site.btaNorth Macedonia Marks Epiphany with Cross-Throwing Rituals

Epiphany is being marked Monday in the Republic of North Macedonia, with priests traditionally throwing the cross into rivers or lakes across the country. By tradition, the central events are taking place in Ohrid and Skopje.

Local media reported that in recent days the bottom of Lake Ohrid has been cleared of stones and waste, while the city harbour, where participants will jump into the water to retrieve the cross, has been renovated.

More than 140 believers have registered in advance to take part in the ritual of retrieving the cross. According to tradition, the person who retrieves the cross will enjoy good fortune and blessings throughout the year.

Under the Law on Holidays, Epiphany, known locally as Vodici, is a non-working day for citizens of the Orthodox faith.