I read an anthropology monograph about voodoo in Haiti for Margaret Mead's class. These ceremonies have special functions in society that might be necessary without religion attached to it. The author of the book I read was hired by pharmaceutical companies to research the zombie neurotoxin. He found that no one was afraid of zombies. Their fear was becoming one. He researched and claimed there was a connection between Papa and Baby Doc. There was no reliable law enforcement on the island. Zombies were typically people who stepped beyond the bounds of the culture, such as child rapists.
St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan has had a voodoo problem for decades. Priests and priestesses are casting spells. The spells only work if you believe it. I found Santierra candles on an altar at the cathedral. The priest said to let it be. I wanted certain candles pulled out. The Fire Dept. came, though, and the candles' glass was too explosive to have indoors.
I am shocked that I read an entire book about voodoo. Hey, I touched the voodoo candle. Not bad for demon plagued me.
I used to say the Jesus Prayer from the Russian Orthodox Church in meditation. Believe me, I was casting no spells. I pray to not see a light on the road to Damascus.