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A Little Faith and Wine Cure the Soul
"Bulgarians try to find God in the pub, instead of the temple," Father Vassil says
Q: "Who is Vassil Kotev? The King of wine or a priest?"
A: "Faith is the pillar of every nation, whereas wine makes life sweeter. Without it, life is bitter. The wine is the King of all beverages."
Q: "Are you not afraid that some might criticize you for being a priest and a tradesman at the same time?"
A: "I have no such concerns. Whenever I am not in the church, I am a humble field worker. God is everywhere - in the field, in the vineyard, even in the wine itself."
Q: "So, where is the truth - in God or in the wine?"
A: "Actually, the truth is in both. Some cure their wounded souls with their faith, while others use the red elixir. For refusing a sip of an excellent wine is like remaining passive in the presence of Miss Bulgaria. What I am most troubled by is the fact that my church in the village of Mikrevo is hardly ever visited by any men. They are always across the street, heavily drinking in the local pub. The people have lost their faith, but I do not blame them."
Vladimir Simeonov
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On the eve of St. Trifon's Day (February 14, the wine-growers' holiday,) Father Vassil Kotev was enthroned the King of Wine in the Stroumyani commune. He graduated from the local Seminary in 1971 and became a priest in 1981 in the neighboring village of Mokrevo. His wife and children help him grow his 30-decare vineyard. |
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