respect. " FLORES PA TU ALTAR, ANQUE ME LAS TENGA QUE ROBAR!"

PRAYER OF THE THREE NAILS.

Me persigno con los tres clavos y me abrazo de la cruz, Cruz Santa, Cruz Digna, Cruz Divina. Yo te alabo y te bendigo por el Señor que murió en ti. no dejes llegar cosas malas junto de mi. Que la Cruz y la Corona vayan siempre delante de mi, y muevan los corazones que estén en contra de mi. Cristo vive, Cristo reina, Cristo de todos mis enemigos me defienda. El Padre me libre, el Hijo me guarde y el Espíritu Santo por nosotros hable. Ave María Purísima, sin pecado concebida. Alabado sea el Santísimo Sacramento del Altar I CROSS MYSELF WITH THREE NAILS AND EMBRACE THE CROSS. + HOLY CROSS + DIGNIFIED CROSS + DIVINE CROSS. I PRAISE THE LORD WHO DIED FOR MY SINS. KEEP EVIL AND WICKEDNESS AWAY FROM MY PATH. MAY THE HOLY CROSS AND SACRED CROWN BE BEFORE ME, AND PACIFY THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO ARE AGAINST ME. CHRIST LIVES. CHRIST REIGNS. CHRIST DEFEND ME FROM ALL HARM. MAY THE FATHER LIBERATE ME. MAY THE SON GUARD ME. MAY THE HOLY SPIRIT ON MY BEHALF INTERCEDE. HAIL MARY FULL OF GRACE. YOU WHO HAVE CONCEIVED WITHOUT ORIGINAL SIN. PRAISE BE THE HOLY SACRAMENT.

AMEN.

SPELL OF THE THREE NAILS FOR PROTECTION. ITEMS NEEDED

          

Blue Candle Olive Oil 1 Loadstone Loadstone food Three Nails. A white cloth bag Blue string Incense charcoal Incense, sandalwood Three stick matches. Holy Water

On your altar take the candle and oil the base with a drop of olive oil. Light the candle with the 3 matches. Then with the lit candle light the incense charcoal and place it on a safe base. Sprinkle the coal with the incense. Let it smoke. Take the white bag and pass it carefully above the fire of the candle and the smoke of the incense and then cross yourself with it. Place the bag in front of you. Take the three nails and add oil to each nail, and sprinkle with holy water, then place in bag. Do the same with the loadstone and place in bag, then sprinkle into the bag loadstone food. Then tie the bag shut with the blue string, making three tight knots, And pass through the flame and smoke, and anoint it with oil and holy water. Make the sign of the cross and carry with you for protection or keep in your car for safe travel, or hung behind the door to your home.

TRES CLAVOS DE LA CRUZ.

Los tres clavos y la cruz vayan delante de Jesucristo. Respondan y hablen por mi, y ablanden los corazones de los que sufren en contra mía. AMEN.

MAY THE THREE NAILS OF CHRIST GO BEFORE ME, BEHIND ME, AND ALL AROUND ME. MAY YOU PACIFY THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO WILL ME ILL. AMEN

THE ORIGINAL QUEEN OF THE GYPSIES. SANTA SARA KALI

Opacha! Opacha! Mi Sagrada Santa. Señora Sara Kali. Madre y Reina de todas las tribus gitanas de esta Tierra o de allá del túmulo. Madre de todos los gitanos y protectora de los carruajes gitanos. Rezo evocando tu poder, mi poderosa Sta. Sara Kali, para que ablandes mi corazón y saques las angustias que se depositaran a mis pies. Santa Sara ayúdeme. Abra mis caminos para la fe en tu poder milagrosos. Venciste el mal, todas las tempestades y caminaste por las carreteras que Jesús Cristo camino. Madre de los misterios gitanos que da fuerza a todos los gitanos en el don de la magia, fortaléceme ahora, siendo yo

gitano o no gitano, bondadosa Santa Sara, ablande los leones que rugen para devorarme. Santa Sara, ahuyenta las almas perversas para que no me puedan ver. Ilumina mi tristeza para la felicidad llegar, Reina. Atravesaste las aguas de los ríos y del mar por encima de ellas y no hundiste yo evoco tu poder para que yo no me hunda en el océano de la vida. Santa Sara, soy pecador, triste, sufrido y amargado. Tráeme fuerza y coraje, como las del Pueblo gitano tus protegidos, Madre, Señora y Reina de las fiestas gitanas. Nada se puede hacer en una Tienda Gitana sin primero evocar tu nombre, y yo evoco por mi pedido Santa Sara Kali. Tocan los violines, caen las monedas, danzan las gitanas descalzas en vuelta de la hoguera, viene el olor fuerte de los perfumes gitanos, las palmas batiendo, lavando al Pueblo de Santa Sara Kali. Que el Pueblo gitano me traiga riquezas, paz, amor y victorias. Ahora y siempre loare tu nombre Santa Sara Kali y todo el Pueblo gitano. Opacha, opacha, Olé con Olé Madre Santa Sara Kali.

My Sacred Saint our Lady Sara Kali. Mother and Queen of all the Gypsy tribes of this earth. You who protect the caravans of your people. I invvoke your sublime powers my powerful Santa Sara Kali, to soften my heart and remove the anguish at my feet. Santa Sara help me. Open my road and clear the path. Conquer evil, and the storms in my life, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Gypsy Mother of the Mysteries that were bestowed on the Roma. Giver of music and dance, You that aid in the sight, and the gifts of the mysteries of magic, Bestow upon me the strength to conquer the roaring lion that wishes to devour me. Holy Saint Sara Kali, DISPEL the evil souls that may surround me. Holy Queen, may the waters of the rivers and the sea not drown me. I humbly evoke your powers, may I not sink into the depths of the sea. Bring before me courage and strength, such as that of your people the Roma. Perfume my life with rose oils, and give to me the love for the joy of dance and music. May the Roma Gypsi spirits bless me with, wealth, peace, love and victory. Now and forever I will praise your name, Hail Santa Sara Kali and all the Roma

people. Opocha, Opocha, OLÉ. HAIL BLESSED SAINT SARA KALI.

LA GITANA MARIA CANDELARIA

PRAYER TO THE GYPSI MARIA CANDELARIA

My Gypsi. Merciful Spirit. Kind and just soul. I a firm believer of your charitable mysteries, your power, and your merciful ways invoke you here and at this moment. Oh my Gypsi Maria Candelaria. For the blessings bestowed upon you by God, great wandering spirit, free me of all illnesses. Always forgiving, and by the blessed hand of God, I ask you that as our Lord forgave you of any mortal sin, I ask that you intercede on my behalf so that I may be forgiven of mines. And for the salvation given unto you by the Son of the Omnipotent God. Oh My Gypsi Maria Candelaria I ask you to to hear my pleas. Embrace me with your goodness oh prodigious soul and bestow upon me, Light and Progress. You that have been blessed and covered in a bed of flowers. With the prodigy of your Tarot cards, free me of my restlessness, free me of my concerns, free me of my lamentations. Oh, My Gypsi, Maria Candelaria, great spirit of the Commission of Gypsies. I ask of your blessings. Bless me with your powerful magic. I ask you in the name of God, to radiate my body with your blessed fluids, so that I may vanquish from my life all evil thoughts that I myself think, or those that enemies may plot. Amen.

PRAYER TO DON DIEGO EL DUENDE Don Diego el Duende is an earth Spirit, brought to South America and the Caribbean with the migration of Gypsies. Don Diego el Duente is a troll like goblin earth spirit, that is a like a muse to the Gypsies. When ever you see a Flamenco dance fiercely or a Spanish Guitarist play amazingly that the hairs on the back of your neck stand, it is because he is present. Spanish gypsies sing a form of music called. Canto Hondo, deep singing, similar to the Southern blues. They sing in a mournful toan of their suffering and persecution. This style of music is never written nor composed, it is improvised, and it is then when the Gypsies say they sing with el Duende, or dance with el Duende or play music with el Duende. To be possessed by this earth elemental muse like spirit.

Powerful and Sage friend. Prince and King amongst Kings. Protector of Men and Gypsies. Free me of the evil intentions my enemies may wish upon me. Eyes they have, but shall not see me. Mouths they have, but shall not speak against me. Ears they have, but they can not hear me. Hands they have but can not touch me. Legs they have, but will not follow me. Intentions they may have, but will not come to pass. Oh Don Diego el Duende, with the power bestowed upon you by God.. Amen.

Oración a la Gitana María Candelaria

Gitana Mía, Espíritu clemente; Alma bondadosa, Yo, fiel creyente de tus misterios, de tu poder y de tu misericordia, Te invoco en este momento. Oh! Gitana María Candelaria Por la bendición que te ha dado Dios, Que fuiste errante, libre de toda enfermedad. Perdonada siempre por la Mano de Dios, Te pido que así como fuisteis liberada de tus culpas, me ayudes a redimir las mías, Por la Salvación que disteis al corazón del hijo del omnipotente. Oh! Gitana María Candelaria, Te pido escuches mis ruegos Llévame a tu bondad, alma prodigiosa, dadme luz y progreso. Tú que has sido bendecida Cobijada entre las flores Con el prodigio de tus cartas líbrame de inquietudes, líbrame de los lamentos. Oh! Gitana María Candelaria, Espiritu de la Comision de los Gitanos, Pido tu bendición, Bendíceme con tu magia poderosa, te pido en el nombre de Dios irradies mi cuerpo con tus santos fluidos para alejar de mi los malos pensamientosque quieran enviarme mis enemigos. Amén

Oracion a Don Diego el Duende

Amigo sabio y poderoso, príncipe de príncipes, rey de reyes, amparador de los hombres y gitanos, líbrame de las malas ocasiones que persiguen mis enemigos. Bienvenidas sean las cosas en tu nombre y poder, ojos tengan y no me miren, manos tengan y no me toquen, pies tengan y no me alcancen, armas tengan y no. den fuego. Cobardes difamadores aquí estoy y voy con el Duende, que el valor se les desmaye y los pelos se les ericen, que todos sean llenos de terror y miedo. Que bienvenidas sean a mí las cosas, como yo las deseo, Señor de la Naturaleza. Don Diego Duende, ya es tiempo que venzasmis enemigos. En el nombre de Dios. Amen.

The Spirits in a Fiesta Espiritual

Francisco Manuel Oller Cestero - El Velorio 1893

The Madama

As I have stated before las Madamas are old and wise spirits, born and raised and lived within a time when slavery was a part of the Americas, a time when African slaves where baptized and forced to leave their ancient African religions, traditions, loved ones and spiritual beliefs behind or suffer the severe consequences. The Madamas recognized the wisdom, beauty and magical attributes associated with the Catholic Saints and where one of the forerunners who saw the similarities of their African deities with those of the Catholic Saints and began synchronizing the spirits of their ancestors with the Saints. Imagine for a moment being the Mammy or a house servant of the masters children, and his wife's most trusted confidant. Imagine keeping the children quiet as the bible was read, evening prayers were recited and the miracles of the Saints where told as the mistress of the house lit candles to the various Saints and the Holy Virgin. For a moment also imagine going back to the slave quarters with the wisdom and knowledge you

had acquired, and how similar these Saints where to the Orisha and Lwa of the African Ancestors. The Masters surely did not know that forcing and introducing these Saints to the slaves insured the survival of the African Spirits. When the Madamas come down in Fiestas Espirituales they come down as stern wise women. Often scolding and reprimanding those who do or are in the wrong, they are over opinionated, witty and quick with their tongue. They represent a strong matriarch figure who is stern and strong willed. When they are happy they love to laugh which is a deep hoarse laughter, and quickly ask those attending the Fiesta for her offering of cigars, black coffee sweetened with brown sugar or molasses. The Madamas can be either Brujas, Yerberas, Curanderas, or Priestesses. When they want to cleanse and purify the crowd they ask for a bottle of Florida water and their paño cloth, which can be a solid color or a madras plaid pattern and the colors all depend in what Spirit the Madama venerated or was a priestess of in life. The Madama come down to lift Causas, they cleanse and purify, and recommend spiritual baths for good luck, and if a deck of Spanish cards are present they will give a quick consultation. They love to dance and speak with a strong facial expression and hand movements, and always have their hands on their waists, or crossed over their chest. They always cover their heads with a head dress and wear around their necks beaded and wooden Rosary beads.

The Gypsies

When Maria Candelaria or any of the Gypsies come down in a Fiesta Espiritual they are the life of the festivities, always lively they come dancing and twirling as if dancing to Flamenco music. The females Gypsies come asking for a Spanosh fan or castanets as they dance and twirl in circles. They love layered dresses with lace and a head dress. Their favorite colors are red, black and pink, or patterns that have white dots and the paño cloths they use are always in those colors or patterns. As they consult they are offered beer, pink wine or champagne that is always served in a glass chalice and a lit non menthol cigarette. They enjoy bottles filled with Rose or Lavender water mixed with perfumes, which they use to cleanse all who are present. They are often flirtatious and coquettish and love to laugh and enjoy the Fiesta. They also love to consult especially if a Spanish deck of cards or Tarot deck is present and they mostly prophesies on matters that have to do with luck, love and financial matters.

The Indios

The Indios are very spiritual and polytheists spirits that come bearing the wisdom, beliefs and knowledge from their various clans and tribes. When an Indio mounts a person in a Fiesta Espiritual they are offered a sweet pungent bark root juice popular in the Caribbean known as maubi or mavi and tobacco smoke. They often come to lift curses, remove a hex, and in matters of justice. They cleanse with shrubs of healing plants which they soak in water. They also use gourd maraca or by hitting two sticks around the aura of an individual as they blow smoke on the person or spraying mists of intoxicant liquor on the person from their mouths. The person who becomes possessed by these spirits are dressed in dark greens, reds, yellow and brown, and some Indios use the paños of the same colors when lifting a causa. The Indios although they do come down to indoor fiesta espirituales, most would rather come down outdoors and in open air, usually they prefer steams, lakes or wooded areas. Most of the Indios that come down where either Shamans or Warriors and come to heal and remove black magic and combat demons and earthbound spirits.

The Congos and Los Negros Cimarrones

Of all the Spirits that may come down during a fiesta espiritual these are the strongest, most respected and often most feared and misunderstood. In life they where great Paleros, Brujos, Houngans, runaway slaves and liberators. They are very stern, serious and usually have little sense of humor and even less patience. They are this way because they come to lift curses, black magic and heal illnesses caused by the dark arts. When the Negro Cimarròn or el Congo come down to a fiesta they come to cleanse, lift negative magic and remove spiritual blockages. They do so with tobacco, rum, and aguardienteIndios are placed away from other Spirits.

ELEGBA / PAPA LEGBA / ELEGGUA / LEBA / ELEGBARA "I am the staff of his power in his youth, And he is the rod of my old age. And whatever he wills happens to me."

