There is a ritual tradition that spans three centuries practiced by Dutch settlers in Pennsylvania known as "hexerei"—witchcraft of evil intent, and "braucherei"—casting of spells with intent to do good and faith in "pow-wow doctors".
There are those who argue that rituals can both heal and harm. Bruacherei a healing method called powwow by the Pennsylvania Dutch, is passed mostly through oral tradition, and it addresses health problems for humans and livestock. But it's not only healing; there is protection and benedictions and prayers to ensure a positive outcome for everyday life. Christian symbols are intertwined within the practice.
