Greek Orthodox communities across Victoria gathered today, January 6 to mark Epiphany with the traditional Blessing of the Waters ceremonies at Rye Foreshore and Frankston Pier, drawing hundreds of people for one of the most sacred days in the Church calendar.
At Red Hill, worshippers assembled for Matins and the Divine Liturgy at the Parish of Panagia Kamariani before making their way to the Rye Foreshore for the procession and Cross throwing.
The ceremony was officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Ezekiel of Dervis, assisted by Father Irinaios Koikas, with Kyriakos Hatzinikolas emerging from the water holding the Holy Cross and receiving the blessing for the year ahead.
Later in the day, Frankston Pier became the focal point for the local Epiphany celebrations, as His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, clergy and community members gathered for the Blessing of the Waters overlooking Port Phillip Bay.
In a moment watched by families and supporters lining the pier, 18-year-old Kostas Kopsaftis retrieved the Holy Cross, earning the traditional honour bestowed upon the successful diver.
Epiphany, also known as Theofania, commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan by St John the Baptist and symbolises the revelation of the Holy Trinity. Central to the observance is the sanctification of the waters, a ritual representing renewal, blessing and spiritual light.
The ceremonies at Rye and Frankston reflected the enduring strength of Greek Orthodox tradition in Victoria, as faith, heritage and community came together against the backdrop of Australia’s summer coastline.
