Theophany: 2013

The Great Blessing of the Waters at Lake Mingo in Nicholasville, Ky on Theophany January 6, 2013.

In the Orthodox Christian tradition, Theophany celebrates the Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist. As Christ blessed the Jordan River through His baptism, on this day the water is blessed by the priest. He recalls Christ's baptism by tossing a cross into the water and pulling it back to dry land or, in other parts of the world, the cross is retrieved by divers and swimmers.

When Thou, O Lord, wast baptized in the Jordan, the worship of the Trinity wast made manifest; for the voice of the Father bore witness unto Thee, calling Thee His beloved Son.
And the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the truthfulness of His word. O Christ our God, Who hath revealed Thyself and hath enlightened the world, glory to Thee. - Troparion hymn for the feast.

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