Serving the Spirits: The Religion of Haitian Vodou, Paperback

Description

A healing and balanced faith, Haitian Vodou is a member of the African Traditional Religions that came into the Western Hemisphere via the Transatlantic slave trade. Despite a much misunderstood image, Vodou gives its practitioners the tools to understand the world around them. By participating in an annual calendar of observances, rituals and services, servitors can engage with the Vodou "Mysteries," thereby enlisting their aid in helping lead a balanced life. Manbo Vye Zo uses her own story of becoming manbo or mother of the spirits as a stepping stone for her students and godchildren so they can learn by her example. An educational text as well as story, Manbo helps the reader gain a greater understanding of the faith as she leads us ever deeper into unexplored territory. Come experience the world of Haitian Vodou from an insider's perspective, and leave forever changed in your outlook on the world of Vodou.

About the author

Patricia Scheu (Mambo Vye Zo Komande LaMenfo) studied art and graphic design at the University of Connecticut and is an award winning media producer. A love of Haitian artwork led her to Jacmel, Haiti where she was ordained in 2003 as a Mambo Asogwe or "mother of the spirits." She and her husband currently lead Sosyete du Marche, Inc., a federally recognized 501c3 Vodou church in Pennsylvania, whose initiative is charity, education and service. Mambo tirelessly promotes the Vodou faith through educational classes; public speaking at universities and organizations; hosting ceremony for the greater Philadelphia congregation. Mambo Vye Zo and the Sosyete du Marche members serve the spirits monthly at their temple in Philadelphia, PA. They also host seminars, services and lectures at universities, colleges and public events all across the Delaware Valley on topics such as Haiti, women in spirituality and Haitian Vodou. Mambo Vye Zo's story and artwork can be seen on the sosyete's website at www.sosyetedumarche.co m.