Annual blessing of waters

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 in Orthodox tradition the correct definiton of it is Blessing of water, I know that for sure because participated in such ritual in UK:it is called annual blessing of water, if you would translated it baptism day it is incorrect:), my apologies
-Thank you ! I ask few times and no one told me that !
It is important so thank you ;


DAYS of rain and high winds gave way to sunshine on Wednesday as an annual blessing took place on Bournemouth Pier.

Orthodox Christian priest John Ives was joined by a number of parishioners for the blessing of the sea, a traditional ceremony commemorating Theophany (Ephiphany).

Father Ives, of the Community of St Aristobulos and the Enlighteners of Britain based near Boscombe, read passages from the Bible at the end of the pier before casting a wooden cross into the waves.

The traditional Orthodox ceremony, which has been carried out by priests in Bournemouth for many years, commemorates Christian teachings about the baptism of Christ and the manifestation of God to man.


Father Ives, who dressed in traditional robes for the service, said: “This was one of our best attendances for this ceremony.

“This takes place on January 6, an important day for us as it marks Theophany.

“In other Orthodox traditions it marks the coming of the Magi, or wise men, and also the first miracle at the wedding of Cana, where Jesus turned the water into wine.”

And all who attended were grateful for the weather, in particular those who attended the ceremony in 2014.

Father Ives said: “Two years ago, we had to abandon the whole thing halfway through because the weather was so awful.

“We’re very lucky to have such a beautiful day. It’s very peaceful here today.”

Father Ives, who was a practising Anglican until 1994, was joined by Father Chrysostom of St Dunstan Orthodox Christian Church in Parkstone for the ceremony.