Founders
National African Religion Congress
In Memoriam: Gro Mambo Angélá Noványón Idizol Iya Abiye Ogun Agbaye (1953 – 2022)
In Memoriam: Gro Mambo Angélá Noványón Idizol Iya Abiye Ogun Agbaye (1953 – 2022)
In the sacred realm of African spirituality, Gro Mambo Angélá Noványón Idizol, a pioneering High Priestess of the Voodoo religion, transcended earthly boundaries and blazed a trail that resonates nationally and internationally. As we remember her profound contributions, we honor her as the cherished Founder Emeritus of the National African Religion Congress/ NARC World International.
Trailblazing Spiritual Leader: In 1977, Gro Mambo Angélá embarked on a sacred journey by founding Le Peristyle Haitian Sanctuary in Philadelphia, PA. In 1982 her visionary leadership extended beyond borders, incorporating Le Peristyle as a 501(c)(3) church—the first church of Voodoo, or Humofor, to achieve such status. In Mariani, Haiti, she directed Le Peristyle Sanctuary, preserving the sacred legacy entrusted to her by her late godfather, Gro Houngan Hilaire Michel.
Global Reverberations: Gro Mambo Angélá's impact echoed across continents. In Sao Paulo, Brazil, she erected the first Voodoo sanctuary, recognized by government officials who celebrated the occasion by hanging marquees over the shrines, marking a historic moment in the country's post-slavery era.
Pioneering Public Voodoo Ceremonies: Continuing her legacy of innovation, Gro Mambo Angélá orchestrated the first public Voodoo ceremonies in the United States. The Afro-American Historical and Cultural Museum and Congo Square in New Orleans, LA, bore witness to these groundbreaking events, reviving the spirit of Haitian Voodoo ceremonies for the first time since the era of Marie Laveau. The city of New Orleans paid tribute to her monumental contributions by declaring Gro Mambo an honorary citizen, immortalizing the dates of these ceremonies as holidays. To this day, June 6, 1998, remains New Orleans Festival Day—a testament to her indelible mark on the city's cultural tapestry.
Founding Visionary of NARC World: As the visionary Founder of the National African Religion Congress/ NARC World International, Gro Mambo Angélá introduced a groundbreaking certification system for priests, priestesses, Babalawos, and practitioners of African-based religions. Her commitment extended to serving on the certifying board, contributing to the global recognition and validation of spiritual leaders.
Guardian of Tradition and Legal Advocate: Gro Mambo Angélá's profound knowledge and dedication to her craft were not confined to spiritual realms alone. Recognized as an expert witness, she lent her expertise to judicial syste
Continuing the Legacy:
Gro Houngan Yatandé Noványón Idizol Chief Mayegun Isese Agbaye
NARC Chairperson
In the luminous footsteps of the esteemed Gro Mambo Angélá Noványón Idizol, Gro Houngan Yatandé Noványón Idizol has been an integral part of the foundational journey of the National African Religion Congress. A devoted Voodoo High Priest and an esteemed collaborator with the late Gro Mambo Angélá, Gro Houngan Yatandé has tirelessly worked towards upholding and expanding the legacy of African spirituality.
Early Collaborations and Spiritual Beginnings: Gro Houngan Yatandé's journey intertwines seamlessly with the origins of the National African Religion Congress (NARC). Having collaborated with Gro Mambo Angélá from the inception of the organization, he was an instrumental force in its growth. Together, they championed the cause of certifying priests and priestesses of African-based religions globally, marking a transformative era in the spiritual landscape.
Le Peristyle Haitian Sanctuary: Having worked closely with Gro Mambo Angélá at Le Peristyle Haitian Sanctuary, Gro Houngan Yatandé shares a deep connection to the sanctuary's roots. Established in 1977, the sanctuary became a cornerstone of Voodoo practice, fostering spiritual growth and community engagement.
Educational and Spiritual Endeavors: Gro Houngan Yatandé brings a wealth of experience, with 43 years of concentrated training and service. His role as a High Priest at Le Peristyle Haitian Sanctuary reflects a dedication to spiritual education, divination, and herbal studies. His commitment extends beyond the spiritual realm to include counseling for families, marriages, and combat disorders, mirroring the holistic approach that was embraced by Gro Mambo Angélá.
Global Presence and Engagements: Much like Gro Mambo Angélá, Gro Houngan Yatandé has contributed to global dialogues on African spirituality. With engagements in conferences and events worldwide, he has continued the mission of bringing awareness and understanding of the rich tapestry of African-based religions.
Nurturing the Certification System: As an inheritor of Gro Mambo Angélá's vision, Gro Houngan Yatandé has played a pivotal role in nurturing and expanding the certification system introduced by Gro Mambo Angélá at NARC World International. Their collective efforts have paved the way for acknowledging the expertise of priests, priestesses, Babalawos, and practitioners of African-based religions.
Expertise in Traditional Practices: Just as Gro Mambo Angélá served as an expert witness, Gro Houngan Yatandé is continuing this legacy by providing insights into traditional practices for judicial systems. His expertise ensures a nuanced understanding of the spiritual dimensions that traditional practices encompass.
In the spirit of collaboration and dedication to the cause, Gro Houngan Yatandé Noványón, Idizol, stands as a torchbearer, continuing to uphold and expand the profound legacy initiated by the late Gro Mambo Angélá Noványón Idizol.
The 40-Year Saga
National African Religion Congress
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