Mediumship development and spiritual assistance during sessions

Our approach to mediumship development

At Centre Spirite Oxóssi Caçador – CSOC ASBL, mediumship development is rooted in the Afro-Brazilian spiritual traditions connected with Candomblé and Umbanda. Our approach is not a conventional theoretical course in mediumship: learning develops gradually through experience, regular practice and participation in sessions and giras.

Every person is different, every medium has their own sensitivity, and each person progresses at their own pace. Our role is to accompany this journey within a structured framework that respects our traditions and the balance of the house.

A first visit to discover our approach

Anyone interested in our work may come for a first visit to discover the house and attend a session. This first meeting allows visitors to understand concretely how we work, discover how a gira unfolds and feel whether this approach corresponds to what they are looking for.

No previous experience of mediumship is required. If a person then wishes to continue their development within the house, the way the group functions and the rules for taking part in sessions are explained progressively, including the wearing of white clothing.

This first meeting does not commit the person to joining the Centre, nor does it oblige the Centre to integrate the person into the group. It allows both sides to get to know one another and determine whether our approach and spiritual path correspond to their expectations.

Learning and developing through the giras

Mediumship development takes place mainly through regular participation in sessions. Chants, rhythms, dances and ritual movements play an important role in our giras. Within this practice, the medium gradually learns to sense the approach of their spiritual guides and to develop their capacity for incorporation.

Different spiritual lines may be called during our work. A medium may work with Caboclos, Pretos Velhos, Boiadeiros, Erês, Exus and Pombas Giras, as well as other entities according to the course of the sessions and each person's individual path.

Some mediums may also incorporate their Orixá. This is not systematic, however, and development never manifests in exactly the same way for everyone.

Each medium has their own path

We believe that mediumship development cannot be identical for everyone. Through regular practice, the medium gradually learns to recognise their sensations and the approach of their own spiritual guides. A relationship develops over time, and these guides also help orient the medium along their path.

Each person can gradually discover their own abilities and develop a particular sensitivity. Some mediums may be more oriented towards incorporation, while others may develop particular forms of perception, communication or spiritual insight, according to their abilities and the guidance of their spiritual guides.

The traditional divinatory supports used in our practice include cowrie shells (búzios), and obís. Learning to use them is not part of basic mediumship development; it takes place within the initiatory path and cycle.

Teaching and guidance

Teachings are transmitted under the responsibility of Pai Agnè, either directly or through the spiritual entities who work through his incorporation, notably Guaraciaba and Exu Pimenta.

Development is also supported by initiated and experienced mediums of the house, who help transmit their knowledge and experience. Learning therefore develops gradually within the group through practice, observation, received teachings and lived experience during the different sessions.

From mediumship development to the initiatory path

Developing mediumship and being initiated into Candomblé are two different things. A person may participate in giras and develop their mediumship without immediately entering an initiatory path.

However, during their journey, a medium may feel or receive the call of an Orixá and may then be led towards a much deeper initiatory path. This path unfolds over time and includes different stages. Depending on each person's journey, the initiatory cycle may continue for many years, including a period that can extend from 7 to 12 years.

Sessions as a space for spiritual assistance

Our sessions are not intended solely for the development of mediums. They also aim to welcome and accompany people seeking help, a listening ear, orientation or spiritual guidance.

During the giras, visitors may receive spiritual passes, particularly through the work of Caboclos and Pretos Velhos. According to our tradition, these passes contribute to cleansing and rebalancing the person and aim to help release burdens and negative influences accumulated in daily life and through contact with different places and environments.

Work may also be carried out around the Ori, the person's spiritual head, in order to seek balance and strengthening. In our tradition, Ori holds a fundamental place. It is linked, among other things, to consciousness, destiny and the reception of knowledge. It is also closely connected to the circulation of Axé, the vital and spiritual force present in living beings and in all things.

Receiving guidance from the entities

Visitors may also speak with incorporated entities during sessions. They may share their concerns and ask questions about the different situations they encounter in life.

According to their line of work and knowledge, the different entities may offer listening, advice and spiritual guidance. This encounter can provide each person with orientation suited to their situation and, when necessary, direct them towards a particular spiritual work.

Ebós and the intervention of the Orixás

In certain situations, an ebó—that is, a ritual work or offering—may be indicated. Through such work, the intervention of one or more Orixás may be requested according to the nature of the situation.

An ebó may be carried out to seek rebalancing, request the opening of a path, overcome an obstacle or accompany the resolution of a difficulty. The possibilities are many and always depend on the person's situation and the spiritual orientation received.

Spiritual assistance and the path of healing

Health and well-being may also be among the concerns addressed through the spiritual work of the house. Different entities may accompany a person along a path of healing according to their knowledge, field of action and the nature of the problem encountered.

Some Exus carry out important work of assistance in this area. In our tradition and experience, Exu should not be reduced solely to the idea of opening paths. His action may also deeply affect the human being, their balance, body and Ori. It is sometimes said that every Exu can be a healer, whether helping what affects the body or what touches the head and the person's spiritual balance.

The Orixás may also be called upon depending on the situation. Among them, Obaluaiê holds a particularly important place in requests related to illness, transformation and healing, without being the only one who may intervene in spiritual work intended to help a person.

These practices form part of our spiritual and religious understanding of accompaniment. They never replace a medical diagnosis, treatment or follow-up by a healthcare professional.

A path that is built over time

Whether a person comes to the Centre to discover their mediumship, develop their abilities, receive guidance or simply seek spiritual assistance, our approach is based above all on respect, transmission, regularity and lived experience.

We do not promise to develop mediumship in a few sessions, and we believe that every person has their own path. For those who wish to become mediums within our house, this path develops gradually through contact with the giras, teachings, Orixás, spiritual entities and their own guides.

For those who come simply seeking assistance, our doors are also open so that, with respect for our traditions, they may receive the listening and spiritual guidance they may need.