Kiev Ukraine, January 19, 2012

Although it may not look like it, this is a religious ceremony. Every January 19, Orthodox Epiphany, believers take a dip in whatever outdoor body of water that might be handy, whether it’s an ocean, a lake, a river, or a pond. This is in commemoration of the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan many centuries ago.

This photo was taken today in one of the numerous events around Kiev, Ukraine, and the Orthodox world. Last year’s event locally was a bit of a disappointment, because the temperature that day was only 1C/34F. This year’s event was held in much more favorable conditions. At 10AM this morning, it was -7C/20F, a temperature that’s considered much more suitable for this event.

If I were to ever try this, the body of water I would look for would be the hot tub!