Both Voudoun and Santeria are a bit confused due tot he fact that many practices were mingled with catholic practices to hide them from persecution, despite what Urban Dictionary states.

The big distinction of voudoun is (as somebody stated before) the gods ride you. Basically you get possessed by a god and become that god. And no this isn't just the priestesses. In the rituals, many often its a random person who gets possessed and starts speaking as their god, making demands until they pass out. This tends to make voudoun deities more closer to their worshippers, having flaws like us rather than some distant unknowable force.

Santeria is very much of an animistic one, focusing on spirits and ghosts. In Latin America, many of the divines were replaced by the catholic saints. There are some who don't do this, but they are in the minority, with prayers in Santeria calling out Santa Maria (Mother Mary) more than anything.

My grandmother and great grandmother were both practitioners, and I've learned some stuff from them. Both considered themselves Christian so the whole "theres no mingling" is ignorant.

But why? I'm sure it's very educational.

Thank you so much! Yes, from what I have learned so far, most practitioners of Voodoo and Santeria identify themselves as Christian or Catholic.

I think I would be terrified to participate in a ritual where I could be possessed. But what you said is exactly what is stated in this book my this Mambo. Anyone participating in the ceremony can be possessed. She says no one is ever hurt during these rituals. Even when tw spirit does things on the person's body that would normally injure a person.

Do you know if the possession thing is part of Santeria as well?

I learned a lot last night having wine and snacks with a long time practitioner of Santeria. She isn't a Santera as there are some very demanding things one must do to complete the initiation. Including wearing white for a whole year and long periods of seclusion. Not to mention trying to find the....I can't remember what they're called so I'll call them the big wigs (meant respectfully) locally who can make one a Santera. It's kind of like becoming a Catholic Priest. You have to have a Catholic Bishop to make you a priest.

But, she does pretty much everything a Santera would do and I learned how to practice by yourself. She also said Mexican Santeria was something to stay away from because black magic was a big part of their practice. From the little contact I've had, I think that might be true.

Anyway, it was very interesting and I understand/identify with it much more than Voudou. They may have the same roots, but they definitely have their differences now.

I've been working on this sort of epic fantasy about a Superhero based in Orisha.

I had to work up the nerve to post it. I want to erase all the crap that Hollywood's done to our traditions and beliefs. If you wouldn't mind a read.

Check it Out........title: I AM SUPERCEDE!

I believe their called Misas in Santeria. Same scenario.

Where is it?

Thank you!

Sorry,
I posted it in the Poems and Creative Writing Community