This Montenegrin converted from Islam to Orthodoxy and is now named Stefan: They condemned me, but I continue to celebrate the patron saint (PHOTO)
My name linked me to one, and the heart to another religion
Young man from Ulcinj Stefan Todorovic (27) decided to convert from Islam to Orthodoxy. His decision was met with strong disapproval of his family and fellow citizens, and that is why he decided to share his life story.
Stefan had a typical Muslim name before he converted from Islam to Orthodoxy.
- Converting into different religion is not so common here, and our people look at it as morally wrong act. Disapproval of the family and fellow citizens came quickly, but no one wondered why i did it - Stefan begins his confession for our portal.
This young man comes from intermarriage, and according to him, mother Aleksandra and father Samir never imposed their religion, nor the customs coming with them.
- My situation was very specific. My name linked me to one, and the heart to another religion. I am coming from intermarriage, and neither religion was imposed on me. I felt like an Orthodox since i was little. Seven years ago i got the courage and made a turning point in life - added Stefan.
No one knew he was planing to change his religion.
- I didn't want anyone to affect my decision with their attitude or opinion. One morning i opened my eyes and i simply knew the day has arrived. That morning i made a biggest decision in my life - said Stefan.
As he said, the reactions to his decision were different, and the opinions divided.
- My father and his family did not accept my decision. They didn't want to hear about me, nor they were interested in the reasons why i did it. It was hard to live without father's support and love, but after six years, things settled in their place. They found a dose of understanding and they accepted me back into family - he said.
Threatening messages were arriving, but Stefan doesn't want to remind himself about them.
- Some were supporting me, and others were stabbing me in the back. I was prepared for disapproval, insults and criticism. Somehow i managed to deal with all that, but it was difficult. Threatening messages were arriving daily - he adds.
Every religion is beautiful to him, but now, Christmas eve, Christmas and Easter are holidays he is celebrating, and he even has his patron saint.
- Since i was little i went to the woods on Christmas morning to get Yule log, together with my friends. I am glad they allowed me to join them and to participate in this holy act - stressed Stefan.
(Telegraf.co.uk / K.B – k.bezbradica@telegraf.rs)