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Each year on the 6th of January, which is known as Epiphany,
after morning liturgy, the minister and the entire congregation of
some Greek churches go to a dock on the seafront, the minister
carrying a cross of silver or gold that stands about six inches high
by four inches wide. After the minister blesses the cross, he throws
it into the sea. Then boys ages 16 to 32 (32 symbolizing the age of
Jesus at his death) leap off the dock and into the sea searching
frantically for the cross. The one who finds it is said to be blessed
for the duration of the year.
Submitter comment:
According to my informant, the minister and the select group of
boys may go on a boat just off shore instead of on the dock with the
congregation cheering them on from the shore. I was also told that
the cross, to the best of my informant's knowledge, has
always been found.
Where learned: GREECE
| Subject headings: | CUSTOM FESTIVAL -- January 6 Twelfth Day Epiphany BELIEF -- Mineral BELIEF -- Measure of time Year BELIEF -- Prayer BELIEF -- Sign Geometric figure Cross and its various modifications BELIEF -- Number P686.1.16 BELIEF -- Number P686.1.32 BELIEF -- Good luck |
Date learned: 00001943CA