Yemayá

In the Lucumi faith, every person is ordained to a certain Orisha, or guardian angel. This is based on the person’s characteristic traits. There are many different Orishas in the religion and are all derived from saints worshipped in Catholicism. In order to know whom your guardian angel is you must visit a Babalawo. Babalawo’s are known as the priests of the Lucumi faith. They are considered the divine messengers of God and practice a similar yet more complex belief system called Ifa. Once an individual has gone through the proper initiation ceremony they become an Aleyo, or a worshiper and practitioner of Santería.

            There are different ranks in Santería. It is a religious hierarchy that was created centuries ago from African American slaves that were sent to Cuba. Cuba is considered to be the birthplace of this religion and is the highest in number of worshipers. Although Santería is widely known throughout the world, many people consider it taboo and chose not to speak of it. It is largely critiqued and very much misunderstood. Practitioners are criticized for being unfaithful to God and are labeled as ‘devil worshipers’ and accused of ‘casting black magic’. The truth is, this is one of the most beautiful religions out there. It focuses on spiritual awareness and helping people find guidance from above.

            On November 8, 2011 I traveled to Cuba with my godmother from Puerto Rico. I had been practicing the Lucumi faith for over four years and decided that it was time to take it to the next level. On November 11, 2011 (11/11/11) I was crowned the Orisha Yemayá. Known as a mother by excellence, this Orisha is female and is considered to be the mother of everything living and breathing in the world. I believe I was placed on this path for a reason. Yemayá has come to fix all that is physically and mentally wrong. I am proud to call myself a Santero!

Links:

http://santeriachurch.org/the-orishas/yemaya/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santer%C3%ADa