Many Orthodox Christians around the world have been marking Epiphany, one of the faith's three biggest celebrations.
The event – on January 19 on the Orthodox calendar – is frequently marked with a dip in icy waters to symbolize the baptism of Christ in the River Jordan, Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) said.
But in addition to washing away their sins, many worshipers also welcome the midwinter submersion as a test of hardiness and good health.
As UNIAN learned from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, over 3,000 rescuers and 590 pieces of equipment are on duty near the lakes and rivers during Epiphany events in Ukraine. The agency said that each region had established the places where citizens could come and plunge into the water.
