blessing of the waters sf bay

Orthodox Christians celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany or Theophany annually on January 6. This feast commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River by Saint John the Baptist whereby the Holy Trinity is made manifest and the precursor to Christ’s public ministry. Throughout the world Orthodox Clergy and people gather at a body of water such as a river, lake, or ocean to celebrate the Service of the “Blessing of the Waters” thereby imparting God’s sanctifying grace on all creation. It is traditional that a cross is thrown into the water where divers are at the ready to race and retrieve the cross. The one who retrieves the cross receives a special blessing.  As we begin a New Year, please join us on this special occasion to pray for the wellbeing and safe-keeping of all humanity as well as the protection of the environment.