Traditional Ceremony of the Cross from the Sea was Organised in Trilye

In accordance with Christian beliefs, the Cross-Extraction Ceremony commemorating the birth and baptism of Jesus Christ was held in Trilye, a district of Mudanya in Bursa.

This traditional ceremony was presided over by Senior Metropolitan Theoliptos, who led the service at the historic Panayia Episkepsis – St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church in Trilye.

Following the New Year’s service, a symbolic cross-extraction ceremony took place in the chilly waters of the sea. After the liturgy, Senior Metropolitan Theoliptos cast the cross into the sea, which was subsequently retrieved by Victor Yavuz.

Theoliptos then visited the significant Kemerli Church, an important site for the Orthodox community, where he offered prayers before departing from Mudanya.

The Ceremony of Retrieving the Cross from the Sea

The ceremony of retrieving the cross from the sea is a significant tradition in Orthodox Christianity, symbolizing the baptism of Jesus Christ. Typically celebrated on January 6th, the Feast of the Epiphany, this ritual holds deep meaning for the faithful.

The baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River is seen in Christianity as a symbol of rebirth and purification from sin. The act of retrieving the cross from the sea commemorates this sacred event, offering believers a spiritual renewal. Water, representing purity and holiness in Christian belief, is imbued with this sacredness when the cross is submerged and retrieved, bringing blessings to the faithful.

The act of diving into the cold winter waters to retrieve the cross is a testament to the courage and faith of the believers. This ritual not only carries religious significance but also represents a sense of community and solidarity. A tradition spanning centuries, it is an integral part of Christian culture and is celebrated in various forms across many countries.

In essence, the ceremony of retrieving the cross from the sea serves several important purposes: commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone of Christian faith; providing spiritual renewal for believers; and fostering a sense of community. This ceremony is valued both as a religious ritual and as a cultural heritage.