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Great Blessing of Waters
The solemn blessing of water at Theophany — one of the most ancient and significant rites of the Orthodox Church.
The Great Blessing of Waters (Megas Hagiasmos) is served twice at Theophany (January 6): once at the Divine Liturgy and once (optionally) at the natural body of water. The priest immerses the cross three times in the water while praying for its sanctification: 'Be sanctified, O water, by the power, working, and descent of the Holy Spirit.' The blessed water (agiasma) is distributed to the faithful and used throughout the year for blessing homes, the sick, and various objects. It is considered not to spoil.