This church, dating to 1545, is the oldest in Bucharest. Worshippers here participate in Orthodox Catholic rituals amidst gilded trappings that reach back into Romanian history. The eye goes to the hand of the priest as it extends his blessing – it full of both energy and mystery. Photography in Eastern European churches is often prohibited. Yet here in Bucharest’s oldest church, it was permitted. It is customary to make a donation to the church in return.