Ivan Loteski from Ohrid is the believer who retrieved the Holy Cross after Bishop Timotej, the Metropolitan of the Debar-Kichevo Eparchy, threw it into the waters of Ohrid Lake on Saturday morning.

“This is the second time I’ve caught the cross,” Loteski told MIA’s Ohrid correspondent. “I didn’t have great expectations, but I managed to get to it. It brings me joy but it also makes me sad because of my late father [not being here to see it]. I hope he’s looking down on me from heaven and is happy for me.”

“Let all of us in Ohrid celebrate the holiday and may it bring everyone health, love, and happiness,” Loteski said.