Sunday 21 December 2008

Orthodox Rite


Photo and information from:
www.aviladigital.com
I’ve just read this news in the newspaper in Ávila. Once again, our town becomes a multicultural place, like in medieval times.
The first orthodox mass in our town was held this week-end in San Juan church,
There were two masses. On Saturday and on Sunday. Orthodox masses usually lasts more than two hours. They were celebrated by priest Laurentiu who will also celebrate in Badajoz, a town in Extremadura.
There will be masses every fortnight in Ávila. On 28th December the first orthodox baptism will be celebrated and on 6th Hanuary, Christ’s baptism will be conmemorated.
According to Eugenia Semenciuc, the chairwoman of the Romanian Immigrants Association “Eminescu”, the bishop in Ávila has promised to allow orthodox celebrations, for Romanian and Bulgarian citizens, in San Andrés church, an ancient Romanesque church.
It’s really important for new citizens among us feel they are loved their own way, with their own music, food and religious belief.
I hope this event makes our neighbours happier.

6 comments:

ivasil said...

If not happier, they will feel accepted, such as they are, with their own spiritual identity.

caluad said...

Amen.

ivasil said...

That is one ironical comment!

caluad said...

I have never been more serious.I don't need this kind of spirituality, but what other people need is important for me!.
No irony, really.

ivasil said...

Your old inherited faith can be a piece of "home" you bring with you in a foreign country, during hard times. I'm sure it's not easy for many of them. I couldn't leave.

ivasil said...

You know, people have started coming back home because of the crisis. More and more are expected. For those who had dreamed to make a new life elsewhere, it's a defeat. As for kids, many have troubles adapting back to our school environment, syllabus, language.They need counseling and it's being offered to them.