Santeria in Southern California

The crucifix adorning the gate and a life-size figure of a Buddha on the porch suggest the home is religious. But you won't recognize the faith until you go inside and find Charles Guelperin going through his morning Santeria rituals.Tony Castro in the Daily News.

In a study filled with unusual objects, Guelperin meditates with his forehead on an urn representing Obatala, the holiest of Santeria spirits. He then kisses it before brushing himself with an elaborate large horsetail that symbolically cleanses him for the day ahead.

This is the kingdom of Guelperin, who looks like an aging Marine with Old-World mystic eccentricities that can quickly frighten and intimidate.