Agiasmos: Understanding its use and purpose

·

In the Orthodox Church, the “Great Blessing of the Water” is an important ceremony with a distinct purpose.

The Great Blessing of the Water happens only twice a year during the Feast of Theophany (Epiphany):

  • January 5 (Theophany Eve): On this day, the blessing is part of the Vesperal Liturgy of St. Basil, which is typically held in the morning in places like Greece and Australia. The water blessed on January 5 is traditionally used for external blessings, such as sprinkling homes, gardens, and fields, and is not usually consumed. This is because January 5 is a strict fasting day, requiring no food or drink (or oil if it’s a weekday).
  • January 6 (Theophany Feast Day): On the actual feast day, the water is blessed again and intended for drinking. Since January 5 is a strict fasting day, Orthodox Christians are allowed to consume this holy water the next day. The holy water can be drunk before consuming antidoron or after receiving Holy Communion.

Many people keep some of this blessed water at home for use throughout the year. To drink it properly, one should have fasted the previous evening. This water is considered so spiritually powerful that those unable to take Holy Communion (due to a canonical reason) are encouraged to drink it as a substitute for its spiritual benefits.

    Source: Lessons from a Monastery

    Advertisement

    Share:

    KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

    By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

    Advertisement

    Latest News

    HACCI National Federation holds online event on Greek-Australian trade relations

    HACCI National Federation marked a milestone with its inaugural online event ‘Bridging Markets: Greece-Australia Trade Insights’ on March 20.

    Genocide mentioned in Victorian Parliament

    The movement for the recognition of the Genocide of the Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks has gained momentum in Victorian Parliament this week.

    Evzones to lead ANZAC tributes and cultural celebrations in Adelaide and Sydney

    The Evzones will visit Australia from 23 April to 4 May 2025, participating in Anzac Day and a series of cultural events.

    Consent education safe as Chanel Contos responds to Dutton’s ‘indoctrination’ pledge

    Peter Dutton has pledged a Coalition government would review the national school curriculum to eliminate “indoctrination.”

    Alexia Apostolakis joins Matildas as train-on player

    Melbourne City defender, Alexia Apostolakis, has been called into the Matildas squad as a train-on player ahead of the upcoming friendlies.

    You May Also Like

    GCM welcomes Federal Government’s stance on tax treaty between Australia and Greece

    The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) has long acknowledged that fairness in taxation and reducing the tax burden is essential for any Greek Australian...

    Pfizer CEO, Albert Bourla, receives top Greek honour for his work developing COVID vaccine

    Albert Bourla was awarded the medal of the Golden Cross of the Order of the Redeemer by Greek President, Katerina Sakellaropoulou.

    Maria Vassiliadis appointed new Trustee to the NSW Responsible Gambling Fund

    The NSW Government has appointed four new Trustees, including Maria Vassiliadis, to the Responsible Gambling Fund Trust (RGF).