Epiphany, also known as Theophany, is celebrated in Russia on January 19. On this day, believers dive into holes cut in ice over rivers and lakes. The bathing sites are blessed by Orthodox priests.
Epiphany, also known as Theophany, is celebrated in Russia on January 19. On this day, believers dive into holes cut in ice over rivers and lakes. The bathing sites are blessed by Orthodox priests.
On Friday, on the eve of Epiphany, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia conducted the rite of the Great Blessing of Water at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow.
The consecration font holds several tons of water. After the consecration, the first hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church and other priests sprinkled the assembled people with holy water.
Many people come to churches on this day with empty bottles to collect holy Epiphany water to last an entire year.
Long lines of believers, looking to collect holy Epiphany water that stays fresh during an entire year, form in front of churches.
People are meant to drink a small quantity of the holy water in the morning on an empty stomach. Also, the water is used to consecrate homes and offices.
After the service many priests bless nearby springs and bodies of water: lakes, rivers, and ponds.
The Emergencies Ministry estimates that 800,000 Russians will take part in the Epiphany bathing ceremony this year.
Last year, people bathed in 2,600 ice holes in Russia. This year a similar number of sites is expected to open.
Rescuers and ambulance workers will be on duty at all of these locations.
