South Australian author and influencer Taydam Knowles has revealed her conversion to Orthodox Christianity ahead of her wedding this weekend to fiancé George-Alexander Mamalis, founder of conservative media platform The Adelaide Set and the new state coordinator of Turning Point Australia.
The couple, who met online five years ago, will wed in a traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony in Adelaide before celebrating at Carrick Hill, where Mamalis proposed last year.
Knowles, 25, said her baptism into the Orthodox faith marked a two-year spiritual journey of study and reflection.
“My decision to be baptised was a very slow-burning process … George didn’t push me once, but it has definitely deepened our connection,” she said.
Describing her baptism as “joyous and full of love,” Knowles said she was moved by the ritual’s symbolism. “There are three dunks — you’re washing away sin, reborn, getting a fresh start,” she said.
She added that rediscovering faith had helped her find purpose. “I truly do believe that a lot of us have walked so far away from our roots … we can’t change the world overnight, but we can be present, be grounded, and seek a fruitful life.”
The bride will wear an Audrey Hepburn-inspired ivory gown, walking down the aisle with her brother John, before embarking on a surprise honeymoon planned by Mamalis, with destinations including Tasmania, Thailand, Vietnam or Bali under discussion.
Source: The Advertiser.
