Voodoo rituals

In a ritual the loa are called down by the houngan (priest), mambo (priestess), or bokor (sorcerers) to take part in the service, receive offerings, and grant requests.

The loa arrive in the peristyle (ritual space) by mounting (possessing) a horse (ritualist) in Creole referred as "Chwal" - who is said to be "ridden".

This can be quite a violent occurrence as the participant can flail about or convulse before falling to the ground, but some loa, such as Ayizan, will mount their "horses" very quietly.

Certain loa display very distinctive behaviour by which they can be recognized, specific phrases, and specific actions.

As soon as a loa is recognized, the symbols appropriate to them will be given to them. For example, Erzulie Freda will be given a glass of pink champagne,she is sprinkled with her perfumes, fine gifts of food will be presented to her or she even puts on her jewelry; Legba will be given his cane, straw hat, and pipe;

Baron Samedi will often fall flat on the floor and the vodousants around him will dress him and prepare him as they do in a morgue with cotton in his nose.

Once the loa have arrived, fed, been served, and possibly given help or advice, they leave the peristyle.

Certain loa can become obstinate, for example the Ghede are notorious for wanting just one more smoke, or one more drink, but it is the job of the houngan or mambo to keep the spirits in line while ensuring they are adequately provided for.

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