Legba the Misterio of the Crossroads, is a Loa that can be as noble as he can be chaotic, he can represent order and disorder, he can be creative as he is destructive. Legba is the Divine Trickster of the roads, and the greatest symbol of transformation. He is the young disobedient child but at the same time the wise old sage, he embodies change in every corner, in every stage, in every step one takes. One moment one can be strong and healthy as an Ox, and the next moment one can be as fragile as a butterfly. In one corner one can be full of vibrant life, while in the next corner one can be as cold as a corpse. Papa Legba represents the pathways one chooses, to be as divine as God so intends us to be "our creative nature", but at the same time he embodies human failings,"our destructive

nature." Legba is not one, but many and they are always present, always vigilant, always ready to unleash new forms of corruption and destruction as he is ready to bring blessings, abundance and opportunities. He is one of the eldest of the Divine Spirits but within him lies the vitality and youth that would portray him as one of the youngest. He is the master linguist, the great messenger, the one who holds the keys to the realm of the Divine, the realm of the living and the realm of the dead. Legba is also very wise and often resides in every realm, often on the side or on the outskirts, unnoticed but always watching, vigilant and always ready to act. Legba is the guardian of the crossroads but also the guardian of pathways, of entrances and exits, and it is within these points that he has the power over destiny which he is second in ranks under the Divine Spirit of Destiny, Fa. But unlike Fa who stands high above in a remote area often unreachable, Legba is close to the ground, below a person's head and torso, symbolizing his closeness and ever presence in our world. Legba as the Ghede can be malicious, and often ignores social restrictions and his deceitful, often malicious trickster ways knows no boundaries, this goes for the living, the dead, the divine and the demonic alike. But Legba is a Misterio which no one can fully comprehend, and often his acts of trechery and deceitfulness, which at the time seams unjustified to the humans he deals his cards to is the way Legba helps those who need it, in order for them to reconcile and find a solution which in turn will restore balance in the individuals life. Like the Gede, Elegba's appetite is colossal, and like the Ogun, his job is never done, for he like Ogun, knows no rest. It is because of Legba's often malicious, playful and trickster ways, Buen Dios el Todopoderoso "God" and unlike other Division of Spirits that are governed by a head Spirit, Legba does not have his own Kingdom and does not govern any, but he is an essential part of every Division, because without first agknowleding his presence, he will refuse to open the gateways

to other Loases. But as I have stated Legba are many, they are like every Division, a Legion; and in Sanse and 21 Division they are known collectively as Lebanes, Lecuas or Leguas. Papa Buen Dios knows that to have a Division of Legba apart from other Divisions would be a group of Masters of Chaos and disorder. For this reason each Legba although they work under other Divisions, are never viewed as less than or insignificant than the leader of that particular Division, for to see it that way is to insult Legba, insuring that he does not open the doors of opportunities and blessing and in turn bringing chaos into an individuals life. Elegba "Legba" is here and there, in one place at a time, but still in many, and their is no Kingdom or Division of Spirits where Elegba is not present. He is in every house, in every door, in every pathway, in every corner, and it is there where Elegba learns everything that happens. He thus becomes the emissary of God, his spokesman, intermediary between the living and the dead, between Men and Spirit, between the Divine and Holy, and the demonic. Although there are always questions about his moral judgment and his sense of responsibility. He is always unpredictable and uncontrollable, and for this reason like all Loa he is a Mystery. In Africa as is with Cuba Elegba "Eleggua / Niño de Atocha" is viewed as a young, phallic spirit with an unseasonal appetite for sexual energy, but in Haiti he is viewed as Papa Legba, "Saint Lazarus" the ancient white beared sage of experience and wisdom. In Santo Domingo and Puerto Rico he is Saint Anthony of Padua "Leggua" holding baby Jesus, both young and old but of the same Nacion, while San Lazarus is Papa Viejo or Legba Carifu, the elder spirit who has crossed many roads in his life and is always ready for the next road and stage of his life. In all traditions, Umbanda, Candomble, Santeria, Sanse, and all in between, he is invoked and prayed to first before any other Misterio, before any Division, so that the living ensure that he is pleased and will allow the gateways to be opened. Even in Espiritismo Criollo one knocks on the wooden table three times

to San Hilarion ensuring his blessings, before any candle is lit or bell rung.

Although many traditions synchronize him with el Niño de Atocha, and Saint Anthony of Padua, "each Legua has his vuelta.". Many synchronize Papa Legba with that of San Lazarus, while the younger Spirits within this Division enjoy to dance and play pranks, the elders of this Division are sareen and walk with a limp, in which they support their balance by a cane, crutches or walking sticks. While the younger Legbas dress in fine satins and silk adorned with cowrie shells, the elder Legbas dress in tattered heavily used sack cloths which demonstrates their on going mission, age and hard work. While the younger Legba enjoy, sweets, toys, whistles, coins, noise makers, sweetened coffee with milk & honey or molasses and pastries, the elder Legba enjoy rum, aguardiente, tobacco, unsweetened espresso coffee and salty meats. Both take their offerings close to the ground or on the floor in a corner of a wall which symbolizes that this Division of Spirits, like the Gede are closest to our realm of existence. The younger Legbas dress in red and black demonstrating their closeness to life and death while the elder Legua dress in brown demonstrating their age and wisdom. While the younger Leguas enjoy being within the mists of

crowds, the elder are hermits and enjoy their solitude. Legba's liquid offerings are always served in cups made of hollowed out coconut shells, small gourds, tin or white enamelware cups, and his food offerings are placed within Jigueras, weaved baskets or terra cotta plates which is always accompanied with lighted red, black, white or brown candles. Also Legua are tricksters and one never assumes that what is being offered is acceptable and for this reason one communicates with him directly through his oracles, to make sure he excepts or even wants what is being offered, or if he requires more. Legba is known as the Jefe of all the Saints, Loa, and Misterio, and a bit of an offering to one must also be given to him first. In Santeria and Sanse, ceremonies Papa Legba "Eleggua" is the first to be saluted and one thing that most traditions share a common knowledge of is that saluting, offering and praising Elegba first before any Misterio is essential in the insurance of a successful working, dealing or interaction with other Loa. Without a salutation to the Legua that makes a part of your cuadro, it would be almost impossible to have contact with other Loa; since he is the one who opens the doors, mapping the direction and passes along the paths, the one who knows all languages.

"Papa Legba, abre la puerta para mí, Papa Legba, abre la puerta para mí Abre la puerta para mí, Papa, ¡Para yo pasar, cuando vuelva yo le agradeceré al Lwa! Abra la verja para el Lwa, abra la verja Papa Legba. Abra la verja para el Lwa, abra la verja, Papa Legba que hemos llegado, que esperaré por ellos aquí. Papa Legba, open the door for me, Papa Legba, open the door for me, Papa Legba, I go to when I again thank the Lwa! Open the gate to the Lwa, open the gate, open the gate for the Lwa for me Papa Legba, open the gate, Papa Legba and I will wait for then here.

Legba is symbolized by the central pole used to invoke the other Loa within the temples. He is the foundation on which rests the world of both the dead and the Mysteries. His staff, cane or pole symbolizes the phalic symbol in which life all though unseen at first comes through. He simply is the foundation on which rests the Spirit world, and he is the central axis of every punto firmado, every veve and every sigil written with cascarilla, salt or powdered corn meal "no matter how simple or complex" in which all Misterio manifest. Although Elegba is a trickster Lwa he is also the master of humbleness and humility. Humility is a way to see the virtues of those around you and in truly understanding their attitude in any given situation. When a person is humble, they are open to the views and opinions of others. Only with humility and humbleness can humans communicate and share ideas, and it is in these great virtues where Papa Legba manifests. As Legba is humble and a trickster at the same time, he also

demonstrates that amongst the humble is where he is present bestowing his blessings, while amongst the corrupt, he is present waiting for the moment to strike his mighty blow. Although he is present in all ceremonies, it is within the most modest of gatherings that one sees the side of Papa Legba few rarely witness. As the master linguist and messenger of the Misrerios, Loases, Orisha and other Divisions of spirits, it is imperative that those that follow these traditions know the name of the Camino or Vuelta of Legua that makes up their Cuadro. For this reason the Guerillero ceremony in Ocha and the Punto de los Encrucijadas in Sanse is of vital importance within these traditions, and the vuelta or camino of these Spirits can only be deciphered by those highly trained initiates of these traditions. Papa Legba is an old man, of a thin and lithesome body, and is viewed as a dark skinned man or a well suntanned individual, because he's always in the open sunlight the roads and covers up in the coolness of night. Like the Santeria Orisha Babalu Aye, Papa Legba is often seen accompanied by dogs. In Sanse the healing aspect of Babalu Aye is synchronized with Saint Roque and is known as the Lwa Papa Sobo. Although Saint Lazarus is also seen as Legba Carifou the Legba who can bring illnesses at the crossroads and passages of life. He is feared, greatly respected, always venerated and loved especially since he demonstrates kindness and opens the pathways for great opportunities. If Legba was the demons within Pandora's box he would be every single one, especially that one known as Hope. Every day belongs to Legba but he is traditionally venerated on Mondays. In his Rada personage he favors the colors red and white, while in his Petro personage red and black are his colors. In Dominican 21 Division and the Puerto Rican Sanse tradition, brown is also added to his colors. His sacred symbols are skeleton keys, crosses, canes and crutches, and each of his vuelta within Sanse, Vodou and 21 Division he is synchronized with a Catholic Saint such Nino de Atocha, San Antonio de Padua, San Pedro and San Lazaro while in Cuban Espirirismo

Cruzado and Puerto Rican Espirirismo de la Mesa Blanca he is synchronized with San Hilarion, who is known as Lecua or Legua in Sanse. Every Afro Carribean and Afro South American country has a Papa Legba, and he is known as Exu, Eshu, Leba, Elegbara, Eleggua, Eleda, Eleguasito, Eù, and Lubaniba, to name a few. Papa Legba enjoys his tobacco, his cigar smoke can not be replaced, "if your health conscious, then Papa Legba is not a Loa you want to work with.". Papa Legba loves to cover his head with a Pava "straw hat, and while most of his offerings are placed on the ground he often will except a sack cloth bag filled with his offerings which is hung on a branch of a.Ceiba tree near or on a crossroads. He has a faithful wife who is also a Lwa and her name is Adjessi. Adjessi is the feminine aspect of Papa Legba and is known in some traditions as Pomba Gira. Adjessi in Haitian Vodou is known as Gran Ayizan Velekete who is the wife of Loco. Papa Loco as he is also known in a vuelta of Papa Legba who is synchrenized with San Joaquin and is the Lwa who leads spirits of the dead into the head. Adjessi / Ayizan is also known as La Señorita Klemezin Klemey or Metresa Clarabel and is synchronized with Saint Claire. In Legba's darkest Petro aspects he is Karifu, or Eshu, and some synchronize this Loa with the Angel of the Morning Star, the Light Bringer or the Loa who has the keys to the realms of hell. In this vuelta he is also known as Legba Manose ( Legba Nan Petro ) who is synchronized with the Catholic Saint, San Cayetano. As I have stated Papa Legba is always saluted with rum, water and tobacco smoke, and he is the Loa that speaks directly to us through divination tools such as the coconut, sea shells, bones, tobacco, dice, playing cards and the Tarot. ( In the Tarot he is el Loco, the Jester or the Fool card.) His attention is gotten by the wrapping of the altar with the knuckles, the ringing of the campana, or the rattling of the Maraca, Tcha tcha, Asson, or Chekere. Each tradition and Division of Spirits has its traditional instrument used for getting his attention and gestures.

SERVICIOS Papa Legba enjoys many servicios and each vuelta has his preference, and is always determined by the casting of coconut or sea shells. He enjoys to drink water, hard liquor, coffee, and cola soft drinks, and he enjoys to feast on corn meal, pop corn, bread, plantains, yams, yucca, malanga smothered in palm oil and sprinkled with coconut meat. Offerings include steak, pork, poltry, goat meat and all fresh fruit, the fruit is often served with fresh sugar cane and placed within jigueras. In some aspects he enjoys salted fish and rooster meat, served over black or red beans and rice, and is always topped of with a glass of liquor and a lit pipe of tobacco or lit cigars. His younger vueltas enjoys hard candies, coins, sweetened yuca guava paist and frosted cakes, while his Petro vueltas enjoy foods prepared with a lot of spices, cayenne peppers, or hot chili or tobacco sauce all served on terra cotta plates, hollowed gourds and jigueras. There are many vueltas of Legba, some honored in Temples while others in Sociedades. Some are known more so in one tradition, while others are only venerated in smaller Sociedades. Of these one finds Legba the vagabond that walks during the night, or Legba Miwa that resides Miwa behind mirrors, Legba el Viejo that resides within mirrors, Legba of the crossroads, or Legba with his cane or pitch fork, Legba the trickster or Legba the sage, but no matter where one finds him; one always finds a Loa of raw human emotions, fears and desires.

Prayer to Eshu I praise the mysteries and power of Eshu! You are the messenger of Olodumare, the Orisha and the Ancestors You are the owner of the four directions: North, South, East and West You are the keeper of the Ashe' of the Orisha You are the guardian of the gates of fortune You are the Lord of flexibility You are the Lord of choice, chance and change! Eshu protect my family. Protect the initiates of the Temple and me also. Let me not be moved against the people. Let not the people be moved against me. Grant me long life. Grant me peace. Grant me elevation of my consciousness.

Grant me the ability to use my own hands. Eshu I salute you

FIESTAS ESPIRITUALES of Sanse de las 7 Divisiones del Panteón Sancista de Puerto Rico

SANSE 7 DIVISIONES DEL PANTEON SANCISTA 21 DIVISIONES 7 POTENCIAS SEVEN POWERS

Feast Days of the Saints are very important within the Caribbean, Latin America and the Hispanic cultures, as most holidays revolve around the birth, life or death of a Biblical and folk Saint. In Puerto Rico these Feast Days are known and celebrated as Fiestas Patronales, in which the inhabitants of each Pueblo

gathers together in la Plaza of the town square to celebrate the Patron Saints of that particular Pueblo. Food, music, and carnival rides are every where as local Puerto Rican artisans as well as vendors from Haiti, the Dominican Republic and as far as Venezuela and Colombia, come to sell their goods. The Fiesta Patronal is always started and.ended with a Mass, the starting Mass is known as La Misa de Gallo and is always done on the eve before las Fiestas "Midnight Mass" at the local church which is often at the heart of the Pueblo. In many town such as Loiza Aldea and Ponce, where a large Puerto Rican community of African descent reside, a procession is held where a large statue of the local Virgin or Saint is paraded through out the town as people sing and play music in her or his honor. The following is a list of Fiestas Patronales en Puerto Rico, Date, town or towns and the name of the Saint of that particular area.                  

