This past week we had a special celebration here in Macedonia, St. Spas. St. Spas is a religious celebration that's village specific. So for some places it's a big deal and others it isn't. Well in my village it's a very big deal.
Daniella and I had talked about what it was like so I knew we'd go late, dance, chat, mingle and stay late. Which is exactly what we did. I've been thinking of what it felt like and the best I can come up with was that it had the atmosphere of a state fair but the intimacy of a local high school football game. As you'll see in the pictures and videos, EVERYONE, from my village was there. It was quite the festival.
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| We parked a good .25 mile away and walked up to the church. |
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| I walked in and thought, "Whoa, this is a big deal." |
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| Right when got the there the dancing started. Of course I jumped in. |
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| This is the first time I've seen venders in my village. We don't even have a restaurant or cafe. |
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| My neighbors. |
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| Yes, that is a water cooler of white wine. Did I mention it was a party? |
The next morning I went back to the church with my coworkers for lunch.
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| At noon the Bishop and Mayor lead the procession into and around the church. |
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| There wasn't a sermon just the act of going around the church three times. |
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| It was quite ornate. |
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| The bishops and priests were led by the youth of Lakocerej and followed by the adults. |
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| Now you see why it feels so similar to Appalachia for me. |
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| This is the most well maintained structure in the entire village. |
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| Svetan and his sister were shooting bb's. No I didn't tell him he'd shoot his eye out but to not miss. |
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