As always, it was a great joy for the Southern faithful to receive a pastoral visit from Archpriest Anthony Gavalas. Father visited Augusta from Monday, 6/19 February to Friday, 10/23 February. The joy of this visit was overshadowed by the serious health problems of our beloved Vasili Gavalas ("Mr. Bill"), the grand old man and founder of our mission. We were also sorry that Presvytera Theodora was unable to accompany Father Anthony on this visit. On the other hand, we were very happy to have opportunity to receive the Immaculate Mysteries and to be present at the Baptism of Caitlin Nicole Smith, daughter of Patrick and Kristin Smith of Clearwater, Florida. Father's visit to Augusta overlapped with the visit of his eldest daughter, Catherine Tsouristakis, and Catherine's daughter Elizabeth. Everyone enjoyed visiting with Catherine, and the two babies charmed us all. Catherine brought a video of the Baptism of her nephew, Nicholas Giovanelli, and we were all glad to see that happy event, as well as videotape of Catherine's son Anthony, who is in kindergarten and remained in New York with his father.

Father Anthony and Elizabeth Tsouristakis

The Gavalases and Correas generously provided overnight accomodations for the Smiths and Patrick Barrett on Monday night. The Churching of Kristin and Caitlin Smith, the Baptism and Chrismation of Caitlin Smith, and the Divine Liturgy were all celebrated on Cheesefare Tuesday, 7/20 February. Cheesefare Tuesday was also the Apodosis of the Meeting of the Lord in the Temple. Those attending the Divine Liturgy, besides Father Anthony, included Vasili and Catherine Gavalas; Catherine and Elizabeth Tsouristakis; Victoria Correa; Tatiana, Patrick, Kristin, and Caitlin Smith; Christos and Thespina Tigris; and Patrick Barrett. Reader Constantine Wright, Joaquin Correa, and Victoria's good friend Lee were able to attend the trapeza and celebration after Liturgy. Patrick Barrett had the honor of sponsoring Caitlin in Holy Baptism, and is grateful to Catherine Tsouristakis for arranging a celebration during the trapeza. Miriam Gavalas of Astoria, New York, provided a beautiful christening gown for Caitlin, and Father Anthony and Presvytera Theodora provided her with a sterling cross, in addition to the crosses provided by her godfather. Caitlin is named for the New Martyr St. Catherine Routis of Attica, who was martyred in 1927.

The Churching of Kristin Smith

The Churching of Caitlin Smith

Caitlin is anointed with oil before her Baptism

Caitlin's Chrismation

The Divine Liturgy: Father Anthony during the Great Entrance

Seated: Patrick Smith, holding Caitlin Smith. Standing: Patrick Barrett, Kristin Smith, Tatiana Smith.

Kristin, Tatiana, and Caitlin Smith

Victoria Correa and Elizabeth Tsouristakis