Theophany - Baptisim of Our Lord in the Jordan

Theophany (from Greek theophania, meaning "appearance of God") is one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church. It is the feast which reveals the Most Holy Trinity to the world through the Baptism of the Lord (Mt.3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22). This observance commemorates Christ's baptism by John the Forerunner in the River Jordan, and the beginning of Christ's earthly ministry. The Feast of Theophany is the culmination of the Christmas Season. In mystic commemoration of this event, the Great Blessing of Water is performed on this day, and the holy water so blessed is used by the local priest to bless the homes of the faithful.

The feast is called Theophany because at the baptism of Christ the Holy Trinity appeared clearly to mankind for the first time -- the Father's voice is heard from Heaven, the Son of God is incarnate and standing physically in the Jordan, and the Holy Spirit descends on Him in the form of a dove.

Tropar of the Feast

At Your Baptism in the Jordan, Lord, the worship of the Trinity was made manifest. For the voice of the Father bore witness to You and called You His Beloved Son. The Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the truth of His word. Christ our God who has revealed Yourself and enlightened the world, glory to You.