Theophany (Orthodox Epiphany)

Culture of origin: Christian · Cultural

Holiday sources: Eastern Orthodox

Theophany, "the manifestation of God", commemorates Jesus's baptism by John the Baptist and the start of his public ministry. On the old calendar it falls on 6 January Julian, which is 19 January until 2100. The church performs the Great Blessing of Waters, on the eve inside the church and on the day outdoors; in Russia, where the winters are severe, a hole is cut in the ice and the cross dipped into the water three times. It is a public holiday in Georgia.