Papa Candelo Statue 12"

Papa Candelo is a powerful and well-known lwa, or loa. His origins are said to lie in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, but his influence has spread throughout the Caribbean and the continental United States. In Santería, a syncretic Afro-Caribbean-Catholic religion, Papa Candelo is known as Martín de Porres. He is an intelligent and fiery spirit who aspires to be respected.

Papa Candelo may have originated as a folk hero. According to legend, he was an enslaved African before becoming a deity. He was never fully human in other incarnations. Instead, he was a strong spirit who took human form to impart spiritual wisdom and inspiration to those around him. Whether he was once a man or has always been a strong spirit, Papa Candelo now exists as a strong and energetic loa who enjoys dice games, cockfighting, dancing, and fireworks. Papa Candelo can help with any difficulty, but his specialty is bringing luck to those involved in business, money, and other arenas. This spirit is called upon to aid those in need. He can be called upon to burn away anything undesirable, as he is a deity associated with fire. When it comes to undoing spells, uncrossing, and purifying rituals, he is the perfect spirit to invoke. He is also good at combating illness.

Belie Belcan, his friend and companion, is a deity who protects humans from adversaries, injustice, and evil. Belie Belcan is syncretized with Archangel Michael (Archangel Michael is also invoked for protection against fire). This demonstrates the balanced impact between Papa Candelo and Belie Belcan and explains why they are often recognized as a couple.

Papa Candelo is a fire spirit. He, like fire, can be severe or vibrant, punishing or welcoming. He demands respect and tradition, but he is also humble. Papa Candelo is not a loa to be trifled with. Like fire, he demands knowledge, prudence, and the same respect as a living flame.