Baron La Kwa
From Association of Independent Readers and Rootworkers
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Baron La Kwa also spelled Baron La Croix and Baron Lakwa is one of the Barons who rules the Ghede nation, though like the other barons he is not a Ghede himself. He is a lwa of death. He presents as very sophisticated, wise, and cultured.
Baron La Kwa is the cross in the cemetery and is the first man buried in a cemetery and its heart and therefore the ruler of the cemetery. His personality is sophisticated with a sense of humor. He teaches to see the humor in all things and to enjoy life as it is. He delights in life with all its aspects, accepting the absurd and humor in all things for everyone regardless of their experiences and backgrounds will have the unifying experience of death. When he arrives in Voodoo ceremonies and mounts he likes wearing top hats, dark-glasses, and canes. He expresess his sense of humor and reminds people of their own sense of humor even in the most difficult of times. Because of this, he is the lwa that teaches a great deal about seizing life and living well, even though he is a lwa of death. His name La Kwa comes from La Croix which is French for "Baron of the Cross." He rules over all ceremonies done in the cemetery. He takes offerings of cigars, rum, and candles.
In Catholic syncretic Voodoo practices, Baron La Kwa is venerated on All Soul's Day, November 2nd, a date that corresponds with the Pagan and Neo-Pagan festival of Samhain, which also commemorates the dead.
Hoodoo psychic readers, spirit workers, and root doctors who are adherents of the Voodoo Religion and who petition the lwa on behalf of clients may work in with Baron La Kwa in a graveyard for success in life and healing.
