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Epiphany, known as "Vodici" or "Bogojavlenie" in North Macedonia, is celebrated on January 19th according to the Julian calendar, which is used by the Orthodox Church. This Christian feast day commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan by John the Baptist and is regarded as a revelation of God through His Son as part of the Holy Trinity.
The celebration of Epiphany has ancient roots and has been observed in North Macedonia for centuries. It is intertwined with local traditions and religious observances.
One of the most visually striking and well-known traditions associated with Epiphany in North Macedonia is the ritual of the Great Blessing of Water. This involves a ceremonial throwing of a holy cross into a body of water by an Orthodox priest. Young men then dive into the cold water to retrieve it. The person who successfully retrieves the cross is believed to be blessed with good fortune for the whole year.
In addition to this, homes are traditionally blessed with holy water, and families attend church services where water is consecrated. This water is considered to have healing properties and is often kept by families throughout the year.
On this day, many Macedonian Orthodox Christians participate in liturgical services at their local churches. They also gather at rivers, lakes, or other bodies of water for the cross-retrieval ceremony. It's common for people to spend time with family and friends, enjoying festive meals after attending church services.
During Epiphany celebrations, towns and villages across North Macedonia come alive with processions and communal gatherings, emphasizing a sense of community and shared faith on this significant religious holiday.