It has a single God known as "Bondye," Creole for "Good God," and more than 1,000 spirits known as the lwa — some that aren't always benevolent. During Vodou ceremonies, lwa are offered treats ranging from papayas and coffee to popcorn, lollipops and cheese puffs. Vodou is attracting more believers given the surge in gang violence and government inaction, said Cecil Elien Isac, a fourth-generation oungan. "Until the 1920s, Haitian Vodou was generally regarded as a string of superstitions, witchcraft and ritual cannibalism," Clorméus wrote. It's unknown how many people currently practice Vodou in Haiti, but there's a popular saying: "Haiti is 70% Catholic, 30% Protestant and 100% Vodou."

Source: Ethiopian News May 11, 2024 19:06 UTC