In the Church of Dmitry of Thessalonica, the morning began with a festive divine service, after which the Orthodox believers walked to the local river, where, according to tradition, a baptismal font was set up, as well as heated tents for men and women for those who decided to immerse themselves in the river water on this day.
As per tradition, the village of Sosnovka was visited by Bishop Savvatiy of Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan on this day. He congratulated those present and urged them to do as many good deeds as possible.
“I wish everyone joy of the Theophany, that this joy protects from all sorrows - in daily life, in work, and in life. The water collected today should not be kept at home as some kind of relic; it must be consumed daily along with prayers. It is customary to drink it in the morning on an empty stomach, sprinkle the house, and anoint sick places. It is important for us to touch not the substance – the water, although water is the most precious mineral on earth, but rather the connection of the holy spirit with the water during these days. Holy water retains its unique properties forever. If it runs out, then as they say, ‘A drop illuminates the sea’ - just a drop in a glass or bottle of water will make all the water holy. This is how the Lord arranged it for our good, joy, and health,” he said.
The holiday of the Baptism is widely celebrated in the village of Sosnovka. People happily come to immerse themselves in the local Jordan, paying tribute to this wonderful tradition. They start arriving even at night, on the eve of the holiday.
For the participants of the bathing, refreshments, hot tea, and a concert program were organized.
