SOFIA, Bulgaria — Thousands of Orthodox Christian worshippers plunged into icy rivers and lakes across Europe on Sunday to recover crucifixes cast by priests in ceremonies commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ.
Tradition holds that the person who retrieves the wooden cross will be freed from evil spirits and will be healthy throughout the year. After the cross is fished out, the priest sprinkles believers with water using a bunch of basil.
Epiphany is held every year on Jan. 6 and marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas.
In the central Bulgarian mountain city of Kalofer, dozens of men dressed in …read more
Source: Montreal Gazette