January 6 - Aguas Buenas - Los Santos - Reyes Magos January 9 - Corozal - La Sagrada Familia January 17 - Añasco San Antonio Abad January 20 - San Sebastian - San Sebastian February 2 - Lajas / Manati / Mayaguez - Virgen de la Candelaria February 3 - Caomo - San Blas March 3 - Patillas - San Benito March 17 - Loiza - San Patricio March 19 - Ciales / Gurabo / Lares / Luquillo / Pañelas - San José March 31 - Patillas - San Benito April 29 - Guaynabo - San Pedro Mártir May 1 - Arecibo - Apostol San Felipe May 3 Bayamón / Trujillo Alto - La Santa Cruz May 15 - Maunado / Sabana Grande - San Isidro Labrador May 30 - Carolina / Toa Alta - San Fernando June 13 - Barranquitas / Ceiba / Dorado / Guayama / Isabela - San Antonio Padua June 24 - San Juan / Maricao / Orocovis - San Juan el Bautista June 30 - Toa Baja - San Pedro Apóstol

                   

July 16 - Arroyo / Barceloneta / Cidra / Cataño / Culebra / Hatillo / Morovis / Río Grande / Villalba - Virgen del Carmen July 25 - Loiza Aldea / Aibonito / Fajardo / Guánica / Santa Isabel - Santiago Apóstol July 31 - San Germán - San Germán August 6 - Comerío -El Santo Cristo de la Salud August 10 - San Lorenzo - San Lorenzo August 15 - Cayey - Nuestra Señora de la Asunción August 21 - Adjuntas - San Joaquín y Santa Ana August 30 - Rincón - Santa Rosa De Lima August 31 - Juana Díaz - San Ramón Nonato September 8 - Agua Buenas / Jayuya / Moca / Salinas /Hormigueros - Nuestra Señora de Monserrate September 29 - Cabo Rojo / Utuado / Naranjito - San Miguel Arcángel October 2 - Yabucoa - Los Angeles Custodios October 4 - Aguada -San Francisco de Asis October 4 - Naguabo / Vega Baja - Nuestra Señora del Rosario October 7 - Naguabo / Vega Baja /Yauco - Nuestra. Señora. del Rosario October 12 - Canóvanas / Río Piedras - Virgen del Pilar October 24 - Quebradillas - San Rafael Arcángel November 4 -Aguadilla - San Carlos Barromero December 8 - Guayanilla / Humacao / Las Marías /Juncos / Viques / Vega Alta - La Inmaculada Concepción December 12 - Ponce - Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe

In Dominican 21 Division and Puerto Rican Sanse, these dates are especially good for a Fiesta Espirituales, or Spiritual Feast, Veladas and Misas for the Loa. A Fiesta Espiritual is always planned months ahead, and some can be extravogant events while others are more private humble affairs, they can be all night vigils or parties with food music and dancing or times of quiet prayer, offerings and meditation. The bigger Fiestas Espirituales are big parties, but unlike any other party, los Lwa, los Orisha, los Muertos, Las Comisiones and the Sanse come down and participate in the festivities. Some Fiestas Espirituales have live musicians while others play Spiritual music, usually by Celina y Reutilio, Celia Cruz, Los Nanis or other music which is aimed at the Cuban Santeria or Dominican 21 Division, while others play ritual Cuban Bata music or Puerto Rican Le Lo Lai, Bomba and Plena. Puerto Rico being the melting pot of the Carribean, one must expect that Cuban Orisha, Haitian and Dominican Lwa, Taino Zemi and historical Puerto Rican folk saints and heroes would sooner or later interact in a small island of such great deversity. While most Carribean traditions work with the Lwa or Orisha and most of the music is traditionally aimed at inviting each Misterio within a sequence of ritual songs, which follows a ritual order, this is not the same within Sanse.

In Sanse ( Sance ) Sancistas work with los Muertos, and not so much with Mistsrios de Alta Luz. These Muertos are known as Seres, Emisarios Embajadores, Comisiones, and Los Sance. These Spirits are generally messengers of the Misterios or other divinities, who come down not just to dance, but to consult, lift causas, cleanse and purify. Some Sancistas are able to manifest one of his / her Jefe ( Lwa ) from their Spiritual frame and it is never quite certain when a Misterio or a Sance of that Misterio will come down. Traditionally with most other traditions such as Santeria, if a toque for Chango is being played, the music calls on that particular Spirit and that particular Misterio will manifest. This is the same for Haitian Vodou, but not so true with Dominican Vudu or Puerto Rican Sanse. The Spirits have their own free will, their own minds, so if a song for Chango or Candelo is being played a Sance of Anaisa can come through or a Madama, an Arabe, a Pirata or even a Taino Spirit if they so wish to manifest. Also if a Haitian Mambo gets mounted by Erzulie or a Cuban Santero becomes possesed by Ogun, in Puerto Rican Sanse and Espiritismo Criollo or de la Mesa Blanca, a Gitana, Arabe, Indio or a Sanse de Misterio can come down at the same time. Often the Fiesta runs smothly as Lwa, Orisha, Comisionesband Muerto dance, interact and consult together naturally and often compliment each other as if these things where normal.

A Sancista generally works more with the dead than with the Misterios. Sanse in itself is a combination of Hatian and Dominican Vudu with Puerto Rican Espiritismo Criollo (Folk Spiritism ) and the proper name for Sanse or Sance is either one of three. " Sanse de las 7 Divisiones del Panteón Sancista, or Sanse de La 21 Divisiones del Panteon Sancista. Or La 21 Divisiones del Panteon Sancista de los Siete Jefes. (The difference between the first two, Sance de las Siete Divisiones del Panteon Sancista, and Sanse de La 21 Divisiones del Panteon Sancista, is that the Sancista works los Sanse of los Siete Jefes and is an Espiritista, while Sanse de la 21 Divisiones means the Sancista has also undergone Dominican initiations ceremonies is a Sancista, Espiritista and an initiate of Dominican

Vudu, while the latter means the Individual has a godparent in both Sanse and 21 Divisiones and works them both.). To answer your question I have never under taken any Dominican Initiations there for I am a Sancista and Espiritista of Sanse de las 7 Divisiones del Panteón Sancista as was my Padrino, Tia, and all in my Spiritual family, we have never gone to the Dominican Republic and our ceremonies have been done in Puerto Rico or the mainland of the United States, although I work closely with many Dominicans who are of la 21 Division. A Fiesta Espiritual always starts of with an Hora Santa or a Velada, in which prayers are recited to protect all the Mediums and all who have come to participate in the Fiestas. After the Hora Santa, the music begins, cigars are lit, incense and candles are lit and the music, dancing and fiesta commence as Lwa, Orisha, Emisarios, Comisiones, Sance and Muerto are invited to come participate with the congregation of the Centro, Templo, or Sociedad. Although followers of Puerto Rican Espiritismo Criollo and Mesa Blanca call the saints by their Catholic names, and recently Espiritismo on the island has been blended with aspects of Brujeria, Curanderismo, Santiguarismo, and Yerberia. Many Puerto Ricans call the Santos by their Catholic names, while those who follow Sanse, Santerismo or 21 Division use the respected names of the Loases, and of course often interchangebly. Many Puerto Ricans will agree that the Santo is not, nor never was the Misterio. What the Santo is to the Misterio and visa versa is a Representante or Representative of the other, a vuelta, a camino an aspect or a road, "of the same" but not one in the same. They are of the same, as is God, Jesus and the Holy Ghost, but not the same. What follows bellow is a list of important dates to those who work 21 Division, Vodou and Sanse. It is impossible for one to celebrate each day and traditionally Sancistas celebrates ones Patron Saint, ones Guardian Angel and ones Misterios that make up ones Siete 7 Jefes en Sanse or attends Fiestas or Hora Santas for those who are under the guardian ship of a particular Misterio or Santo. A fiesta espiritual can be an elaborate affair starting with a vigil then all night dancing, or a private quiet ceremony with a few

trusted loved ones, or even an Hora Santa, where the individual sits quietly before the Tableau, Mesa Blanca or Santuario and prays and meditates alone, offering servicios.

PUERTO RICAN EQUIVALENT OF THE CUBAN AFRICAN POWERS LOS JEFES DEL SANSE ECE HOMO = DIVISION SOLIER 1. PAPA LEGBA = DIVISION LEGUA 2. PAPA OGUN = DIVISION OGUN 3. EL BARON = DIVISION GEDE 4. BELIE BELCAN = DIVISION BELCANES 5. METRESILI = DIVISION METRESA 6. PAPA CANDELO = DIVISION DEL FUEGO 7. CACIQUE INDIO DE LA PAZ = DIVISION AGUA DULCE

JANUARY Bon Dye / Buen Dio el Todopoderoso The creator of all there is, all there was, and all there ever will be. The Omnipotent one, Omnipresent, and Omniscient, the Sorce of all creation. He/she is that Mistery that can never be comprehended by the Lwa and all creation alike. He/she name can not be muttered by humans, thus his/her name is a mistery to all. Every second, every minute, every hour, every day, every night and every year belongs to Papa Buen Dios. Although the masculine Papa Dios is always used, he/she is not limited to such earthly limitations.

Luis Guedesito / Gendesito Niño de Atocha - January 1: Guedesito as he is often called is part of the Guede Division and Niño Division. The Guede are the sacred dead and messengers of the dead and Guedesito is a messenger and a child like trickster spirit that enjoys playing pranks. Inosan Balendyo / Inosan Niño de Atocha - January 1: Inosan Balendjo is the child of Ofelia Balendjo, the sister of Ogun Balendjo. Gran Simbi Glo / Gran Rey Molinu / Rey del Agua Jesus Getting Baptized - January 6: Ancient father of the Simbi Division of Spirits, Padrino of Mama Chimba and great Magician Loa who is the bearer of souls, both are of the Rada Division and their offsprings are ancient spirits whose Division is named after them. "Division Simbi" Candelo Gayo Neh San Baltazar - January 8: Gayo Neh is the Sacred Rooster, the Messenger of the Candelo Division, that speaks when danger or betrayal is near. He is symbolized with red and black feathers and is a messenger of both Candelo and the Ogou Nation. He is of a fiery personality and represents brut strength and communication. Centinela / Tribuñal /,Simamayo Pye Saint Sebastián - January 20: In Sanse and 21 Division there is a division of Spirits known as the Centinela, within Sanse each human has one, they guard humans and protect them from psychic attack and spiritual warefare, they are like Spiritual Armour. Simamayo Pie belongs to the Nation of the Centinela and is also known in Spanish as Buen Centinela de Dios. In his vuelta as a Guede he is known as Sangriñè. Many Puerto Rican Sancistas call him el Gran SanSe. Ezili Alaila Nuestra Senora de Altagracia - January 21: Virgren de la Republica Dominicana.

Gran Toro Sentado / Gran Torolisa / Gran Toro Lizan Jesus de la Buena Esperanza - Last Sunday of January: Gran Torolisa is the Father of la Division Petro or Division Negra. He is a fierce spirit, a Lwa of uncontrolable energies, animal instincts and urges. He is a well known Sorcereer and can render any black magic impotent. He is not a Lwa to be taken lightly, he is symbolized with Bulls and Bull's Horns and signifies strength, the power to conquer and the ability to push past obstacles to achieve success and the ability to get things done and the fight for freedom and independence. Ana Manbro Piel Maria Rosa Mistica January 30: A vuelta of Anaisa Pye. FEBUARY Brighuede / Brigueda / Brigede / Guedesa Santa Briged de Irelanda - Febuary 1:

Brighuede is an ancient Guedesa and older Sister to Brigueda / Gran Mai Brigette "Santa Brigitta de Sucia". Many confuse these two Misterios as one in the same, or difrent vueltas of the same Lwa, but they are difrent Misterios. Candelina de Sedife / Candelita / Candelina Senora de la Candelaria / Maria Candelaria - Febuary 2: Partner of Candelo Cedife, some say wife, and mother to Candelito. Some say each one Candelina, Candelita and Maria Candelaria are three difrent Loa or three vueltas of the same one. Maria Candelaria is the Sance Gypsi that walks closely with that Commision. Candelo Pelayo / Pela Yo - San Blas Febuary 3: A very popular vuelta of Candelo Cedife within Puerto Rican Sanse and guardian of hot tempered children. Guedesa Santa Agueda de Catania - February 5: The Gede are a huge

Division within Sanse and 21 Division and very few have a Saintly syncrenition, but the few that do are those Ghede who are on their way in becoming Loases although they are Loa. Guedesa is one of them and other vueltas include Gedilia, Gediliah, Guedalia, Guedaliah, Guedelia, Guedellha, Guedalla, Guedilia, Guediliah, Gedalla, Guadella, Guedalha, or other variations of the name. In Misas and Fiestas she is represented by el Pan Espiritual which has healing properties which is blessed by the dead. Gede Zaina San Caralampio - Febuary 10: One of the ancient Gede of many Gede, Ghede Zaina was one of the first souls who came down from the heavens on a thread and took life in human form. Obatala Bel Linde / Batala Be Linde Our Lady of Lourdes: Febuary 11: Nago Misterio of purity, cleanliness and patron of albinos. Clemencia Santa Eulalia - Febuary 14 Piel Básica / Juan "Jan" Bakéo / Papa Pye Legba Pierre Saint Peter - Febuary 22 / June 29: This Misterio is known by many names, in many difrent traditions, he is a great messenger, and locksmith. He holds the keys to the world of the Spirits and the Misterios and there exsist no door or pathway he can not cross. Gran Siligbo / Mama Sili Gbo Saint Photine Samaritana / St Photini The Samaritan Woman February 26 / March 20: Female aspect of Gran Soley, sister of Belie Belcan, she is of the cleansing flames of the sun, and she is the Misterio who purifies through water and fire, and bestows healing and magical power through herbal baths. She is symbolized by fresh clean water, wells and the the rays of the Sun. MARCH

Luis Guede San Luis Gonzaga - March 9: Damballah San Patricio - 17 of March: Well respected and ancient Loa in Haitian Vodou and 21 Division. Ogun Guerrero Saint Joseph the Worker - March 19: Ogun Guerrero is a great warrior, and governs over labor and hard work. He is the great blacksmith of the Loases. Gran Alouba / La Vieja Lubba Santa Catalina De Siena - March 25 / April 1: The Misterio of the suffering wife, she governs and protects against domestic abuse and violence, especially to her servitors. She is the Loa of the broken woman, who can survive or fall pray as a victim. Gran Cali Saint Gabriel - March 24 / September 29: Brother of Belie Belcan, messenger of Papa Buen Dios. APRIL Candelo Agadùn Justo Juez - Good Friday before Easter Sunday April: Gran Baron del Cementrio San Elija del Monte Carmelo - 17 of April / 20 of July: Gran Baron del Cementerio is the leader of the Guede Division, he is the eldest of them and leader amongst all Baron who are represented as the oldest male grave within any given Cemetery. He is one of the most widely respected Misterio and with Baron de la Cruz and Baron Sabalo make up a mighty trilogy. Ghuede Nimbo La Croix / Papa Guede Limbo / Baron de la Cruz San Expedito - April 19: He is the Baron which is represented by the Highest tomb or eldest tomb with a Cross.

Gran Bwana Pye Santa Inez del Monte Perdido - April 20: Sister to Gran Bua, and symbolized poisounous herbs, roots and weeds. She is a great herbalist who lives alone in swamp lands, and also symbolizes the beauty in those things that are faboting. She is a care taker of wild animals. Legba Coehn Niño Cautivo / Nino de Cebu - April 21: Ogun Ferayo / Ferraille Adogan Piel Saint Marcos Evangalist - April 23 / April 25 : He is the Lord of battle and the Loa of logic, reason and wisdom. Ogun Baldagri / Ogun Badagri San Jorge - April 23: Third in line of the Ogunes and brother to Ogun Balendjo. Ogun Badagris is the lord of the blade, in command of all weapons, armory and warefare. After Badagris comes Ogun Palama, Ogun Batala, Ogun Ge Rouge, Ogun Galloneh, Ogou Fonain, Ogun Candelo, Ogun Wenceslao, Ogou Criminel, and Ogun Onsù to name a few. Each are warriors and protectors of humanity from occult enemies and demons, and each governs over a weapon or metal tool of choice. Some are warriors, others are healers, defenders of justice, and others harvest the land with their Iron tools of the trade.

