Orthodox Russians jump into icy waters to celebrate Epiphany

Devout Orthodox Christians across Russia celebrated the evening before Epiphany by plunging into freezing lakes and rivers. The feast day marks Jesus Christ's baptism in the River Jordan, which Christians believe revealed Christ as the incarnation of God.

Many believers cross themselves as they drop into holes cut into ice layers that cover most of Russia's lakes and rivers in winter. Orthodox priests first bless the water before stepping aside to watch adherents take the chilling plunge.

After entering the water, believers completely immerse themselves three times to imitate the Messiah. The ritual either takes place on the evening before or on Epiphany, which traditionally marks the end of the Christmas period in Russia.

Emergency workers are also nearby to save participants from potential shock. Because of the extreme cold, doctors warn that children and people with a high risk of suffering a heart attack should keep their clothes on and watch the proceedings from the sidelines.

Orthodox Christians in Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Serbia also immerse themselves in freezing waters to mark Epiphany. Believers less willing to risk frostbite or shock make the trip to the River Jordan, where temperatures in January are usually more pleasant.