April 23, 2003

Fr. Thomas in front of the new Orthodox library.

Marthame stopped by the Orthodox Church before daily prayers to meet with Fr. Thomas. He was anxious to show Marthame the new books purchased for the children's library thanks to a gift from Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Atlanta. He had a sign made in both English and Arabic. Instead of transliterating "Peachtree" into Arabic, he had translated it - but as Olive Tree Presbyterian Church. Marthame explained to him the translation mistake. "Why would you name a church after a peach tree?" he asked. An olive tree was at least Biblical, he reasoned. We decided very few people would recognize the mistake, and it was correct in English anyway. We also decided that Peachtree would simply have to change their name. We're sure they'll understand.

Ex-pat gatherings like this are good for our emotional health.

In the evening, we gathered with the internationals from the University as well as those who arrived yesterday for a little gathering. As usual, it was good to share our stories and experiences.