syncretic religions that blend elements of African spiritual practices with Catholicism. These religions are practiced in the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba, Haiti, and other countries with a significant Afro-Caribbean population. Santeria and vodou involve the worship of various spirits, deities, and ancestors, as well as the use of rituals, ceremonies, and offerings to communicate with and appease these beings. Both religions also incorporate elements of Christian saints and symbols, reflecting the blending of African and Catholic beliefs that occurred during the colonial period.
