greek_ggirl
Active member
I live in Montreal, so I've never witnessed the catching of the cross (when they throw the cross into the ocean and people swim to get it). What is the meaning behind this? And is it done in all parts of Greece?
Greek Traditions Community
What is the meaning behind the Epiphany catching cross tradition?
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tomipark
Active member
From what I understand this custom celebrates the Epiphany. According to the website "In the Greek Orthodox Church, Epiphany is celebrated as the revelation of Christ as the messiah and second person of the trinity, at his baptism, by John the Baptist, in the River Jordan." Source: https://athenscentre.gr/epiphany-in-greece/
k_tsoukalas
Administrator
The tradition is a way for Greeks and those in the diaspora to celebrate the baptism of Christ. In some places, it is actually a competition, and in others, the best swimmer/diver in the area is selected to retrieve it.
