Santería / Lukumí Spiritual Work – Espiritismo Bóveda: How to Work With Ancestors in Santería Lucumí
Our bóveda at the Santeria Church of the Orishas where we work with our Ancestors through Espiritismo Cruzado. There are several ways of working with your ancestors within Santería Lucumí. In a previous article we discussed how to work with Ancestors (Egun) through the Traditional Lucumí Ancestral Shrine (opá ikú). In this article we’ll present
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Our bóveda at the Santeria Church of the Orishas, where we honor Ancestors through Espiritismo Cruzado.
In Santería Lucumí, there are many ways to honor and work with your ancestors. Traditionally, this is done
through the Lucumí Ancestral Shrine (opá ikú). But another very common method comes from the practice of
Espiritismo Cruzado (Blended Spiritism), which was integrated into Santería in the mid-1900s.
This system blends Catholic, Spiritist, and African elements—particularly from the Congo tradition—offering
a wider framework to connect with both blood ancestors and spiritual guides.
Understanding Ancestors in Espiritismo
- Egun: Ancestors by blood or initiation within the Lucumí tradition.
- Ará Orún: “Citizens of heaven,” which include elevated guides, protectors, and masters.
Espiritismo Cruzado expands the scope of ancestral veneration beyond just Egun, helping practitioners work with
a wider spiritual court. Its main goal is spiritual evolution—both for the living and for spirits
who may be trapped, burdened, or unsettled. Through prayer, offerings of light, and communication, Espiritistas
guide these spirits toward elevation while also receiving protection, guidance, and empowerment in return.
The Bóveda – Espiritismo’s Altar
At the center of Espiritismo practice is the bóveda, a sacred space for spiritual communication.
It is usually a table or dresser covered with a white cloth, arranged with:
- 7 glasses of water (sometimes 9 in other lineages)
- A larger central glass representing spiritual consciousness and the Spirit Guardian
- A crucifix, images of saints, candles, flowers, or statues of guiding spirits
Anyone, regardless of initiation, can set up a bóveda. It serves as a personal altar for connecting with one’s
spiritual court without the need of priestly intervention.
Statues depicting Indian and Congo spirits, along with fans for Gypsy spirits,
adorn this bóveda with a glass of water, candle, and crystal ball.
How to Work With Ancestors at the Bóveda
- Light a white candle as an offering to your spirits.
- Cleanse yourself with a spiritual cologne such as Florida Water or Colonia 1800, flicking away negativity toward the bóveda.
- Pray—common choices include the Lord’s Prayer, Hail Mary, and Glory Be.
- Burn incense like frankincense, myrrh, or Three Kings to invite clarity and blessings.
- Knock three times on the bóveda to greet the spirits and then speak openly with them about your concerns or needs.
Messages from your spirits may come through inner thoughts, visions, sensations, or even scents.
Take time to listen and ask clarifying questions if needed. Close your session with prayers of gratitude
and three knocks on the bóveda. Offerings should remain spiritual in nature—prayers, candles, light, incense,
and flowers. (Some use cigar smoke as a special offering, but it is optional.)
Strengthening Your Ancestor Connection
Combining Espiritismo bóveda practices with traditional Lucumí ancestral rites creates a strong,
well-rounded relationship with your ancestors. By tending both, you ensure continuous support, guidance,
and blessings on your spiritual journey.
