When is the Feast of the Theophany?
In the Greek and Romanian Orthodox Churches, Epiphany celebrates the baptism of Jesus rather than the arrival of the Magi (Three wise men) which is celebrated on January 6th as Epiphany in the Western Church.
Other Orthodox Churches celebrate the Feast of the Theophany on January 19th using the Julian calendar date.
What is the Feast of the Theophany?
This observance commemorates Christ's baptism by John the Forerunner (John the Baptist) in the river Jordan, beginning Christ's ministry on earth and revealing the Holy Trinity of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit to mankind. Though no date for the baptism is given, it is generally accepted that Jesus was about 30 years old when he was baptised.
Despite the baptism of Jesus not being part of the nativity of Jesus, The Feast of Theophany is the culmination of the Christmas Season.
“The feast of the Baptism of the Lord … is unique in that on this day most of the Orthodox faithful are present in church to receive Holy Communion, in the Orthodox tradition,” the legislators write. They also highlight the Great Sanctification of the Water as a unique aspect of Theophany.
Epiphany in Cyprus
Epiphany is known in Cyprus as ‘Ta Fota’ which means ‘the light’. It is usually an important festival with celebrations taking place across many harbours in Cyprus and marks the end of the festive season.
Orthodox belief says that this was the day of the baptism of Jesus and that this is where the day’s association with water arises. Some people brave the cold waters, diving into the sea across the island to retrieve a crucifix cast by a priest to bless the waters.
As the day is a public holiday, banks will be closed as will government offices. In addition many general stores, supermarkets, and businesses will also be closed for the day.
