Jerusalem Patriarchate Celebrates Forefeast of Theophany at the River Jordan
The Patriarchate marked the Forefeast of Theophany with solemn liturgies and the Blessing of the Waters in Jerusalem and at the River Jordan, where the Precious Cross was immersed amid rain and prayer.
JERUSALEM/JORDAN VALLEY — The Forefeast of Theophany was solemnly celebrated by the Jerusalem Patriarchate on Sunday, January 18, 2026, with liturgical services in Jerusalem and at the River Jordan. The day began at the Monastic Church of Sts. Constantine and Helen of the Holy Sepulchre Brotherhood with the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom.
Before the dismissal, His Beatitude Patr. Theophilos III presided over the Small Blessing of the Waters in the narthex, followed by a procession to the Patriarchate, where prayers were offered and the Patriarchal Polychronion was chanted. Later, His Beatitude traveled by road through Jericho to the traditional Baptism site at the River Jordan.
Despite heavy rain, clergy and faithful processed to the river’s western bank, where Vespers and the Great Blessing of the Waters were celebrated. His Beatitude immersed the Precious Cross into the Jordan, sanctifying the waters at the site of Christ’s baptism. The celebrations concluded with visits to nearby monasteries.
Previously, the UOJ reported that thousands gathered at Jordan River for Theophany Blessing of the Waters.
