by Abelardo de la Peña Jr.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
- Followers of La Santa Muerte (Saint Death), a female grim reaper worshiped by Mexicans whose lives are filled with danger or violence, congregate in a East Hollywood, CA storefront.
- Templo Santa Muerte is foremost a retail establishment where statues, fountains, books, candles, incense and other products bearing her visage are sold (Iconoculture observation 9.28.08).
- On Saturdays, the shop is transformed into a place of worship as Professor SysiphuS, self-identified as Santa Muerte’s godson, and goddaughter Professor Sahara lead their congregants in prayer and testimonials to the saint’s power. Can’t make the commute? The mass is broadcast online.
- Coming soon: Online classes on candle reading, cleansing and healing.
WHAT THIS MEANS TO BUSINESS
- For Latinos living on the edge of desperation due to financial, spiritual or social hardship, finding solace in a dark force with saintly trappings is a viable alternative.
- Even cults take advantage of technology to spread the word and push product.
RESOURCES
