Greek Orthodox communities across Victoria gathered on Monday, January 6, to mark the Feast of Epiphany, as the traditional Blessing of the Waters ceremonies were held at the Rye Foreshore and Frankston Pier.
The observances drew strong participation from clergy, parishioners and visitors, highlighting one of the most sacred days in the Orthodox Christian calendar.
In Red Hill, worshippers first assembled at the Parish of Panagia Kamariani for Matins and the Divine Liturgy. Following the service, clergy and parishioners processed to the Rye Foreshore for the Blessing of the Waters and the traditional throwing of the Holy Cross into the sea.
The ceremony was officiated by His Eminence Metropolitan Ezekiel of Dervis, assisted by Father Irinaios Koikas.
Amid prayer and hymns, Kyriakos Hatzinikolas emerged from the waters holding the Holy Cross, receiving the traditional blessing for the year ahead to the applause of the gathered crowd.
Families, parishioners and visitors came together in large numbers, reinforcing the enduring connection between faith, culture and community life.
Later in the day, Frankston Pier became the focal point of local Epiphany celebrations. His Grace Bishop Kyriakos of Melbourne, together with clergy and community members, led the Blessing of the Waters overlooking Port Phillip Bay.
Watched by families and supporters lining the pier, 18-year-old Kostas Kopsaftis retrieved the Holy Cross, receiving 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 the revelation of the Holy Trinity. Central to the feast is the sanctification of the waters, a ritual representing renewal, blessing and divine light.
Across Australia, Greek Orthodox communities marked Epiphany with similar devotion, as churches and coastal locations became focal points of worship, tradition and communal reflection. From major cities to regional centres, congregations gathered for the Divine Liturgy followed by the Blessing of the Waters, the central ritual of the Epiphany observance. Held at beaches, rivers and harbours, the ceremony symbolises spiritual renewal, purification and the sanctification of creation.
The ceremonies at Rye and Frankston reflected the enduring strength of Greek Orthodox faith and tradition in Victoria, as heritage and community came together against the backdrop of Australia’s summer coastline.
The central Blessing of the Waters for Melbourne will take place on Sunday, 11 January, at the historic Princes Pier in Port Melbourne.
