As many people know, I am not a religious person...as much as people have attempted to get me to see the Light those people have failed.  I would explain to so many that if I want religion I will find it myself without the pushing of others.  Well people....I still have not found the religion so many have desired for me BUT!
    I have always been openminded about each and every religion and belief...even when some of those religions and beliefs are nothing which I have seen before.  This weekend was one of those times to view another religious belief when my husband Frank and I were invited to the local Ukranian Autocephalous Orthodox Church.  I had photographed their monastary last winter and sent copies out to the Bishop in Michigan and he wished to see me.
    Frank and I walked into the middle their church service and I instantly fell in love with all I saw.  No it was not a religious rapture, it was the newness of it all.  The vestments showed me an ancient time.  Candles, chanting, incense and the icons....wow.  During the service my photos were mentioned and I was thanked.  None of this was expected and neither was the remainder of the day....food.
    What was to be just a short time became two hours and an invite to the next day....which I jumped at.  Another day of friendship.  Golden vestments and this time more chanters and again (yes I have gotten a big head) I was again mentioned in the service.  And again more food.
    His eminence the most reverend Vladyka Makarios ruling bishop was from Texas and a full blooded indian and the only one that spoke fluent English...thank goodness and with the most wonderful bass singing voice you can imagine.
   The very Reverend Alexander Bikowetz, Patriarch of Keiv is a wonder and always ready with a hug and ready to feed us or anyone.
    When we first arrived they were singing America the Beautiful for the 4th of July. Over the past two days I found that we as Americans take what we have for granted. Most people attending the services were those that immigrated to this country and you can see in each face as you speak with them about where they came from and where they came to.  They describe the freedoms they wanted in the country they were born in and the desire for what we in America have.  I personally could never figure out why they wanted to come here until we spoke to them.  I love this country but the adore it for everything it is...good and bad. So much was spoken about over the food that I could go on for so long about each story.
    I have been invited to return as often as I wish and have requested to photograpgh the Patriarch.  This weekend found new friends and different beliefs and great different foods and I will be happy to attend again just for those.  This was a learning, religious experience.