Preparing for Theophany
As we conclude the twelve days of Christmas, we transition our spiritual focus from the humble cave in Bethlehem to the waters of the Jordan River. On Theophany Eve (January 5), we observe a day of strict fasting followed by the "Second Holy Supper"—a beautiful tradition that serves as our final preparation for the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord.
The word Theophany means "Manifestation of God." This meal marks the eve of the public revelation of the Holy Trinity: when Christ was baptized, the Father's voice was heard from heaven, and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove. The Holy Supper is a "fasting feast" that sanctifies our homes and bodies before we receive the Great Blessing of Water.
Traditional Customs
- The Lenten Fast: To honor the solemnity of the eve, the meal is meatless and dairy-free. It is often called the "Hungry Holy Supper" because it is simpler than the Christmas Eve feast.
- Theophany Water: The evening typically begins or ends with the family drinking the newly blessed "Jordan Water" from the church services.
- Blessing of the Home: Following the meal and church services, it is traditional for families to sprinkle their homes with holy water, asking God to bless and protect their household in the coming year.
Join Us in Celebration
We invite all parishioners to join us for the Great Blessing of Water and the Divine Liturgy as we celebrate the illumination of the world by the light of Christ.
At your baptism in the Jordan, O Lord, worship of the Trinity was revealed; for the Father's voice bore witness to you, calling you his beloved Son, and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the truth of these words. O Christ God, you appeared and enlightened the world. Glory to you!
What is Holy Water and How to Use It?
Water symbolism in the Bible includes divine teaching and the gift of God (see John 4:10), death (see Ps. 69:2), primordial chaos (see Gen. 1:2), and more. Often water acts as a substance through which a person receives healing (see John 5:2-4, 9:6-7). There are also biblical verses describing the consecration of water by the Old Testament priesthood (see Numbers 5:17). The biblical meaning of water is multifaceted, while the use of it in the Church originates from an ancient Old Testament practice.
Sprinkling of Holy Water
In the Church, a priest uses a sprinkler to bless people or objects with holy water. In a similar way, you can sprinkle your house and icons and even wash your face with it. You can drink it every day, especially if you have a spiritual need for it.
How Long Can You Keep Holy Water?
St. John Chrysostom wrote that it can remain fresh for years, as long as it is treated reverently.
What Happens to a Person Taking Holy Water?
Holy water is a conductor of divine grace, healing, cleansing and sanctifying a person and acting as a conductor of spiritual support from God. We should remember however the words of St. Theophan the Recluse, who said that grace is communicated only to those who deserve it through repentance, prayers, humility and other Christian virtues. If a person does not live a Christian life, there will be no benefit to him from drinking holy water, except in cases of special grace of God.
How to Drink Holy Water?
Usually, it is consumed in the morning with prayer and on an empty stomach. However, in case of spiritual need, one can do it at any time. Again, the main thing is a reverent attitude.