involved in their
church as it helps them maintain their cultural identity. On any given day,
groups of people singing hymns can also be heard throughout the streets.
Thought to be brought over by African slaves and developed over time, the word
Voudou is derived from an African word meaning spirit. It is the most widely
practiced religion and is considered the official religion of Haiti. Although a
few devout Catholics denounce it, the majority of Haitians practice both
religions simultaneously. Because of this Voudou is often resorted to for
explaining illness. Voudou is more strongly rooted in the rural areas, and this
population is more reluctant to accept Western medicine.
