On May 25, 2024, Renata Oliveira celebrated a significant milestone in her spiritual journey within the Candomblé Jeje Nation: her 7-year obligation. This rite is deeply rooted in our tradition and symbolizes a period of renewal and reaffirmation of commitment to our orixá. The ceremony reflected the strength Renata has found over the years, especially after facing challenges that tested her resilience and faith.
A journey of faith and resilience
Renata arrived at the temple led by Charles de Lissá in 2003, seeking spiritual guidance during a time of uncertainty in her life. Pregnant and in need of direction, she initially resisted the idea of deepening her commitments to Candomblé. However, in 2010, she felt the call of Oyá for her initiation. Despite her fear and hesitation, the constant support of Doté Charles de Lissá strengthened her, helping her overcome her doubts. In 2013, Renata was reborn to Oyá, beginning a new phase of devotion and unconditional love for her spiritual home, Kwe Sejá Lissá Orogi, and her orixá.
Highlight Moments of the Celebration.
The 7-year ceremony was marked by emotional moments, especially the offering of the tray, which symbolizes Renata's renewal of her commitment to Oyá and an immense responsibility. This act is a testament to the strength she has found in Oyá, a strength that Renata describes as akin to that of a buffalo, relentless and determined.
Significant Presences
During the event, several key individuals stood by Renata, reflecting the support and significance of her spiritual journey. Among them were Hunso Rogéria, Temim Thaiza de Agué, Doné Guinha de Oyá, her orunkó godfather Mácio de Onira, and Doté Charles de Lissá. These figures played crucial roles in Renata's spiritual development, and their presence at the ceremony was a reminder of the collective impact and community that sustains Candomblé Jeje.
The Importance of Details and Symbols
The event was also marked by symbolic elements that carry great significance for Renata. With the distribution of acarajé, the mariô in Oyá's hands—an important adornment—was present, ensuring that no significant detail was overlooked. These symbols are more than mere decorations; they are tangible representations of the faith and spiritual journey that Renata has traveled.
As a witness and afro-documentarian, I see with each new ceremony the depth of Oyá's archetype and its impact on the lives of her daughters. Oyá, with her tempestuous strength, teaches each of them to overcome obstacles with the courage of a warrior and the determination of a buffalo. It is no coincidence that in her spiritual journey, Renata found in Oyá’s energy the strength needed to overcome her personal battles. This 7-year ceremony was not just a rite of passage; it was a celebration of resilience and renewal. May Renata's example inspire other daughters of Oyá to embrace the strength they carry within, knowing that, just like Oyá’s winds, they can transform everything around them.
As an afro-documentarian committed to preserving Afro-Brazilian culture, my goal is to rescue and tangibly record the religious activities that take place within the terreiros over the years. To achieve this, we are revisiting the old candomblés we have previously documented in our company, diving back into these traditions to build a journalistic body of afro-documentation. Through a careful and respectful lens, we aim to document every detail of these celebrations, which are crucial for maintaining the tradition and identity of Afro-religious communities. This work seeks to immortalize these practices and ensure that the richness of African-based religions is recognized and preserved for future generations.
By Rômulo Corleone
Visual Artist, Photographer, and Afro-Documentary Journalist.
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