Journeys to the spiritual lands

By Wallace W. Zane

Book Description

In the Caribbean island of St. Vincent, a remarkable spiritual tradition thrives among the Spiritual Baptists, known locally as the "Converted." Wallace W. Zane takes readers into this extraordinary world where believers regularly embark on mystical journeys to spiritual realms, performing sacred work through ecstatic experiences for their entire community.

What makes this religious practice so fascinating is its unique blend of shamanic elements with deeply rooted Christian fundamentalism. Every spiritual journey and ritual act finds its foundation in biblical scripture, creating a distinctive form of faith that bridges ancient spiritual practices with contemporary Christian belief.

Through fourteen months of immersive fieldwork both on St. Vincent and among Vincentian communities in Brooklyn, Zane offers an intimate portrait of a living tradition. His detailed examination reveals how this form of spiritual travel operates as a cornerstone of religious life, requiring all believers to participate in otherworldly journeys that serve their community's spiritual needs.

This compelling study illuminates a possibly unique form of shamanism that has flourished within the African diaspora. Zane's careful analysis and vivid accounts provide readers with profound insights into how spiritual communities create meaning through ecstatic religious experiences while maintaining strong connections to biblical tradition.

For those interested in exploring diverse spiritual practices and understanding how communities blend mystical experiences with established religious frameworks, this work offers valuable perspectives on faith, community, and transcendent experience.