Today we celebrated our family's patron saint, John the Baptist. Father Mateja Matejich came to bless the house and do a simple ceremony. Father Mateja is an old family friend. He baptized both Simi and I, and will be performing the ceremony at Simi's wedding in October, along with Father Michael at the Greek Orthodox Church. He is one of the most wonderful people I've ever had the honor of knowing. He talked to me about Turkey and even brought me a book on Orthodoxy in Istanbul. When we talked of my travels, he said to me "God be with you. I wish you happiness not just while you're here or there, but every day of your life." He just warms my heart, ya know?
I tried to capture some of his short visit to our home. Note: my mom's yummy Turkish coffee (not to mention her homemade bread and pie)! I think I will be writing many posts on Turkish coffee alone, as it has had a huge impact on my life and has undeniably influenced my study abroad decision.
After a marathon to get my dad out of the house in time to drive him back to the church, Father Mateja stopped me outside and told me, "I get a lot out of just seeing you. I love to see you and your father and your mother and Simi. Some people make you murky just to see them, but you and your family make me so happy."
What a sweet man.
Stretna Slava friends!
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