At the prayer point, Senghor greets the spirits in silence. The altar is a place of solitude. It's a place where masks representing each of the mighty tribes of Africa are displayed and where worshippers congregate to pay their respects.

First Senghor pays homage to the spirits for their eternal greatness. He allows each one their due respect by acknowledging the color of their masks, including the colors of black, red and white The masks are prominently displayed at this place of worship.

Senghor believes "masks of the four cardinal points where the Spirit blows" have a forceful presence that protects all corners of the world. These spirits come together at this sacred place to be honored and praised in silent prayer.

"The ancestor with the lion head" is called upon to maintain an aura of peace at the altar while Senghor prays. This ancestor...