In Greece, one’s name is not merely a matter of personal identity, it is a cause for celebration. According to the traditions of the Greek Orthodox Church, each day of the year is dedicated to a saint, martyr, or holy figure. Those who bear the name of a saint, that saint’s designated day of celebration becomes their ‘Name Day’. It is celebrated much like a birthday with a gathering of friends and gifts.

This July, Cassandra will be making her annual round of calls to Alexandra, Mary and Joseph on their respective Name Days coming up. On the morning of your Name Day, the phone begins to buzz. Cousins, neighbours, or that friend from university you haven’t seen in a decade, will call with the classic wish: Xronia Polla translating to “many years.”

Traditionally, one also attends church on your name day to lighting a candle and offer a prayer to the saint one is named after. An open house is held, and a feast is laid out for everyone to enjoy.