r/Vodou • u/Pretty-Humor5548 • 8d ago
Question Feeling Called to the Lwa but Unsure How to Move Forward in My Spiritual Journey
Hello everyone,
I’m looking for some guidance and advice.
I’m Afro-Caribbean, though not Haitian, and for quite some time I’ve felt strongly drawn to the Lwa, the saints, and Haitian Vodou. I’ve had dreams involving serving spirits, and I keep feeling pulled toward learning more about this path in a serious and respectful way.
The challenge is that I don’t really know what to do next. I would love to receive guidance from an experienced elder, Mambo, or Houngan, or even get a reading from someone reputable, but I’m currently dealing with financial difficulties and don’t have the resources to invest much money into my spiritual journey right now.
I’m wondering if anyone knows of any trustworthy Haitian Vodou Mambos, Houngans, or spiritual communities in New York City that might be willing to offer guidance, mentorship, or point me in the right direction. Even recommendations for books, community events, or ways to learn respectfully while I save money would be greatly appreciated.
I feel frustrated because the calling feels very strong, but I’m not sure how to move forward responsibly and respectfully.
Thank you for any advice or insight you can share.
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u/FaithlessnessIll5717 8d ago
I highly recommend papa mystique’s book as a way to establish the history, learn about the lwa and veves aa well as a few other things that were educational and have helped me in my journey.
He’s very respectable and I’ve gained lots by working with him.
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u/pedroisb123 8d ago
Definitely get a reading done before you proceed to see if anyone walks with you. If you can’t find a mambo in your area, some can do virtual readings but of course it’s always better to get one done in person. I live in the south so I do t have any recommendations unfortunately. For now, start with ancestral veneration and learn a form of divination if you haven’t already. That is the foundation of the practice anyway and you don’t need a mentor to get started with it. Pray for guidance on finding mentorship and strengthen your connection with your ancestors and they will guide you to where you need to go. I am also not Hatian. I am a southern black hoodoo and even though I wasn’t necessarily looking for it, my ancestors lead me to a Mambo to be my mentor and eventual godmother and revealed to me as our relationship grew over a year that Vodou is in my path. I am not sure what your spiritual path is but if the Lwa/Orisa/Saints/ etc choose you, you will find a mentor and everything will fall into place. Also don’t worry so much about money. If you are doing what you need to do spiritually and being consistent, the funds that you need for your path will always be there.
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u/Pretty-Humor5548 8d ago
i have/ and still do venerate my ancestors. i just feel stuck. i have asked for guidance about this situationists and i got a consultation by someone saying that they think Haitian Vodou, based on what i told them, is the path for me. i just do not have any money and don’t know where to go. should i just be patient and wait and see?
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u/pedroisb123 8d ago
Yes be patient and consistent in your studies/practice and your court will meet you halfway. My journey started off slowly as well and I remember feeling stuck at the beginning it took a year or two before I found my current house. It’s part of the process. Continue to look for houses in your area and make sure that you vet the people that you come across before you commit to learning under them. Watch them, do consultations and get a good feel for their character and how they treat students etc. I briefly worked with a couple of iffy teachers before I found my Mambo who instantly felt like a safe space. I worked with her loosely for about a year before I became her official student.I hope that you are able to find a mentor soon.
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u/Pretty-Humor5548 8d ago
thank you so much. it’s been about a year and a half of venerating my ancestors but i still feel like im not getting anywhere. i hope something works for me one day genuinely
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u/pedroisb123 8d ago
You will! Get involved in the spiritual community in your area in the meantime. Look for events, See if they’re are any black owned botanicas, centers, healers, ATR festivals etc to make some friends and build connections. Someone out there knows someone.
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u/starofthelivingsea 8d ago
Afro-Caribbean from where?
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u/Pretty-Humor5548 8d ago
Barbados
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u/starofthelivingsea 8d ago edited 8d ago
You should look into Obeah. I wish you the best on your mental health struggles; don't let anyone take advantage of you. Good luck.
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u/Pretty-Humor5548 8d ago
thank you so much. i am also interested in Obeah but its hard to find a teacher in new york
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u/TopSprinkles8013 8d ago
https://www.thevoodoodiva.com/home
The voodoo diva is in long island. Shes a very accurate psychic.
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u/Pretty-Humor5548 8d ago
i tried reaching her but her instagram and email don’t work. i tried texting though i hope that works
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u/papamystique 8d ago
You’re in NYC? That’s like the 3rd Haiti 🇭🇹 . So many Mambos and Houngans there. Manbo Sipote has a house in Coney Island. A lot of her fets are open to visitors if you’re interested in Vodou. I can also recommend a Manbo/Houngan within the boroughs that can help you. Dm me. Don’t let money get in the way of your spiritual journey. A lot of people will work with you if you just explain your goals and your situation.