Papa Pie Anciano / Ogun Ferayo / Jan Ferro Saint Marcos Evangelist - April 23 / April 25: Papa Pie is the venerable elder loa of languages and communication, and governs over the communication between the Loases and between humans, he is the Loa that signs the peace treaty or signs the documents of war. Candelia Llegua Nuestra Señora de los Desanparados - April 27: Legba Tibon Niño Pa - April 30:

MAY Atacua Balenyo San Florian - May 4: One of Ogun Balenjo's youngest sons, he works within the fire division and his padrino is Papa Candelo, and is invoked to render weak, black magic that uses the flames of fire, since he is the Lord of flames. Legba Lado Niño de Praga - 3rd Sunday of May: Ogun Feregai Saint Pancracio - May 12: Mama Metresa Marassa Our Lady of Fatima - May 14 Ogou Oca / Saca De Pye San Isidore the Laborer - May 15: Saca De Pye is the worker of the land, the farmer, the Loa of the Harvest and agriculture. He is also known as el Santo Jibaro. Gunguna Balenyo Gunguna Gulyone Gunguna Guitienné / Gunguna Guilloné Saint Hellen - September 14 / May 21: Gunguna is Gunguna Guitienné (Guilloné). Gunguna is the great sorceress and is a Loa of water, and walks with the Guede spirits. She is the mother of the first Hougan. She is symbolized by Iron nails, those nails used to build homes,coffins and the larger ones used in railroad tracks. Nails symbolize from life comes movement, which follows death, and then rebirth. Guedelina Santa Rita - May 22: San Sereni del Monte / Sarai / Sara la Kali Santa Sara = May 24 - August 19: Misterio very popular in Puerto Rican Sanse and Espiritismo Criolla, she is Loa of Gypsies, bagabonds, wanderers, and outcasts and she works with her sisters Maria la Magdalena, Maria Jacobi and Maria Salomé. The

latter three are vueltas of las tres Marias in some Sociedades. Anaisa La Chiquita Jean Dearc - May 30: In Puerto Rican Sanse Anaisa Chiquita is a spirit of feminine power and beauty. JUNE Ague Taroyo / Fieber Taroyo / Agallu Tarollo Saint Ulrich / San Norbert = June 6: Ague Taroyo is the Lwa of the depths of the ocean floor, the abyss and the unknown mysteries of the sea. He is also known as Fieber Taroyo, which is the volcanic lava that creates islands and destroys civilisations. and is symbolized as the fever of the earth. He can be a violent and unpredictable Loa, and should be greatly respected. He is seen as a mulatto of green eyes. Papa Chimbi / Pai Simbi / Ochu del Mar / Ochu Mar Saint Bartholomew - June 11 - August 24: Ancient Loa of tranaformation, son of Gran Dambala and Ayida Wedo. He is a great sorcerrer, a water spirit and a part of the Simbi Nation. He is known world wide as the Rainbow Serpent, and has manifested himself materially as the Staff of Moses. Gran Bohique San Onifre - June 12: Gran Bohique del Monte is a Misterio that resides in the woods, and is a part of the Agua Dulce Division and Gran Bwa Nation, he resides in the woods and desert. He is a great solitary Bohique "Shaman Brujo' and the collective souls of the Great Cacique warriors and hunters who resides within the woods and caves.

Papa Legba San Antonio de Padua - June 13: Not the eldest but one of the strongest of the Legba / Legua / Lebane Division. Papa Legba is a great messenger and opener of doors to opportunities. He holds the keys to the material and spiritual plane and must be

called on first. Other vueltas include Leba Manose, Legba Macute, and Legba Gramisi. Piti Emanuel San Manuel Bueno, Mártir June 17: Juan Prieto / Pai de Agua / Tiyan Danto Saint John the Baptist - June 24: Juan Petro or Juan Prieto along with Juan del Fuego form a part of the Division of the Yanes or as it is called in Puerto Rico and Venezuela as los Juanes, some are puro Misterios, while others are Comisiones on their way of becoming Misterios. Some are also Centinela and some are Magos. Within this group pertain the Misterios of Haitian Vodou and Dominican 21 Division known as Yan Petró, Yan Fegó de Gonaíve, Yan Bakeo Similo Pie, and Yan Kriminel, who is also known as Kriminel. Metres Mambo Esili Freda Daome Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Succour = June 27: Ezili Freda for short is the sister Loa of Erzulie Dantor, Freda is the Loa of Love and Passion. While Dantor is a fierce warrior Freda is a coquetish Loa who loves her servitors and enjoys the company of men. She is the Loa of the heart, perfumes and tradifionally enjoys Locion Pompeya, which is always kept with her servicios. Legba Isasan San Pedro - June 29: Ogun Sarabanda / Congo Saint Peter the Carpinter - June 29: Juan "Jan" Bakéo Saint Peter the Fisherman - Febuary 22 / June 29.:

JULY Olicha Baji / Olisa Balli

San Enrique el Emperador - July 13: Olisa is the Misterio of the altars and shrines, he is the great inspector who inspects altars shrines and dreams. He inspects all offerings and shrines and lets us know if they are aceptible or unaceptible to the Loases whom the shrine is constructed for. He is a great Houngan who gave apon humans the wisdom of using herbs in preparing healing aromatic baths. Guede Bravo San Camilo - July 14: Guede Bravo is the Holy Gede who is responsible for being near the beds of those that are making the transition from life to death. He is a great Doctor and healer and he has the abilities to tell when a Spirit will pass or stay on earth. His devotees are also gifted with this gift as they to can tell when a sick person will die or not. Some Sociedades view or sincrenize Guede Bravo with Dr. Jose Gregorio Hernandez or el Indio Bravo. Ezili Dantor July 16 / August 15: Maitresse Gongote Selayo Santa Rosalia - July 15: Sister of Baron del Sabado, she is the Godmother of Guedesito alongside with Prim Gede. La Barona Mama Buyita Virgen del Carmen / Nuestra Señora del Monte Carmelo - July 16: Mama Buyita is the wife of Gran Baron del Cementerio and mother to the Guede Division she is the Loa who speaks in a high piched voice. Baron del Cementerio San Elija del Monte Caramelo - 20 of July / 17 of April: Guedé Lhea San Alejo - July 17: Olisa Maisia Moquea Mary Magdeline - July 22: Loa of clairvoyance, psychic sense, intuition, divination and divine knowledge, wife of Fa. Fa

mysteries are not worked within Sance or 21 Division, but he as all Loa is greatly respected. Gran Mai Brigette / Brigueda Santa Brigida de Suecia - July 23. Papa Loko San Joaquin - July 25: Great Loa brother of Papa Boko, who leads spirits into the head. Papa Boko San Deshacedor - July 25: Powerful Misterio who is a great Magician and Sorcerer. He combats black magic, defeats occult enemies, and the evil eye. He also governs over the dark arts. Guede Bravo San Camilo July 25: Ogun Balendjo San Santiago Apostal - July 25: Ogun Balendjo is the Lord of lightning and storms, he is austere and a very dignified Mistsrio. He is a distinguished soldier, and brave warrior. He is always with his trusted Caballo Blanco which he mounts to do battle with those demons that plague humanity. He protects with his sword and shield and does battle with those who commit wickedness. He specializes in diplomatic, social and family affairs and is a master in the battle field. He is the eldest son of Ogou and leads the division of the Ogounes alongside his brothers Ogou Badagri, Ogun Fegai, Ogun Panama, Ogun Onsu, Ogun Negue, Ogun Batala, And Ogun Fonai to name a few. Although Ogun Balendjo is a fierce warrior, he is also the great healer, the great doctor who heals those who suffer within the battle field. As he can take life with Iron, steel and metal, so can he heal with it. Gran Bwa / Gutapie Anfinido Saint Jude - July 25: Gran Bwa is the Misterio of the forrest and woodlands. He is a hermit, and an herbalist and knows all the mysteries to the healing and poisousnous properties of herbs. He is a guardian of wild life, and belongs to the Bwa Division, his

closest kin folk is Gran Bois or Gran Bosque. He is also known as Gran Bwa Megui and is a great Curandero, and governs alongaside Gran Bosque, Gran Bwa Ileo and Gran Bwa de la Montaña. Together they protect Gran Bwana Pye a female Loa who governs over wild herbs. Ogun Nagua Saint Mercurius - July 25: Guedé Alawe / Gran Bwa Ile / Rio Tempestuoso / Arroyo San Cristopher - July 25: La Metresa Mama Mambo / Maitresse Mambo, Saint Anne - July 26: Metresa Mama Mambo is the mother of Anaisa Pye, the loa of Passion and feminine power. She is always depicted with her daughter Anaisa whom she teaches all her mysteries of suduction and conquering the hearts of men as well as magic, she is a queen and a great sorceress. Anaisa Pierre / Anaisa Pyé Young Mary with Saint Anna - July 26: Anaisa Pye is one of the most loved Misterios within Sanse and the 21 Division. She is a coquestish Misterio and enjoys jewelry, perfumes, and make up. She is the Misterio of Feminin Power, Love, Passion., and dancing. She enjoys expensive liquors and fine tobacco and is a healer of women and viginal problems, other Vueltas include, AnaIsa Saoco, AnaIsa Limina, and AnaIsa de las Siete Vueltas. Esili Freda Lady of Perpetual Help July 27: Sentinela Gran Boa San Pantaleon - July 27: Ezili Kénwa Saint Martha - July 29: Ezili Kenwa is the Witch of the swamp lands, the woman of the dark forrests. She often works magic with her sister Filomena Lubana. Filomena Lubana

Saint Martha the Dominadora - July 29: The Misterio of Domination, dominating obsticles, fears and even the 5 senses of humanity. Madam Chimby / Mama Chimbi Saint Martha the Dominadora

July 29: She who holds the Ghede Simbi Loa, Siguelia and Sigueloa AUGUST Mambo Lemiye - Abuela Buku August 1 / September 17: Ancient mother of night and day, good and evil, light and darkness, water and fire, she is an ancient Lwa and mother to the Nago Nation and adoptive mother to all Nations. Las Tres Marasa Las Tres Marias - August 1: Fe, Esperanza y Caridad. Mambo Yelefe Señora de la Nieve - August 5: Erzulie la Valiente / Metres Guedesa Mazaca Virgen Negra de las Nieves - Auguest 5: Legba Manose San Cayetano el Mellizo / Anima Sola - November 2 / August 7: He is known as El Gran Mellizo, the twin brother of Papa Legba, and of all the Legba he is the greatest of charlatanes. Klemezin Klemey / La Señorita Metresa Clarabel Saint Claire - August 11: La Señorita Klemezin brings clarity, light, clearness, good vision, she clears obstacles and blesses with clairvoyance, insight, and aids us in seeing and recognizing those things that are dark, and evil. She blesses all with the sixth sense. She is the light that guides us through the dark periods of our life, and fills our heart with faith and hope. She helps us in

combating black magic and blesses us with the mercy and energy of Papa Dios. Filomèz / Madam Filo / Filomena Saint Philomena - August 11: The maiden loa of happimess and inocense, she is symbolized by the wild flowers that grow in the medows, and the broom which she uses to clean the home of negativities and dirt. She does not tolerate liquor or tobacco, but rather those things that smell good and clean. She is the Loa of the kept home and does not tolerate dirt or messy surroundings. She governs over flowers and sweet smelling herbs, sweet oils, aromatic resins, flower, herb gardens, perfumes and cleanliness. Filomena is a beautiful maiden, adorned with garlands of roses, vaporous fabrics, loves gardens and delicate fragrances. Ezili Dantor 16 of July and 15 of August: The Petrosa Spirit par excellence, she is one of the most widly known, most loved, highly venerated and most saught of, of the Erzulie Nation. She is a Petro Spirit that also pertains to the Metresa Division in which she rules along side her sisters, such as Ezili Ge Rouge, Sili Ye Ush, Petro Sili, Sili Criminel, Ersili de la Torcha, Sili Boutpied, Sili Kenwa, Sili Kita and Sili Mapyang as well as other Esilis mentioned here. Papa Sobo San Roque - August 16: Papa Sobo is the Great Healer, and twin brother of Papa Viejo Lebga Carrifou. While Papa Viejo brings illnesses when one is recklace or careless, Gran Sobo is the healer, the medicine the great Santiguador. Rosita Legba Saint Rose of Lima - August 23 / 30 - Papa Legba's youngest sister, once bethrowed to Ogun Balendjo, and Alague she is the ever virgin maiden, and is symbolizes by the Red Rose which is a flower to the Dead. Polizón Fronté / Polison La Fronte / Gran Bwa Megui Saint Bartholomew the Apostle - August 24:

Dan Wedo / Ogou Dan Hueso Weso King Louis IX of France - August 25: Dan Wedo / Dan Gueso / Dan Weso is the son of Dambalah and pertaining to the Ogoun Nation. He is a mystery of changes, purification and of shedding ones skin and becoming another. He is a great Warrior Loa. Candelo Farai San Benito de Palermo - August 28: Prin Guede San Benito de Palermo / San Ramon- August 28: Candelo Fronteh Saint Moses the Black / Saint Blas - August 28: Agassu Milwa San Agustin - August 28: Rosita Legba Santa Rosa de Lima - August 30: Rosita Legba is the Loa Misterio of the Rose. Her symbol is the Roses in the garden, and which one offers to both the Dead, the Saints and the Misterios. Rosita Legba is the Loa of heart break, spinsters and bachlorettes and watches over all those women who suffer in love. She is the youngest sister of Papa Legba, her colors are Rose, Pink and Brown. Papa Marasa Twa Saint Raymond Nonnatus - Augest 31 SEPTEMBER Maitresse Gongote Selayo Santa Rosalia September - 4 /July 15: La Sirena Estrella Maris - September 7: Yemalla Del Norte Virgen de Regla + September 7:

Yemalla Del Sur Estrella Maris - September 7: Cachita Tumbo Our Lady of Charity - Sept 8: MI QUERIDA MADRE Gunguna Balenyo Santa Elena - September 14 / May 21: Madre Sili / Metresili Lady of Sorrows /Mater Dolorosa - September 15: Guedé Sanguiñao / Sanguiñé San Cipriano - September 16: Great Magjcian Loa who fathered Siguelia and Sigueloa. Mambo Lemiye - Abuela Buku September 17: Ancient Loa Misterio, Mother of aposing forces, night and day, good and evil. Mambo Laselle la Virgen de la Salette - September 19: Centinela Sabalo San Eustaquio de Roma - September 20: Ofelia Balendjo Our Lady of Mercy - September 24: La Merce, Ofelia Balendjo, also spelled Ofelia Balenyo is the the sister of Ogun Balendjo in Santeria she is the female aspect of Obatala. She is an Ogun Spirit belonging also to La Metresa Division. She protects against justice and court matters and her.cloak covers her children with divine Sanctuary. La Marassa Saint Damon and Saint Cosmos - September 26: Protecter of twins, great healers and symbolize cosmic dualties.

