Research Guides: WRTR 1313: Religion in Public Life: Practices and Rituals

Supplementary Texts

Gods, Have Merced! A Documentary Film
A thesis chronicling the struggle of Jose Merced, a Santeria priest, with the city of Euless, Texas. He has struggled for 17 years to overrule an ordinance that bans the most critical element of his faith: animal sacrifice.
Gods, Have Merced! Excerpt
15-minute excerpt from documentary film.

Library Search - Advanced This link opens in a new window
Good for interdisciplinary and general searches.
ATLA Religion Database with ATLASerials PLUS This link opens in a new window
Includes articles on the creation of rituals and animal sacrifice in rituals.
Anthropology Plus This link opens in a new window
Features information on the creation of rituals within cultures.
SocINDEX with Full Text This link opens in a new window
Houses articles on the creation and meaning of rituals within society. Includes information on animal sacrifice and psychedelics used in rituals.

Search the Dallas Morning News and Dallas Observer for coverage of the case in Euless.

The Christian Rejection of Animal Sacrifice by Daniel C. Ullucci
Publication Date: 2011
Looks at the meaning and purpose of sacrifice in ancient religions, and the creation of new rituals and spiritual practice within Christianity.
Ancient Psychoactive Substances by Scott M. Fitzpatrick (Editor)
Publication Date: 2018
Includes chapters on the use of intoxicants and Ayahuasca in indigenous cultures in North and South America.
Religion and the Constitution, Volume 1 by Kent Greenawalt
Publication Date: 2009
Presents a new framework for addressing controversial questions that involve competing demands of fairness, liberty, and constitutional validity. Includes a chapter on religious exemptions and drug use.