Eleftheria
Today I had the pleasure of photographing the Greek Orthodox Christening of Eleftheria, Elle. It was only last month that I was here photographing the church for the St Nicholas centre, however as luck would have it, today was a very overcast day with a little bit of rain and even though I came early with other intentions, the contrast was too much to improve on the photo’s I took last time.
I know, I digress, so back to the christening. Both of Elle’s grandmothers were there to undress & dress her during the service. I find it’s always a touching moment when the grandmothers are there, both proud & happy that their granddaughter is becoming a Christian, and although it was a tight squeeze between the table and the ‘psalti’ I managed to grab this one.
The following paragraph I pinched from my mate Christos website, thanks.
Pure olive oil is hallowed and administered to the various members of the infant’s body. The priest anoints the face, chest, mouth, nose, ears, legs and feet in dedication to the service of Christ. The sponsor then anoints the entire body of the child symbolical of the Chrismation of kings and in belief that the evils of the devil will slip away.
Elle’s parents Helen & Bill did have a special request for me. They wanted to have a photo taken in front of the church with all their family and friends, just like they used to in the old days. Although a number had left before the congratulations were completed, we still managed to get this one.
You have probably noticed I’m in a very black and white mood today, so I’m going to finish with a colour photo of the boubouniera. As you would guess, a photo album will get my attention, and it’s a lovely momento to the family and friends to remember this day.