Ogou Palama / Ogun Panama San Wenceslao - September 28: Belie Belcan Tome / el Viejo Chiquito / Cojito San Miguel Arcangel - September 29: Salve Belie Belcan a great Misterio most loved in Sance and Vudu. Judge and Lawyer defender of evil. Tindjo Alague Saint Rafael - September 29: Leader of the Agua Dulce Division. Gran Cali Saint Gabriel - March 24 / September 29: Agome Tonèr / Guedé Dionisio / Guedé Alawe San Jeronimo - September 30: OCTOBER

Ti Pierre Dantor Santa Teresita de Lisieux - October 1: Younger sister of Anaisa Pie / Pierre Gran Bosque / Osanje / Gran Selva Saint Francisco of Asisi of the Cross - October 4: The Yerbero Mayor, the great herbalist, the one who holds all the wisdom and mystery to every healing herb. He is known in Vodou as Gran Bois and is a part of the Gran Bwa Nation, and like his brothers he is not to trusting of humans. He is also a great protecter of wild life and wild animals. Oggun / Gran Ogou Negro San Mauricio - October 5 / December 27: Gran Oggun is the eldest of the Ogun Division father of Ogun Balendjo, Ogun Badagris, and all the other Ogun. Some say father others say older brother of Belie Belcan. He is a Rada Spirit, a Puro Misterio,a great and ancient warrior, and is the one who rules over all weapons, metals, and war. Amongst the Ogun he holds the highest rank as General of the Celestial Army, which he

shares his ranks with all his sons. All the Ogun Nation fall under him, such titles that fall below him are General, Lieutenant General, Major General, Brigadier General, Colonel, Lieutenant Colonel, Major, Captain, First Lieutenant, Second Lieutenant and so on. He is symbolized as the great laborer, the Misterio who works none stop in Buen Dios' celestial army. Rosaura Candelaria / Rosario Candelia Nuestra Señora del Rosario - October 7: Guedé Uhsu San Luis Beltran - October 9: Feast Day of all Indios fourth Friday in September and October 12:

Indio Alague, Indio Carinoa, Pluma Blanca, Indio de la Paz, Cacique Sentado, Indio Aguila Roja, Indio Enriquillo, India Ciboney, India Jihoanya, Indio de la Paz, Indio de la Fuerza, Indio Poderoso, Indio de la Guerra, Indio Bravo, Indio Libertador, Indio Valiente Guedélia Legcua Santa Teresa de Jesus - October 15: Guedelia is the former wife of Ogun Balendyo before Ezili Freda. She is the Metresa of the market place, graveyards and divine justice. She is a.Misterio of change and the gates of graveyards are a symbol of her vigina which symbolize the transformation of life into death, then rebirth. Baron de la Cruz / Baron del Sabalo Saint Gerard - October 16: Vuelta of el Baron del Cementerio Legua / Leguas San Hilarion - October 21: The Legua division is named after this Misterio, and both San Hilarion and Legua are important within Sanse, Vodou, 21 Division and other traditions, they lead the Spirits of the Comisiones and other Misterios to the Misas and

Fiestas and open the doors. As all Leguas do in their league "division" they are often Spirits of the roads and messengers. Ghuede Gran Bwa Saint Jude - October 28: NOVEMBER Dia de los muertos / Dia de Ghuedes November 2. Many Guede are on the list they are governed by Baron del Cementerio and some Ghuede include, Guede Nibo, Guedeh Mazaca, el Señor Don Gede,, Ruperto Guedde, Roberto Gedeh, Dionisio Gwedeh, Vicente Gedeh, Guedde Bi, Guede Lia, Guede Imbo, Guede Infum, Aracne Guedde, Gede Zaina, Ursula Guedde, and Gedelia de La Cruz, Gedeh Siete Encrusadas, Gwedeh Siete Sombras, Gwedeh Siete Capas, Gede Calavera, Guede de la Boveda, and Gedeh Catatumba to name just a few of the infinite Guedes. Feribunda Bendita Anima Sola - November 2: Feribunda is the keeper and overseer of cemeteries, burial grounds and graveyards. Feribunda is viewed as the sacred four corners that surrounds the realm of the dead and is guardian of the four Centinela del Cementerio, Boco Tebú Tecacho, Abúm, A Lembó and Cacique, Rey de la "Encabezá. Feribunda is the central point. Mambo Marinette Las Bendita Anima Sola - November 2: If we talk about the Petro Spirits we can not forget this Spirit of Fire. She is a fierce Lwa, and not one to be taken lightly. Although she is a Metresa she is unlike the others, because she deals with pure pain and suffering and is not one to be played with because she will burn, conquer and destroy. Marinette was born of the suffering of the slaughter of the African and Taino people and she is of raw chaotic emotions. She is the shackles and the chain, the whip and the rope, she is of fire and of water, of pure suffering and pain. She is a true witch of fire whom she rules with her sisters Marinette Bembele and Marinette Shampwel. In Cuban Santeria she manifests as Antonia Gerbasio, and in Puerto Rico she is Amalia

Eboso. She is la Llorona, la Gritona in Central and South America. She is not worked with but a Spirit that should be respected. Others include Marinette Bois Cherche, Mari Anette Coeur Noir, Maria Antonia Sangran or Maria Sangrona and Maria Celestina Abdenago Candelo del Monte / Candelo de la Escoba Saint Martin de Porres - November 3: Candelo Borro Meh Saint Charles Borromeo - November 4: The Great healer who manifests within humans with fevers, sweet, and endurance. Papa Candelo Papa Candelo - November 4: Candelo is symbolized by Fire and leader of la Divison del Fuego, raw energy, animal instincts, pleasures and dance. He is the Spirit of male sexual instincts and enjoys tobacco, fire water such as Rum and Aguardiente. He is the Spirit of Dance. Papa Candelo has many vueltas or caminos, some are Candelo Monta Escoba, Pa Candelo, Señor Monsieur Candelo, Candelo Anton , Candelo Malayo, Filemon Candelo, Candelo Sedife, Candelito, Oliborio Candelo, Candelo 7 Espinas, Candelo Fellago, Candelo Funeral and Capitan Petro Candelo. Candelo Cedife Saint Charles Borromeo - November 4: Candelo of the Fire Tourch. Of sexual raw energy. Mama Tete / Mama Cepona / Mama Tetona / Madre de Agua / Atabeira Divina Providencia - November 9: Patron Saint and Guardian of the Sanse tradition, and Puerto Rico she is a Petro Loa and part of the Agua Dulce Division known as Cemi or Zemi. Gran Ogun Batala San Martin Caballero - November 11: The Ogoun of the Peace Treaty. Guedé Martyin San Martin de Porres - November 11

Bakúlu Baká Saint Philip - November 14: Bakùlu Baka is the Loa of the dead of the forest and woods, he is not a Loa one treds lightly with, but must be greatly respected, all Spirits of the forests who died a tragic death are under his watch. Mambo Sesil Santa Cecilia = November 22: Guede Lacua Juan de la Cruz - Vuelta to Baron de la Cruz. November 24 / December 14: Amalia Belcan / Amalia Dominga Soler La Milegrosa - November 27: Amalia Belcan, is the Queen Mother of the Belcan Nation, in her arms she holds Piti Belcan / Chiquito Belier. Clementina La Milegrosa - November 27: Maitre Carrefour / Maestro de la Encrucijada San Andrés Apóstol - November 30 - Petro aspect of Papa Pie Viejo and Papa Legba and Guede Lacua. He is the one in the crossroads who walks the night with demons and tourmented souls. He is the Petro Loa who has the power to open and close the veils to those spirits who are trapped in the material plane. DECEMBER Nago Ogu Chango Santa Barbara Africana / Chango Macho - December 4: This is the Chango Macho king that is widely venerated in many traditions, he is the Misterio of Thunder and Lightning. He is also sincrenized with Saint Michael of the Spear. He is of the Ogun Nation which are a very masculine Nation but often does not get along with his brothers because of his flirtatious, careless, carefree,androgynous, festive and womanizing ways.

Sili Danto / Ezili Danthó Pye Mater Salvatoris - December 4: Candela Centella Saint Barbara - December 4: She is the Loa who is the closest in associatiom to the Orisha Oya Iyansa. Gran Soler / Solier San Nicolas del Sol / Gran Poder de Dios - December 6: Leader of the Soley Division, closests Mistery to Papa Buen Dios. Papa Marasa San Nicolas de Bari / San Nicolas del Sol - December 6: Head of the Niño and Marasa Division, protector of Children. Miniquita Bercan / Consepcion The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary December 8: Candelo Siete Espina Jesus Negro - December 8: Mama Gizan / Mama Yimo Gamba Ayima Santa Lucia - December 13: Papa Pie Viejo / Legba Carifu / Pata en Llaga / Pie Casse San Lazaro - December 17: The eldest in the Legua division, he is the Mistery that governs over illnesses and diseases. Like his brother Sobo, he is also a great healer. Piti Solier / Piti Soler / Chiqui Soli Niño Dios - December 25: a younger vuelta of Gran Solier. Legba Grasimo Niño de las Suertes - December 25: Piti Legba Divino Nino - December 25: The trickster child spirit.

Luis Guendesito Nino de Atocha - December 25: Candelito Niño Divino - December 25:

BARON DEL CEMENTERIO BARON OF THE CEMETERY AND THE GHEDE

The Ghede are not the Guia Espirituales "Gide Lespri" of ones Cuadro Espiritual persay, as the Ghede march to their own drum. They as a division can bring comfort as much as they can bring fear, they can sustain life, as they can feast on death. They can be happy and at the same time stern. They can bring comfort and bring fear, and of all the Mysteries and Divisions; none is as mysterious and as unpredictable as the Ghede.

Of the Gede family also spelled Ghuede, Ghede or Guede ( I will use variations of the spelling through out this blog post ). none is as widely known as el Baron del Cementerio. He is the ancient Lwa and guardian of the Cemetery and graveyards, and is the Lwa who has a foot in both planes of existence, one foot in the realm of the living and one foot in the realm of the dead. He is often known as the rebel and disobedient Lwa, who passes death at a drop of a hat. The Cemetery and graveyards are his playground, his kingdom and his domain here on earth, and as with many places on earth, it is considered a "Punto" of pure magical energy and within its walls egoists an energy that can strike fear, terror, wonder, peace, awe and sorrow within the hearts of humanity. In Spanish it is known as el Camposanto and it is in this place that el Baron del Cementerio reigns as King. It is in these sacred sites and hollowed grounds that our dead, and our ancestors reside, and it is in this area where for many, after death, our humanly remains will reside. The eldest male tomb of any given Cemetery is also viewed as a Punto of much sacred energy, for it is this tomb that is the sacred shrine of el Baron del Cementerio. It does not matter if the eldest tomb is that of a male infant, child or that of a male adult who lived until ripe old age, it is here where el Baron del Cementerio manifests his energy on earth. It is at the oldest grave and at the entrance to the cemetery where el Baron del Cementerio keeps his watchful eyes on all those who enter and leave. It is at this Punto where practitioners of Haitian Vodou, Dominican 21 Division and the Puerto Rican Sance tradition make and leave their Servicios to el Gran Baron del Cementerio and his Division. He is known as the leader of the Ghede Division, their King, their Ruler, their Priest their Father and their Godfather, their Jefe, for the Ghede can not do anything without first consulting with el Baron del Cementerio. Offerings to el Baron del Cementerio are always left at either the entrance of the graveyard or before the oldest male tomb. If the tomb has a Cross or a Crucifix this is sacred to el Baron del Cementerios vuelta known as el Baron de la Cruz, and if you are good at remembering dates and know for a fact that the person was buried on a Saturday then Baron del Sabado ( Baron Samedi

/ Sabalo ) comes into play, if the oldest grave is that of a female, then La Baronesa, La Barona or Mama Buyita are Queens of the sacred grounds. The offerings known as servicios are always placed before the tomb on a punto firmado and three crosses or exes with cascarilla or red brick are drawn upon the tomb and a punto firmado is drawn with corn meal Offerings to the Baron del Cementrio and the Ghede are always spicy and hot; dark rum soaked in hot peppers, jalapeños or habaneros, fried sweet plantains, rice and beans, food with much spice, unfiltered cigarettes, pork rhinds, ice cold strong unsweetened coffee, popcorn, seeds and peanuts. Which are placed within a jiguera and on top of the Punto firmado which is comprised of crosses, a coffin, a shovel, a pick, a top hat and skulls, drawn with the corn meal and are all sacred symbols of the dead and the cemetery. All this is often surrounded by 9 candles of red, purple black and at times yellow, which are placed around the tomb. Servicios are often done on Tuesdays, or Fridays, at 12 noon, or 12 midnight.

GRAN BARON DEL CEMENTERIO

( 9 is the number of the dead and purple and red is the color of royalty. ) Each corner or cardinal point of the Cemetery is protected by a Centinela, there is Boco Tebú Tecacho "North", Abúm "South", A Lembó "East" and Cacique, Rey de la "Encabezá "West" and those who become initiated into Sance and 21 Division are instructed on where they are properly located and who these Centinela where in life. But each simple offerings must always be presented to them first, then crossed before you and placed on the Punto firmado before the tomb. Offerings are placed in potato sacks, or a jicara / jiguera and a pave woven hat are placed on top of the tomb, with a pair of sunglasses that is missing one of the lenses. The Ghede spirits including el Baron del Cementerio and all his vueltas are never truly satisfied, they are gluttonous spirits who are the first to partake of all animal sacrifices given within Vodou, Palo and Santeria, ( Yes the Gede are part of the Ocha tradition, Orisha such as Oya, Yewa and Iku are Ghede ) and at the very moment of death when the Ghede consume, it is el Gran Baron del Cementerio who stands before them. The Guede have an unquenchable thirst for the essence of death and the Ghede always feed when life is lost through murder, natural causes. accidents, through a freak of nature, or when another Orisha or Lwa in their natural environment needs to feed, it is the Ghede who feast first. ( Roadside Descansos are also sacred to the Ghede Division especially that of el Baron de la Cruz and Mama Buyita. ) Although the Ghede are spirits of death, the Baron del Cementerio who is also the Angel of Death and the Ghede are also known for being great healers and guardians of children and can heal those very things that may bring death or even prolong it. It does not matter the age, financial statues, religious views or

race, the Ghede will mount all, at least once in this lifetime, even if its through the physical death if the body.. The Baron del Cementerio has three major vueltas that I have spoken of earlier and each is syncretized with a Catholic Saint, as is the case with most Lwa. ( The Catholic Saint is what we use most to depict our Lwa. ) El Baron del Cementerio is syncretized with Saint Elijah of Mount Carmel, Baron de la Cruz or Papa Ghede as he is also known is syncretized with Saint Gerard de Mayela and Gede Sabalo or Baron del Sabado is syncretized with Saint Expedite, or vise a versa depending on the practitioner.

