Post date: Jan 18, 2014 10:21:48 PM
Orthodox Christians re-enact Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River during Epiphany.
QASR AL-YAHUD, WEST BANK (JANUARY 18, 2014) (REUTERS) - Worshippers from around the world made their way to the Jordan River on Saturday (January 18) to immerse themselves in water at the place where
Christian tradition says John the Baptist baptised Jesus.Jesus' baptism is commemorated at Epiphany, which Orthodox Christians celebrate around January 19.
Some historians identify Qasr Al Yahud, at the border area between the West Bank andJordan, as the approximate site of the original baptism.
Saturday's baptisms were led by Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos the Third.
"It is a very special day because it is a day of peace, of righteousness, justice and above all a day of reconciliation," he said as walked toward the river.
People lined up on both side of the river to watch as people took part in the baptism ceremony.
One worshiper from Romania said she felt blessed to witness the event.
"We did not see much because there is too much people but we enjoy a lot it is a bless for us to be here," she said.
In Orthodox tradition, baptism is executed by immersion into the water three times.