Rites of Passage

[abena_Baakan]

I am a mother of 3 girls and have begun preparing with my sister from my rites for our eldest daughters puberty rites initiation. We have established the curriculum but, I am having difficulty gathering info regarding rituals. We want this to be a multi-cultural endeavor because I am initiated in the Akan and the Palo tradition while my sister follows the Yoruba faith. Do you know of any resources that would be helpful?

[maat_free]

Queen i am in the same quandry. I am probably going to just call in the experts, but...our event is for the "african centered" (using the term very loosely) day school in my city and we have to get the girls ready for the ceremony on june 1st. They have been supposedly doing rites of passage work all year, but if you ask me, there are more challenges than victories. Anyway, let me know what you have come up with thus far and i will do the same. Medase!

[olufemi_baina_ayo]

Asomdwee Fie, Shrine of the Abosom and Nsamanfo, Inc. (AFSANI)

http://www.afsani.org/institute.htm

The AFSANI INSTITUTE is the educational arm of Asomdwee Fie, Shrine of the Abosom and Nsamanfo, International (AFSANI). AFSANI is a non-profit, faith-based community organization whose focus is to promote Akan culture, religion and traditional values. The organization fosters unique opportunities for the consistent practice of spirituality, religion and culture in the ancient Akan tradition.

AFSANI INSTITUTE'S workshops, seminars, classes and training are presented by knowledgeable individuals who are continental Ghanaians, and those Ghanaians who were born in the Diaspora and who are practicing and studying the culture and religion. They are all well-qualified and experienced lecturers and instructors. Participants receive workshop materials and certificates of completion. Some courses require reading materials.

The following workshops, classes and seminars are regularly offered by AFSANI. Additionally, check out the website for special sessions held on various topics.

Introduction to an African Religion for People of African Descent

This seven (7) week workshop is designed to familiarize participants with the fundamental tenets of Akan culture, religion and spirituality. Each evening, a member of AFSANI or another distinguished guest lectures on some aspect of Akan culture, the ancient Akan Akom tradition (religion) and a number of other topics of interest to people in the Diaspora. Topics include protocol, beliefs and behavior, the Akan spiritual pantheon.

A Weekend Intensive: Akan Culture, Religion and the Traditional Political Structure

This two and a half day seminar introduces participants to the many aspects of the Akans in Ghana, West Africa. Topics include protocol, beliefs and behavior, the Akan Akom tradition, and an introduction to the matrilineal social and political system.

The Akan Traditional Political System

The two-day seminar is designed to familiarize participants with the structure of Chieftaincy in Ghana, West Africa. Discussions will include matrilineal versus patrilineal inheritance, the structure and operation of the political system and the spiritual influences of the Akan Akom tradition. Positions in the Chief's palace will be discussed.

Akan Akom Tradition in America

This workshop is given over a 12-week period. Participants will gain an understanding of the history, beliefs, deities, order, celebrations and other nuances of the Akan Akom tradition as practiced in America as well as information on the ancient system in Ghana. Participates receive a spiritual reading, bath and beads as a part of this workshop. The 12-week session ends with a Special Akom followed by a Practicum: 2-week experiential Trip to Ghana.

Child Rearing in the Akan Tradition

This one-day seminar discusses various methods used in the child rearing process in Ghana from the cradle to adulthood. Some of the rites of passage are discussed. Akan Rites of Passage Ceremonies Participants have an opportunity to learn about naming ceremonies, puberty rites, engagements, marriages and funerals in the ancient Akan tradition. Differences in various regions will be explored. Adaptations for those living in the Diaspora will be discussed. This is a one and a half day seminar.

AFSANI Gifts for Life, a Rites of Passage Program for boys and girls

This program is based on African culture particularly the Akans of Ghana, West Africa. This program is offered annually to youth ages 10-14. The goals of the program are to promote self-esteem, respect, discipline, and a number of other topics related to the challenges of growing up in today's society. In addition to 2-hour sessions two to three times a week, the program includes field trips and an African Village residential segment whereby the children are taken to a secluded place, segregated by gender to have intensive discussions regarding relevant topics. A community Graduation Outdooring Program which heralds the "coming of age" and marks the beginning of their transition from one stage of life to the next --- from puberty to young adulthood is held to complete the program.

African Drumming

Learn the rhythms of West Africa by a Master Drummer. Various drums and other percussion instruments are used. Individual and group instruction is offered.

African Art Therapy

Courses offered to enhance approaches to improve learning skills and control behavior disabilities through art. Participates will create comic books, greeting cards, and other modes types of expressions. Individual or small groups.

Computer Technology

Classes in various aspects of computer technology and tutoring available. Individual and group instruction is offered.

Creative Writing

This class is geared towards youth ages 10-16 who are interested in improving writing skills. This class will explore various writing techniques such as stories, comic books, poetry and journalism.

Special Training

AFSANI offers individual training in spiritual disciplines for Shrines such as Okomfo (priest), Obrafo, Okyeame, sacred drummers, and more. The duration of this training is 2 - 5 years depending on the discipline. There are pre-requisites to this very specialized training.

In addition, training in protocol, decorum, roles, dress for individuals newly installed in the Akan political system is available on an individual and confidential basis.

Nana A. Kyerewaa Opokuwaa, Chief Priest of AFSANI is available for speaking engagements. Lecture topics include the following:

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Traditional Akan Religious Practices in the Diaspora
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The Quest for Spiritual Transformation during the 21st Century
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Introduction to Traditional African Sprituality: The Akans of Ghana, West Africa
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Discovering Your Spiritual Path
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Reaching For Your Highest Potential
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Rites of Passage Workshop (for Youth and Adults)

For further information on the listed offerings or to inquire of any other classes or training opportunities, please email afsani@aol.com



This page was last updated on:
April 26 , 2007.

For more information on AFSANI, send email to afsani@aol.com

[Olùkọ́ Ọbádélé]

As for Akan, in english you can look at Sarpong's Girls Nubility Rites and in Twi you can look at AkanfoO AmammerE parts 1 and 2.

Obadele Kwame