Ìbà Ìyá wa, Àwọn Ìyá Àgbà. Ìbà àwọn tí ń ṣọ́ ìwòntúnwonsì ayé. Ẹ fi ọgbọ́n sí ọkàn wa. Ẹ fi ìwà pẹ̀lẹ́ sí ọkàn wa. Ẹ jẹ́ kí a má ṣe lo agbára ní ònà búburú. Ẹ tọ́ wa sí òtítọ́, ìfẹ́, àti ìwà rere. Kí ayé wa ní àlàáfíà àti ìbùkún. Àṣẹ. English Translation Homage to our Mothers, the Great Mothers. Homage to those who watch over the balance of the world. Place wisdom within our hearts. Place gentle and noble character within us. May we never use power for harmful purposes. Guide us toward truth, love, and good character. May our lives be filled with peace and blessings. Aṣẹ.

Understanding Egungun: The Living Presence of the Ancestors Egungun (Egun) is a Yoruba term meaning “ancestor” or “the collective ancestral spirits.” In traditional Yoruba spirituality, death is not viewed as an ending but as a transition from the visible world into the ancestral realm. The Egungun represent: - Family ancestors - Community ancestors - Spiritual elders - Protectors of the lineage - Custodians of wisdom and tradition The Yoruba teach that those who lived honorable lives may become revered ancestors who continue to guide and bless their descendants.

How They Choose Messengers for Missions • Signs Before Birth: Some messengers are chosen before they are even born — marked by birth conditions, dreams, or family prophecy. • Life Tests: The chosen ones face unusual challenges, spiritual initiations, and trials that sharpen their character. • Spiritual Marks: The councils recognize messengers by their spiritual light, resilience, and ability to see and hear beyond the physical. • Ancestral Claiming: At a certain point, the ancestors “claim” the messenger, often through visions, spirit visitations, or ceremonies. • Assignment Delivery: Missions are often given in dreams, divination, or direct spiritual encounters — like what you’ve experienced yourself.

Spiritual Reflection “The Ancestors Walk Ahead of Us” In many African traditions, we do not believe that life is walked alone. The elders say that the living walk between two worlds — the world of the visible and the world of the ancestors. The ancestors are not simply the dead. They are the memory of the people, the protectors of destiny, and the guardians of truth. When life becomes confusing, heavy, or uncertain, it is often because we have moved too far away from the wisdom that already walks with us. The African way teaches three simple spiritual laws: • Remember who you come from – your blood carries the story of many victories. • Honor the elders and the spirits of the land – respect opens the doors of blessing. • Walk with good character – destiny listens to the footsteps of those who move with integrity. The ancestors do not shout. They whisper through dreams, intuition, sudden insight, and quiet knowing. So this week ask yourself: What message might my ancestors be trying to show me? Light a candle. Speak their names. Sit quietly and listen. Sometimes the greatest guidance is not something new — it is something ancient returning to you. A person without ancestors is like a tree without roots.”

Ase family! Is a class pending under this title? 🙏🏿