GHEDE

PAPA GHEDE

Although the Ghede manifest their energy when ever they so choose, it is during the night, darkness and sleep when our senses are heightened that we feel their presence the most. It

was as it is still today when the great Necromancers unknowingly invoked the Ghede, and for this very reason why el Baron or one of his vueltas is viewed at their patron Lwa. Through the use of blood and invoking the dead is when the Ghede are present, whether the person knows them, or calls them by other names, they are their. The Ghede are also spirits of great sexual energy, and all intranquil spirits, espiritus atrasados, anima solas and burlones work under them and are below them. They manifest themselves in their human followers as those who enjoy things Gothic, dark, and unfaboding to the eyes of the normal societies standards of what is viewed as the norm. Although the Ghede are tricksters and lively spirits that enjoy sexual encounters, they will at a drop of a hat punish those who disrespect them with depression and suicidal thoughts. They also manifest within humans in those who are interested in the occult and arcane secrets, witchcraft, sorcery and black magic practices and are as quick to answer ones desires as they are quick to punish those who tamper with them in any disrespectful way. In Haitain Vodou el Gran Baron del Cementerio is known as Barón Cimitière, Baron de la Cruz is Barón Le Croix and el Baron del Sabado is Barón Samedhi, his most ancient name is that of Gede Nimbo and his consort is La Barona, Gran Maman, or Mamman Brigitte and La Baronesa, and together they feast on the essence of death and spawn new children, from the begging of time until the end of time. Although they fathered many children two of their eldest are Ti Gede "Piti Gette" and Gede Zaina. (The Adam and Eve of the Lwa Pantheon.). But this I will get into further along in this post.

GUEDE LACUÁ, GUEDE SOMBI AND GUEDE CEMITIEL.

GUEDE LACUA Guede Lacua manifests himself as the spirit of that who is the oldest grave in any given graveyard or cemetery. This is especially true if the boveda has a Cross upon it. Often when speaking of the Ghede the first misiterpertation one gets is that they are muertos, which in further study of the Ghede one will learn that this is far from the truth. Yes the Guede are the Spirits of the Dead, but they are also Lwa, they are Misterios, and like no other Division they are minions of Ghede, multitudes and many. Each country has their names for some Ghede and many Ghede appear in every tradition but with obvious difrent spellings of the name. Gede such as Lacua, Sombi, Senché Cemiché Guedé Alawe, Guedé Carifu, Guedé Lhea, Guedé Martyin, Guedé Dionisio, Guedélia Legcua, Guedelina. Luis Guede Gunguna, Guedelia, Guede Bravo, Gongote, Prim Guede, Buyita and so on and so on.

Guede Lacua a vuelta of Baron de la Cruz; who is both Ghede and Lebane, his number is 3 demonstrating his 3 major vueltas and his color is red and black, which symbolizes from life comes death, which makes way for life. It is for this reason many believe that the Orisha Eleggua is Guede Lacua, I believe its another vuelta in the link that creates the chain as a whole. If I was to synchronized Eleggua with a Misterio it would be Guedesito or Eleguedesito, which both pertain to the Guede and Lebanes Division at the same time. But Eleggua is a Nago Spirit an Orisha and must be respected within his own tradition, Division and in his own right. Guede Lacua is also closely associated to the Ogun Nation, and where ever a Desacansos memorial is placed, it is because of the mysteries behind the Ogun division and Guede Lacua. Guede Lacua is a very important Vuelta, an ancient Vuelta of Baron de la Cruz or Baron la Croix, he is the Ghede that stands at the crossroads, waiting to feast. He is symbolized by the Crusifix and the Cross, and the black rooster is his messenger

here on earth. He controls over the brain, he can cure or bring illness at the same time. He can give you clarity if the mind but also blind side you. He is the word of reason, but also the word of betrayal. In this aspect he works closely with Guede Sombi who is the Loa of cerebral damage. He symbolizes the essence of life, but at the same time the essence of death. In this aspect Guede Sombi "Zombi" is symbolized by those who suffer cerebral unbalances, such as those in a coma, those with Aleichem's.and those with dementia. On earth Guede Sombi is viewed as a Cimarrón Ghede and is symbolized by a dead tree, and thus he lives in the woods and forests with some of the Lwa of the Ogun and Bwa Nation and feasts at night within the tombs of graveyards and cemeteries. He is the Loa who stands at the outskirts of the cemetery, or manifests in places where an unexpected death occurred, for this reason no one knows when he is to come or go. He is the Ghede who has no place in heaven and no place in hell and so he lives in solitude within the forests between the realm of the living and the realm of the dead. Services to Ghede Sombi are done on a dead tree or tree trunk within the graveyard or cemetery and seen as the life that grows or lives within the dead tree or trunk, often aguardiente, tobacco are placed and offerings are bundled up in weaved sack cloth and buried. Ghede Sombi is the spirit of the first person to die of cerebral complications and he is viewed as an ancient old man with wrinkles and scars. He dislikes water, and prefers his aguardiente, old straw hats, and black or brown fulas. Like all Guede, Sombi also enjoys Habaneros, dark rum, spicy food and hot peppers, and like all Guede they are the first to consume any fresh offerings. The act of death and decaying are them, but also the act of other creatures feasting on the offerings. Even flies which gets them nice and plump for Ghede Aracne or Gede Zaina. Ghede Cemitiel is the Loa who is symbolized as the actual grounds of the Graveyards and Cemeteries while his other vuelta is Guede Senche who is the overseer of the cemetery and the gravedigger. Senche is the godfather of the hollow corpse, as he initiates the body into the sacred rite of burial. The gateway of the cemetery are symbolized as Cemitiel's mouth, opens the doors for consumption, Senche initiates them, and Lacua places

the cross and directs the soul to where it needs to go depending on their acts in life.

GHEDESAS

BRIGUEDA

El Papa Barón as he is often known and his wife Gran Maman Brigitte are the parents of many Lwa and Orisha that govern the Nation of Ghede, some such as Guedelia, Guedelina, Llegua, Filomena Lubana, to name a few, but the youngest and eldest at the same time is the Gede known as Ti Ghede also known as Piti Ghede. In the new world she is synchrenized with Saint Brigette and also goes by the name Brighuede, Brigwueda, Brigeda, la Pequeña Brigite or simply Maman Brigette. Since her mysteries represent the eldest and youngest she is also known as Maman Gede. This Lwa rarely manifests within ceremonies, but when she does, she comes as a coquette young adult that enjoys

flowers, in other vueltas she manifests as an orphaned child, scorned by the hardship of life, and can be a bit quarrelsome and soft spoken at the same time. But if she manifests as Maman Brigitte, she comes as the righteous judge of the living and the dead who wears a black laced veil and walks with a cane as she uses herbs, holy water, perfume liquor and potions to heal and protect all those around her from an untimely death. In other South American traditions she and her other vueltas come as Harlot gypsies, Jezibels and women of the night, that come dancing and are full of seduction, these manifestations often smoke cigarettes, drink anisette liquors, speak in crude tones, laugh and enjoy to dance in the bodies of the Casilla they mount. These female ghede spirits are often the souls of those women who in life were outcasts, such as prostitutes, harlots, alcoholic, drug addicts or abused victims. In what ever manifistation that they come, which is limited to our human views of good and evil, these Ghuedesas come to offer their spiritual help and advice. In whatever manifistation the Ghedesas come they come to offer help and place things in their natural order. While the Ghede are ofren untamed, and uncantrolable masculine energies of the dead, the Ghedesas egsist through feminine emotions, all they do, and how they act, involves feminine desires and emotions, may it be sorrow, pain, fear, love, lust or grief, and it is only through the Ghedesas that the Ghede can be controled, dominated and tamed. Ti Guede and her sister Guedesas who are on their way to becoming pure mysteries have the abilities by the grace of Buen Dios and watchful eye of el Gran Baron del Cementerio to help those in need, and they always meet the requests of those who come to them with pure intentions.

GEDE ZAINA If your are a Hispanic Espiritista, Santero or Sancista, there is no doubt that on your ipod or in your cd collection you have a

music collection by Celina y Reutilio, Los Nanis, and of course the classic cd by the Legendary Cuban Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz. Her album Homenaje a Los Santos is a favorite, and songs to the Orisha, Yemaya, Agayu, Chango and Babalu Aye are sung to Mambo and Salsa music from the late 50s and 60s. But amongst the songs to the Yoruba Gods, "which is similar to the case of Celina and Reutilio having a song to the Lwa Papa Candelo amongst the Yoruba Orisha" one also in Celia Cruz' cd comes across a song sung to a Lwa from the Guede Division and sung in Haitian Kreyol, the song goes like this.

Guede Zaina woy woy, Guede Zaina, Guede Zaina woy woy, Guede Zaina woy woy, Guede Zaina. Guede Zaina, yo fè complo pou yo tchié moin woy woy, Guede Zaina. Guede Zaina, yo fè complo pou yo tchié moin woy woy, Guede Zaina Guede Zaina, yo fè complo pou yo tchié moin woy woy, Guede Zaina' Guede Zaina or Gede Zaraignee in Haitian Kryol comes from the French word for spider which is Araignée. So the Guede in the song is a Spider, then the song goes on to say. 'Woy Woy!" Which really has no English translation, but it is an expression of being surprised or caught of guard and in Caribbean Spanish we say "Ai ir Ui" while in English it would be. "Wow!". Then the following line says. "yo fe komplo pou yo touye mwen", which is translated to mean. "They the enemy has comes to kill me.". So the song is translated to say.

Guede Zaina, Wow Wow! Guede Zaina! Guede Zaina, Wow Wow! Guede Zaina! They Have come to Kill Me. Guede Zaina! Guede Zaina, Wow Wow! Guede Zaina! Guede Zaina, Wow Wow! Guede Zaina! (Repeted)

In Spanish.

Gede Araña, Ai Ai! Gede Araña! Gede Araña, Ui Ui! Gede Araña! El Enemigo viene a matarme, Gede Araña! Gede Araña, Ai Ai! Gede Araña! Gede Araña, Ui Ui! Gede Araña! So in all actuality the song is an invocation to Guede Zaina for protection from those who wish you bodily harm and to free you from your enemies.

WHO IS GUEDE ZAINA? In the many branches of Vodou from Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, there is a division of Spirits known as Sambi Division. These spirits are viewed as ancient serpent and snake Lwa of wisdom and magic, and amongst this division one finds Dambala, Ayida Guedo, Mama Chimbi, Papa Chimbi, Ochu del Mar, Gran Simbi Glo and countless other Lwa. But snakes and serpents were not the only creatures viewed as divine within Vudu and its many branches. Spiders where also viewed as Spirits, and often messengers of the of death.. This belief of Serpent and Spiders as divine spirits can also be seen in Ancient Aztec and Mayan cultures. One close look at the image of Tonantzin "Our Lady of Guadelupe" and one will see that at her feet one will notice her dress turn into a Serpent's head and below her praying hands one will see a bow of six ribbon which symbolized a Spider which was a messenger of the Dead. In many African cultures it was believed that the first two human souls, one male and the other female traveled to the earth on a golden thread which was symbolic of a Spider's web and then

took human form. They lived a long and fruitful life, but when they died, they became the first Ghede, that of Ti Ghede, and Ghede Zaina. Gede Zaina, Ghede Zaraignee, Guédé Zaranye or Guede Zariyen and also Gwede Aracne represents the spirit of the first human soul who became Guede, not all human souls will become Ghuede. Unlike el Gran Baron del Cementerio who always has one foot in the world of the living and one foot in the world of the dead, meaning he can occupy two places at ones, human souls are unable to do this, so, one of the steps up the Spiritual latter and for those that follow the ancient African ways become Ghede. Of defied ancestors or the venerated dead. Guede Zaina as a spider symbolizes that our legs our feet touches the earth and walks the paths our ancestors walked, and that our head, faces towards the heavens, towards Papa Buen Dios and the elevated Mysteries. It symbolizes, "Asi come en el Cielo y en la Tierra or As Above, so Below." This in itself represents that the codependency and interchanging between the living and the dead is needed for advancement and spiritual evolution and growth. This concept is affirmed in Puerto Rican Espiritismo. El Muerto Pario al Santo, or Antes de Santo avia Muerto. Which is translated to mean. The dead gave birth and rise to the Saint, and before there was a Saint there was the dead. This Espiritismo Criollo and Mesa Blanca Espiritismo concept reaffirms the concept that we are a product of our heritage our culture and that our decisions for Spiritual development must start with our dead and our ancestors. The spiritual web is a symbol that all the universe is tied and connected by an invisible thread, both heaven and earth are connected and obtainable by those who search for it. "Seek and it shall be found, ask and it shall be given."

ANANSI

If Guédé Zaranye is so ancient he would be known far and wide, this is true. In Ghana the Spider is called Anansi or Ananse, a trickster, mischievous Spider Spirit, who enjoys music, and like the Ghede, Anansi is a lover and protector of children. Anansi is as many Ghede, a cross between the Ghede Division and the Lebane "Legba" Division. Although Anansi was a trickster, he was a messenger, and was portrayed as very wise and intelligent. Anansi mischievous ways where not confined to Africa, in the Caribbean he became Ghede Zaiyna and many southern African Americans can remember their grandmother's story of the trickster spider. Anansi. For this reason Spiders should never be harmed, they should be respected as messengers of the Ghede. Ghede not only feed of the energy of those alive, but of those demons from hell alike. Demons are often symbolized as Flies, hence the saying Beelzebub is the lord of the Flies, and Ghede are the spider that traps them and feast on their very energy. So the Ghede are great protectors, highly intelligent and mischievous tricksters, and the group of Lwa that are closets to us.

