The blessing of the waters

Epiphany in Aegina

January 6, and the island of Aegina is ready for the day of the lights or Theophania – one of the most important Christian religious days, celebrated all over the country. It is a day that commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist in Jordan River and the revelation of the Holy Trinity. It is a day of traditions; many of them have deep routes that lead to ancient customs and beliefs, but most of all, a day of purification for the waters and the souls.

Rainy, cold and beautiful, Aegina port is full of the people that followed the procession, waiting to see which one of the brave swimmers will be the lucky one to recover the cross that is thrown into the sea after the priest’s blessing.

Shortly after the ceremony, people are heading home, holding a glass jar with holly water; it is the end of the Christmas period, the last day of our holiday spirit and mood. Soon, the port is empty of people. The wind gently cradles the fishing boats, blessed as the waters beneath them. After a deep breath of fresh air, we walk the familiar and beloved route, between the sea, the sailing boats and the neoclassical architecture buildings.

photos by christos drazos