EPIPHANY

What is it?

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Epiphany is an annual Christian Feast Day on which we celebrate the “christening” of Jesus Christ.

The word itself actually means the revelation of God and refers to the appearance of the Holy Trinity during

the Jesus Christ’s christening.

How is it celebrated?

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Epiphany traditionally falls on January 6. On that day after the Church Service, the Blessing of the Waters takes place in which everyone

can participate.

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In the old days people used to believe that by blessing the waters, the priest drives out the

“Kalikantzari” that are small demon-like creatures that creep into people’s houses and

steal their food.

Which is the most common custom of this day?

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After the Blessing, the priest throws the Holly Cross into the sea or the river and many swimmers braving

the cold weather dive into the water to catch the cross and take the priest’s blessing for the year.

Are there any other customs?

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In the past young children used to sing carols over sweets or a small amount of

money, something similar to what they do on Christmas Eve.

Epiphany is celebrated until today all around Greece and it is one of

the most significant days of the year.

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Thank you for watching

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•Kostas Meliopoulos.•Venediktos Andreadis.

•Dimitris Kalligas.•Vlassis Bordenas.