WHAT IN FACT ARE THE GHEDE The Ghede is a Division of Loa that is well respected not only in Haitian Vodou, but in 21 Divisions and Sance. Many people confuse the Ghede with a Spiritual Guide, because of the very word Gede, Guide being Gide in Kreyol and Guia in Spanish. Also many confuse the Gede with the Division of the Centinela, ones dead or other Spirits in the Comisiones. This is not correct, and I am going to explain this in the view point of a Puerto Rican SanseSancista follower. The Centinela are those Spirits that guard us and spiritually shield us from psychic attack and black magic, the Sances are the Ancestors and embasadors of other Divisions of Misterios or Lwa, while the Comisiones are Spirits

that guide us and does not nessesarily mean that in life they practiced Vodou, Santeria or Candomble per say. The Ghede are not our direct ancestors, or neither is it necessary that a Ghede that you honor necessarily had any blood ties with you, the only connection to us they have is Spiritual. Know while both the Centinela, the Sance and many Spirits in the Comisiones can reincarnate or be reborn into life, the Ghede do not. They are above the Centinelas, Los Muertos, las Comisiones, los Embajadores and los Sance but still very close to the realm of the living. If fact they are viewed as Lwa or Mysterios, while the other groups of spirits I mentioned above are not. Example the Sance are messengers of the Mistsrios, but they are not Loases. The Centinela in Puerto Rican Sance are not Lwa, but Spirits that have a mission to protect in order to reincarnate or climb another step in the spiritual latter. To make it more complicated some Centinela can become Ghede but no Ghede will ever become Centinela. Ghede in life where not evil they are those who in life where mischievous, pranksters, highly sexual and so on. The same can be said about the Centinela, they were not evil but were soldiers, thieves, robbers, who in the after life in order to purge and elevate must protect us from those very things they did in life. Example of a famous Centinela would be Dismas who was crucified next to Jesus on his right side, he was a thief who was forgiven by Jesus and in death became a Centinela to cleanse his soul in order to elevate, while Gestas on his right would be more a Ghede. The Ghede are a mystery that we as humans can not completely comprehend. They can be both Saint and Demon, both healers and bringers of death. If the Ghede are to surround any human, they would surround no other more than they do human children, because children in their curious ways, in their tantrums and desires resembles that of the Ghede. Generally speaking human children have a stronger psychic sense than their adult counterparts, and their young bodies are more accessible to death than those of an older individual. The Ghedes are great healers as much as they

enjoy the taist of death, something that is definitely not true of the Centinela and the Sanse. But like the Comisiones and the Muertos they enjoy material offerings. Again something that is not necessary for the Centinela. The Ghede are also highly sexual beings, and the act of sexual human pleasures is one thing that keeps them grounded and close to the material plane. The Ghede are Lwa and above those Spirits below them, but still they are below other Divisions such as Lebanes and Ogunes to name a few of the 21 plus Divisions but still they are as powerful and in many cases even more powerful than other Lwa because they still have the strongest connection to the material plane, where ever death is, at that very moment before life is absorbed from the body, Ghede are present. This falls true for every living being and thing on earth, plant, animal and human. When Ghede are mounted in Haitian Vodou, they come dressed in their Gothic black attire, or top hat with cane, and they prefer their face painted as that of skull to demonstrate that they are both alive and dead at the same time, they like no other Lwa can ocupy two planes at one time, Life and death. The Ghede above all Divisions are the most feared, misunderstood and most respected of all the Divisions. This is true for both humans and Lwa alike. Often times the Lwa themselves fear and respect the Ghede, and ofren have little if any patience for the Ghedes anticts, and outbursts, and most often wish nothing more than to avoid their, cheerful, brash, obscene and mischievous ways while at the same time demonstrating poise, confidence and gracefulness. The Ghede often enjoy their offerings of Rum spiced with Habanero peppers in which they vigorously rub on their eyes and genetils while wearing sunglasses at night with a missing lense, which often repulses the Metresa Division and the Nago Division, while at the same time entertains the Lebane division. While every human is born with a Spirit Guide, a Guardian Angel, each and every human being, may they work with them or not, or may they know it or not is born with a Legba, an Ogun and a Ghede, This is why the Ghede are a highly respected Division within Vodou, 21 Divisiones and Sance. No Houngan, Papa Boko,

Mama Mambo or Sancista would work their tradition with out one of them in their daily work of consultation and traditional medicines. The Ghede are honored, respected and venerated just as one would their Cuadro Espiritual and Santos.

GEDE SABALO ANOTHER VUELTA OF PAPA GED GHUEDE LIMBO \

PRAYER TO EL BARON OF THE CEMETERY Baron, Selected of the Cemetery, three times I call on your holy name. With the help of the powerful strength of Sansón, you will give me your three selected spirits, so man or woman born may not do an act of treachery against me, and no injustice will condemn me. Let all evil and perverse ideas that ______ may have against

me be revoked. Make them come humiliated and repenting with all their hearts to me, by the order of the Baron of the Cemetery. Aibobo, Amen and Ache!

ORACION AL GRAN BARON DEL CEMENTERIO

GRAN BARON DEL CEMENTERIO

Barón del Cementerio ¡Oh! Patron elegido del cementerio, Barón del cementerio, Barón del Cementerio, Barón del cementerio. Invoco tu Santo nombre 3 veces que ayudao por la potente fuerza de Sansón, me conceda de tus mis allegados espiritus, para que me concedan que hombre o mujer nacida, no haga acto alealevosos en mi contra o en contra de los mios, y para que en ningún caso la Justicia Terrenal me persiga y connden y otra, para que todas las ideas perversas que tengan ( nombre de la persona o decir : Sea cual fuera la persona en mi contra), se vuelva en

contra de ellas, hasta que vengan a mis pies a humillarse. AMEN!!!

LA BARAJA ESPAÑOLA SPANISH FORTUNE TELLING CARDS CARTOMANCY

One of the most important and widely used decks within the Hispanic community for divination and fortune telling is La Baraja Española. This deck is the one used by Curanderos, Hechizeros, Espiritistas, Brujos, Gitana, Santiguadores, Santeras and Sancistas, from Mexico all the way through Argentina, the Caribbean and Spain. If you have ever received a Consulta in a Botanica you will notice that this is the deck used by Latinos for videncia 99% of the time. Although in recent years with the popularoty el Gran Tarot Esoterico and other Spanish titled decks, el Tarot are becoming more fashionable. Like the Tarot deck each naipe "card" has a traditional meaning or a singular key word that is used to represent the meaning of el

naipe "the card". Usually a novice is given a deck of the Baraja with a key single word written with ink until the novice learns the meanings by heart and receives a new baraja "deck" without the written words. Traditionally the deck is not purchased by the reader, but given as a gift from an elder, a Padrino / Madrina or someone in the family, or inherited from one's grandmother or godparents. The old inherited decks are not used for consultas but placed on the altar within a wooden box as a ritual item believed to hold much psychic energies; and link to its previous owner or as a vehicle in which one connects with ones Pitonisa. It is also said that traditionally Spanish gypsies and brujas stole the deck, as one who personally purchases the deck takes away from its prophetic abilities. (This is also true with Holy Water, one never purchases it.) I by no means am I condoning thievery, but if you purchase your own deck, then use them as an offering to your Madama or Gitano Spirits or to play the Brisca card game, as these cards should be received as a gift from an elder, family member or client. Or you can put them on your wish list for your next birthday or Christmas gift. When using the Baraja Española the whole deck is used, usually in piles of 6 across and 8 piles down or 8 across with 6 piles going down. Each naipe is interpreted left to right, and if additional questions are asked after the Spiritual Consultation, then from top to bottom. Hispanics generally do not use any popular spreads associated with Tarot cards such as the Celtic Cross or Gypsy spread, or none of the New Age spreads that are associated with the Tarot. All the cards within the baraja are interpreted and the Consultation can last anywhere from 30 minutes, to an hour. But one can use a three card spred, the celtic cross or any spred one chooses.

You will notice in a Botanica setting that the Consultant usually will have an empty chair near the Consultation room which often faces towards the entrance of the consultation room, with a glass of water, a lit cigar or even a cigarette. The empty chair is usually reserved for one of the Consultant's Spirit Guide that presides over the consulta "reading" and the tobacco smoke is used as an offering to the spirits as a way of having the words of the reading reach the Spirits, or make a connection with one's spirit to help with Videncias. (Clairvoyance) The water is there to help with Spiritual fluids. Some also use the cigar TOBACOMANCY in cohesion with the deck, meaning they interpret the ashes formed on the rim of the cigar as well as the formation and direction of the smoke. The deck is often kept in a wooden box which guards and.protects the cards when not in use, this wooden box is called a caja de muertos, cofre, or ataùd.

LOS PALOS THE SUITS

The various suits in a Baraja Española are known as Palos, and each Palo goes from strongest to weakest. The strongest Palo is the Espadas "Swords" then Oros "Coins' followed by Copas, "Cups" and finally Bastos "Clubs". They represent social classes and economical statutes. Espadas the Warriors or the military. Oro, the Well to Do, the merchants. Copas, family, religion and spirituality and Bastos, the workers of the land, or peasants. Also each represents an element, a division of spirits and a sexual gender. Espadas. Swords, Air Male, White Division, The Rada. The Orisha, the Nago, the Ogun Division. The Belcanes. Oro. Coins, Earth Female. Earth Division. Las Comisiones, Las Cortes Espirituales, Las Metresas. The Gypsies

Copas. Cups, Water Female, Indian Division, Division Agua Dulce, Native American Spirits. The Zemis, the Cemi. Las Metresas. Female Loa and Orisha. Bastones. Clubs, Fire Male, Preto Division, Black Division. The Guedeh. The Legbas. The Candelos. Looking at the deck you will notice that only two of the Palos as a whole can be completely reversible, this being the feminine Oros and the Copas, while the masculine Bastos and Espadas only a few are reversible. Also traditionally it is known that Copas and Bastones are palos that are of a beneficial posative nature, while Oro and Espadas are of a detrimental and negative nature. This does not mean that Oros or Espadas are evil, they are opposing forces of nature that bring upon balance; they are like Ying and Yang, night and day. Oros and Copas represent the influencers of the feminine Moon, or things of a nocturnal nature while Bastones and Espadas represent the Masculine Sun and Diurnal influencers. The Copas and Oros represent human qualities and types that are usually fair skinned individuals with blond or brown hair. While the Bastos and Espadas can represent tan or individuals of darker skin complexion with darker hair, brown, black or red. The Espadas refer to matters of physical, spiritual and mental health. Usually of a negative matter, dislikes, trials and tribulations. Accidents, battles, health matters and strife fall under this suite. Geminis, Libra and Aquarius fall under this palo with its respected dates. Commission Spirits, and Saints Gemini Papa Legba, Luis Guede, Eleguita, Niño de Atocha. Cosmos and Damian. Los Jemelos.

Libra Obatala, Ecce Homo, Belie Belkan Aquarius, Los Indios la Metresili, La Dolerosa, The Ogun, Marta la Dominadora The Oros refer to economy and martial possessions, liabilities, inheritance, investments, and capitol expenditures. Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn and its respected dates fall under this palo. Commission Spirits, and Saints Taurus, Orisha Oko, Gran Torolisa, los Congos Virgo, Yemaya, Las Madamas, La Sirena, La Ballena, Capricorn, Aganyu Sola, Agueh, Papa Sobo The Copas refer to matters of love, feelings, sentiments, emotions, matters with couples, lovers, children, family, and personal relationships. Cancer, Piecis and Scorpion with its respected dates fall under this palo. Commission Spirits, and Saints. Cancer Cachita, Anaisa Pye, Atabeira. Erzulie Dantor, Obba, Scorpio, Centinela, Kriminel, Santa Marta Dominadora, La Baronesa. Pisise Los Piratas Pirata Confresi, los Marineros, La Sirena, The Bastos refer to matters of labor, work, movement, travel, energies, and actions are also represented and Sagittarius, Leo and Aries and its respected dates fall under this palo. Commissions, Spirits and Saints.

Aries, Ogun Belanjdo. Los Congos. Ogun Batalla, Papa Legba. Leo, Chango Macho, San Santiago, Los Negros. Sagittarius. Viejo Lazaro, Jose Gregorio, Pa Viejo, Legba Carefaur, Papa Sobo. On inspecting the deck one will notice, El Rey, el Caballo and la Sota and quickly think that the female gender is not represented, this is far from the truth, as I have already stated that the Oros and Copas have feminine qualities and that the Aces of each palo is of a feminine nature, or if not feminine, influenced by it. Although at first glance one would assume that the Aces of Batones and the Espadas are male, which to some extent they are, but deeper wisdom into the mysteries of these Aces one will see its female influences. Also la Sota "the Jack" of each Palo is of a feminine nature and is often called La Dama. Many people remove the Jester in the deck, this card is known as el Loco and some keep it and use it to represent el Tonto, el Loco or the Fool of the Tarot Deck. ( Important Note, the interpertation of any given card can be enhanced or degraded, or diminished, by the surounding cards. )

SWORDS. ESPADAS

Ace of Swords: Legal Matters This card talks of court cases, lawsuits and all legal matters. It speaks of being careful in signing papers or contracts, it advices to read all documents carefully. Reversed means scams, fraudulent scheme, especially for making a quick profit; swindle or trickery. Others are trying to.cheat, defraud, hoax or trick you into doing something, be careful.

Two of Swords: Surprise This card speaks of unexpected surprises, and the surprise depends greatly depends on the surrounding cards. The surprise can be good or bad, expected or unexpected. To strike or occur to with a sudden feeling of wonder or astonishment, as through unexpectedness,. to come upon or discover suddenly and unexpectedly. An unexpected assault from a friend or an enemy.

Or it can be as simple as a surprise birthday party, a surprise message, or surprise information. Negative cards around it speak of back stabbing, two faced individual or revenge. The image of two swords can warn us of a fight wearing the mind causing intense pain and many tears.

Three of Swords: Long Term Events This card alone or the first card to comes up can be negative, a third party interfering in your life or relationships, an ex wife, ex lover or mother in law. An individual that will be around for the long run. It can represent arguments and not being able to make an agreement. Great demands placed on a person, which predict major conflicts and rifts. The card can also predict break ups or separation caused by outside influences. Four of Swords: Obstacles and Poor health This card is often compared with the Death card of the Tarot, it speaks of a period of deception, difficulties and scams. Health issues arise and diseases which could lead to isolation, loneliness and withdrawal. It speaks of a forced exile, either by an illness, a substance abuse, or a controlling partner that will lead to illnesses, weakness, fatigue, abuse or even physical death. This is enforced with other sword cards next to it. Positive cards surrounding it mean overcoming a difficult situation, strength, bravery in taking charge over your life. Going through a hardship that will bring inner strength, along with peace of mind and clarity of thoughts to get ahead and face the future bravely, changes for the better. Five of Swords: Karma

This card is the card of Karma, action, seen as bringing upon oneself inevitable results, good or bad, either in this life or in a reincarnation. Karma the cosmic principle according to which each person is rewarded or punished in one incarnation according to that person's deeds in the previous incarnation. It speaks of one's fate or destiny. In this world nothing happens to a person that he does not for some reason or other deserve. it is the result of our own past actions and our own present doings. We ourselves are responsible for our own happiness and misery. We create our own Heaven. We create our own Hell. We are the architects of our own fate. This card speaks of the Sins of the Father will be paid by his children, You reap what you sow, whatsoever a man soweth, that he shall also reap. For what we do "for good or for ill, shall be returned to us threefold, loath to cause any harm, lest it be returned to you in spades! Six of Swords: Weakness and Pains This card represents inner conflicts, inner demons, skeletons within the closet, secret or hidden agenda, malicious motives. the possibility of hurting others, as well as being hurt. The mental aspect of this card speaks of weakness and it is recommended to be very careful. This card also speaks of setbacks, and potholes in the persons path. It can also represent a dependent person, who needs to depend on others in order to survive, sometimes over dependent. The card also speaks of patience or impatience. Seven of Swords: Short Term Events All things of short term, such as a small vacation, a short love affair, a job that won't last. A short trip not long distance, or a message, letter or information one has been waiting for will come soon. It could represent minor health issues, or moving

into a place that will not be for long or even an argument or a problem that will find its solution soon. Better times are coming and one should save money for those days when there is none. As with all cards this one will be affected by its surrounding cards.

Eight of Swords: Evidence Evidence sufficient to establish a thing as true, or to produce belief in its truth, anything serving as such evidence: The act of testing or making trial of anything; test; trial: to put a thing to the proof. The card can also speak of overcoming problems calmly and with perseverance. There is a period of crisis that is coming to an end, where you can take criticism, slander and some bad news which generated into confusion and intense desire to get away from it all. Can predicts an unexpected trip or getaway.

Nine of Swords: Events for the worse This is a negative card in all respects and it predicts suffering caused by jealousy, slander or deceits. Despair, conflicts confusion and fear. Insecurity, imminent dangers, contracting some kind of illness, addiction or some other health issues. Operations, complications, accidents, theft, and even hospital stay. The evil eye and envy is also represented within this card, as is black magic, curses, and hexes or one paying back for ones wrong doings.

