Epiphany Holiday Epiphany holiday 19 january 1997 Early morning. Many local people have gathered for a religious ceremony . A ceremonial procession is making its way out of the church. A service is held in front of icons on the bank of the Bratovka River. Incense emanates from a swinging thurible while water vapor rises from the river into the cold air.
People stand with candles in their hands.
The religious procession returns to the church. As in old times, Orthodox believers bring holy water from the church home. Parishioners and clergymen carrying icons and banners are heading towards the Bratovka River. The blessing of the river. Father Mikhail, praying, lowers a cross into the water.