Jack of Spades: Lady of Thoughts A woman with dark hair, brunette, who could be of a darker

completion, may it be a tan or natural skin tone, usually young, and often arrogant. Aggressive and determined character is for told within this card, Spiteful, deceitful, back stabber, two faced and canyving, always plotting and revengeful. The card can represent an enemy. Reversed the card is an older woman with the same qualities but not as intense. Very knowledgeable in the things she does or says, an individual who always gets what they want at any cost. If it is an older woman, she could be a widow or divorced or not currently with a mate. The card can also represent a male with these

Knight of Swords: Knight of Conflicts This knight deals with a young man of courage and endurance, it could also represent a person of a destructive nature with an ill temper. Could be a moody individual, quick to anger, treacherous, with much conflicts, disputes and aggression. Reversed would represent an individual who takes risks, and charge of situations and matters. Could represent a victim of injustice who turned his/her life around for the better. Once this person was in turmoil or despair and has literally turned their life around

King of Swords, Lord of the initiative Older man, with dark brown hair, dark eyes, dark complexion. Also grey hair is represented within this card. Strong character, intelligent, May be an executive or someone in a high position of importance. Readiness and ability in initiating action; enterprise:, one's personal, responsible decision: to act on one's own

initiative. Reversed loneliness, illness or separation who has known happiness and is going through a period in decline. lack initiative, can represent legal matters or problems with the law.

CUPS COPAS

Ace of Cups: The Home This card speaks of matters of the home, moving to a new home or apartment. This card talks about moving in with a partner, starting a new relationship in which you will move in together. Purchasing a new home, or renting a new apartment. If the card is reversed, problems in the home, separation, break up, moving, on from a relationship.

Two of Cups: Fertility This card speaks of all things of growth and fertility. Abundance, new children, pregnancies, birth, and child related issues. Can also speak of children expenses and child support. Reversed miscarry, unable to conceive, abortion, not receiving financial assistance from child's parent.

Three of Cups: News This card speaks of messages, letters, unexpected news, information,, and conversations. The information, may be good or bad depends on the surrounding cards. Gold, information about finances, depts, and money expenses, with other cups information about family or friends. With clubs

may speak about work, promotions or loosing a job, while with swords it may speak of health issues. Reversed, malicious gossip and slander.

Four of Cups: Instincts This card speaks of human instincts such as maternal instincts and the "survival instinct, and to a lesser extent sexual instincts. If the card is of a negative or positive nature it depends on its surrounding cards, remember, some women do not want their children, some commit suicide, and are sexually ambivalent, and this would be apparent if this card was reversed". This card can also speak about intense human emotions such as anger or lust.

Five of Cups: Celebration This card speaks of celebrations, gatherings, parties, and reunions. A period of joy, celebration and optimism. If the card is next to a a page, it has to do with a female, a caballero speaks of a man, while a King speaks of the consultant. Next to Cups speaks of celebration of a birth, wedding, or family reunion. With Clubs, speaks of employment, Coins speaks of income, while Swords tells of a successful operation, healing from an illness, or a successful court case. Reversed, Divorce, Breakups or Separations, loneliness, feeling of abandonment.

Six of Cups: Melancholy This card speaks of a state of sadness caused by a traumatic experience from the past. Memories from the past that bring upon a state of melancholy, fears or other emotional

problems,negative thoughts, bad dreams or nightmares. Reversed health issues arise because of ones depressions, mental issues or psychological disorders.

Seven of Cups: Satisfactions Periods of great satisfactions where our deepest desires will be full filed. Time to pick the fruits of our labors. Rewards the person feels full of health and vitality. Reversed, dissatisfaction, unhappiness, not being for filled, empty heart, void.

Eight of Cups: Influences This card is the card of Influences, and as its name implies the card will be influenced for good or for bad with its surrounding cards. A person can be influenced in both positive and negative ways. Ones actions and thoughts are being influenced, and if negative cards surround it, the person is being manipulated into doing things they would not normally do. The person could be influenced by a parent, a friend, a lover, a coworker, a teacher, a boss, a doctor, a witch or a godparent. If the cards around it are good its a positive influence, if the cards are negative, a negative influence bordering on manipulation. If the cards around it are of health issues, ones doctor is trying to influence us into taking better care of ones health. Reversed, Manipulation, physical or mental abuse.

Nine of Cups: Giving This card speaks of a giving individual, a selfless person who

gives to others without self-interest. This person gives to a cause without economic motivation and is always there to help those in need. Reversed, a selfish individual, disconnecting or detaching; separation. The state of being separate or detached. Indifference to or remoteness from the concerns or needs of others; aloofness. Often a greedy individual.

Page of Cups: Lady of Romance This card speaks of a pale woman of blond, light brown hair, or reddish haired woman often of the signs of Pisces, Cancer or Scorpio. Motherly instincts, a mother figure, big sister, a close friend. The character of this person is a hopeless romantic, very sensitive, often dreamy, loving, creative and would do anything to for fill a lifelong dream. If these charactetics portray a male figure it can represent a man. Reversed, could represent a male or female who is unstable in relationships, unstable in the home, or unstable with the family, rebellious, and angry.

Knight of Cups: Errant Knight This card depicts a man with fair skin, brown eyes and hair. He often strays from his proper course or standards. He is a wanderer, a vagrant such as a stray dog. He is a lover of women but not one to commit to one single partner for to long or be faithful in the long run. Reversed would represent a female of the same qualities. Signs of Pisces, Cancer or Scorpio.

King of Cups: Lord of Dreams

This King represents an older man, often in midlife as is with all kings who is a dreamer, This person is more a dreamer than a person who will do it. Often he reminisces of times long past and compares his life to how things, usto be. The card can also speak of unattainable dreams, or a person who lies so much they often believe the very lies they say. Reversed would represent a female, or a person who has lives in illusions, and unfocused..

WANDS BASTOS / BASTONES

Ace of Wands: Remoteness This Card speaks of things yet to come, or events that may happen within a long term, future plans. A Journey or travel within the future. One must work hard to make these events come into being as they will prove to be beneficial to the person. A holiday or a needed vacation, a getaway. The individual needs

to get away, and enjoy some needed relaxation and rest. This card can also indicate plans that the person has yet to for fill and should.work hard in making it happen. A delayed project, dream, or carrier. If the card is reversed, the person has no motivation, plans do not come into being. Delayed movement, issues and problems with individuals from the past.

Two of Wands: Distance This card tells us of things to come in the not so distant future. Such as a weekend getaway, a short trip, to visit friends or family members. It talks about ones relationship with partners, neighbors, friends or siblings. It talks about those little joys in life that gives us strength and inner joy. Conversations, communications, with those around us. It speaks of searching for those simple joys that surround us instead of looking far away in a distant place. Enjoy and appreciating what you have. New relationships are coming, new bonds, new friends. Can speak of flirtation or a relationship that one has will change. This card speaks of hope in the not so distant future.

Three of Wands Fraternity This card speaks of brotherhoods, bonds, relationships, fraternities. Deep relationships, love, mutual respect, growth and strength in numbers. Clans, family, groups.

Four of Wands: Strength This card speaks of strength, endurance, power, stability, it can also speak of intelligence and physical force. Emotional stability

in.conquering obstacles and setbacks. Strong and stable relationships, inner strength during hardship, especially the strength needed from the problems caused by loved ones. Healthy and stable relationships.

Five of Wands: Wisdom This card refers to knowledge and the inner wisdom that we have acquired through studies and life experiences.. Academic training, initiations, or learning a new trade. The act of learning, study, concentration and analyzing.

Six of Wands:Depression The card is referred to as one of the most negative cards within the deck. Depression, sadness, despair, weakness, fatigue, lack of desire to move forward. Very hard to move forward because the person feels paralyzed. The cause can be from outside influences such as an abusive partner, or black magic. The person can only change by changing their outlook on life, and how they view situations and treat others. The mood of the client is very melancholy and they feel as if there is no coming out of it, it is reflected on themselves and how they treat others and any given situation. As with every card, it is greatly enfluenced by its surrounding cards. With Coins, finances in the home, family problems, with clubs, professional failures, or failures in home and relationship. Sword around it for tell of failures in life caused by outside influences such as envy and witchcraft, while cups problems with relationship or children.

Seven of Wands: Work This card speaks of work or professions in general, obligations and earnings. Opportunities for promotion, job advisement, labor, achievements, goals.

Eight of Wands: Dependencies This card refers to some form of dependency. It can be a dependency on a partner, family member, or other.loved ones. It can be substance abuse such as alcohol or narcotics. This card speaks of unhealthy relationships, especially when it comes to one controlling or dominating the other. If surrounded by swords it speaks of dependencies towards alcohol or drugs, or other bad habits. With Coins it speaks of gambling habits and the need to steel others belongings to support their habits. With clubs it speaks of weak minded individual who likes to dominate and control others, while with cups it speaks of loosing control of anger towards loved ones because of their dependencies.

Nine of Wands: Satisfactions This card speaks of personal satisfactions, may these satisfactions be beneficial or departmental towards the individual, and as always the surrounding cards enhance or deteriorates its meanings.

Page of Wands: Lady of the Passion

This card symbolizes a woman with brown hair and eyes with dark skin Energetic personality, passionate, impulsive, charismatic, creative self-confident and often temperamental. Zodiac signs are Aries, Leo or Sagittarius. Reversed would be sluggishness, slowness, indifference, intolerance.

Knight of Wands: Charismatic Knight A man of dark complexion, dark hair and brown eyes. Very athletic active and energetic, with high ideals, standards and a bit proud. Leadership qualities and very determined. If the card is speaking of a woman then the same is true as above. Zodiac signs are Leo, Aries or Sagittarius. Reversed, competition, rivalries.

King of Wands: Lord of Experience A strong older man or woman. Hard worker, experienced, energetic and charismatic. A boss, a leader. Zodiac signs are Leo, Aries or Sagittarius. Reversed, addictions, dependencies, down ward spiral. PENTECLES

Ace of Pentacles: Triumphs The card of success, triumph, prosperity and happiness. Although at first the card speaks of financial stability, with other cards it can represent overcoming advisories and obstacles in one life. With cups, love, relationships and the home. With clubs, work, profession job related and health. With swords overcoming rivals and setbacks. If the card is reversed, represents over indulgence, over spending, greed and gluttony.

Two of Pentacles: Rivalries This card represents rivalries, envy, jealousy or competition often of material belongings, work positions or finances gain. Resentment against a rival, a person enjoying success or advantage., or against another's belongings. Feeling resentment against someone because of that person's success, or

advantages. a marriage ruined by infidelity, rivalry and jealousy, Reversed, Bode moments of intense emotion accompanied by lack of clarity and agitation. An amount owed to a person or organization for funds borrowed. Debts can be represented by a loan note, bond, mortgage or other form stating repayment terms and, if applicable, interest requirements. These different forms all imply a lack of intent to pay back an amount owed by a specific date. Two roads are present and one does not know the correct path to take, a feeling of being overwhelmed.

Three of Pentacles: Fortune Fertility, fortune prosperity, success, and abundance, starting a successful venture, a potential pregnancy. In business, ability in being responsible, power, recognition and generosity. Reversed symbolizes levity, mediocrity and lack of maturity. Depending on accompanying cards could indicate unexpected concerns in ones personal economy.

Four of Pentacles: Welfare Health, happiness, and good fortune; well-being, prosperity. The condition of being contented, healthy, or successful. Reversed. Dangers ahead, problems, ill being, bad health, disorders, trouble with the law that may culminate in an arrest and incarceration.

Five of Pentacles: Resolutions This card speaks of resolutions, finding answers to a problem, joining with others to communicate and finding answers or a

solution to a problem. Reversed, Rifts or separations within a relationships, such as a friendship or a partnership. Lack of communication, debauchery, and economic loss.

Six of Pentacles: Difficulties While this card represents difficulties, it is through these difficult times that we learn, we grow and learn to tolerate those things from others that may make us upset. Things will resolve themselves with patience. Being able to overcome obstacles. Reversed, trials and tribulations, greed, a run of bad luck, envy and jealousy that can disturb smooth roads that could have lied ahead.

Seven of Pentacles: Gratifications Being grateful, Appreciative of benefits received; thankful. Expressing gratitude. This card can also speak of recognition, awards, prizes, good news. Reversed, ungratefulness, selfish, not feeling or exhibiting gratitude, thanks, or appreciation. Speaks of an unpleasant or repellent individual. As well as Impatience and apprehension.

Eight of Pentacles: Reflection This card is related to ones surroundings, and periods of disagreements, instabilities or even a hostile environment that requires maximum inner reflection of the person to get back on track for healing, moving forward and on with their life. The person must restore balance and harmony within their life, to make up for lost time.

Reversed, the person is suffering from soul loss, or a traumatic experience from their past that does not allow them to move forward. Insecurities, mental and or emotional abuse. A traumatic experience that does not allow the person to heal or move forward.

Nine of Pentacles: Instability This card speaks of an unstable person, it could be the person getting the reading or it could represent a person within their life. The quality or state of being unstable; lack of stability or firmness, the tendency to behave in an unpredictable, changeable, or erratic manner: emotional instability, anger, rage, fury. Being taken advantage, loss of money, being robbed. Reversed announces deceit, deception infidelity, lies, loss of a friendship, unpleasant surprises and broken promises.

Page of Pentacles: Lady of Materialism This card can be a younger white woman, of blond or light brown hair. She is in a very good financial position but has an uncontrolled spending money habit. She can be generous, passionate, loyal, and wants to live the fairy tale life. She is a good friend to those she has but can be a snob who imitates, cultivates, or slavishly admires social superiors and is condescending or overbearing to others. It represents a person who believes himself or herself an expert or superior connoisseur in any given field and is condescending toward or disdainful of those who hold other opinions, are in lower ranks or have different tastes regarding her field. Materialistic. Reversed, means great news or announcements, and also

charity, a person who gives freely of themselves to those in need. A charity or a cause.

Knight of Pentacles: Knight of the Order This card represents a man of middle age, or graying blond hair, friendly temperament, smart, rebellious and curious. Portrays a mature young man with ambition and success orientated. It can speak of economic success and wealth that is gained from ones strong will, efforts, maturity and responsibilities. Can also announces the arrival of an old friend who is disposed in assisting in overcoming obstacles. Foreshadows a possible trip, favorable news and good prospects. Reversed predicts laziness, resistant to work or exertion; disposed to idleness, slow-moving; sluggish. Conducive to idleness or indolence. Greed,, hard headed, arrogant and stubborn.

King of Diamonds Lord of the Game As all cards the Kings can represent a male or female with masculine qualities who is older, often mid life. This king is often white in complexion with gray hair or a light colored hair. He enjoys a solid financial position, with a huge capacity and ability to follow several businesses at once, embodies the experience, intelligence and aptitude typical of a banker, a broker or a millionaire. The card speaks of collaborations, working together, and partnerships. It speaks of a good harvest, growth, wisdom, knowledge and kindness. Reversed speaks of a corrupted individual, who will scam, lie and cheat to get what he desires, an individual of unspeakable vices