The Baptism of the Lord on January 6: how to properly greet Christ is baptized.

According to ТСН: The Baptism of the Lord, known to the people as Epiphany or Jordan, concludes the cycle of winter holidays. On this day, Ukrainians gather with family, bless water, and wish each other health.

On the holiday itself, January 6, as well as the evening before, the greeting changes, reflecting the essence of the evangelical miraculous moment. Instead of the usual Christmas greeting, Ukrainians use:

• “Christ is baptized!”

• And also a dialect greeting: “Christ is baptized!”

What to respond

The responses to this greeting are also traditional and unchanged over the years. When you hear “Christ is baptized!”, you should respond:

• “In the Jordan River!” (or simply “In the Jordan River!”).

This short dialogue is not only a greeting but also a reminder of the baptism of Jesus Christ—the main meaning of the holiday. If you’re unsure whether your interlocutor adheres to church customs or want to greet colleagues and acquaintances more formally, you can use secular formulations. They are also appropriate and festive:

• “Congratulations on the Baptism of Christ!”

• “Happy Epiphany!” or “Happy Epiphany of Christ!”

• “Happy Jordanian holidays!”

• “Happy Jordan to you!”

The main symbol of this holiday is water. It is believed that on the night of Epiphany, the water gains healing properties and retains its freshness throughout the year. People believe that blessed water is a salvation from many ailments: it is given to the seriously ill, sprinkled on homes, yards, and even on animals.

Thus, all wishes and congratulations on this day are traditionally related to purification and health. It is usually wished that the holy Jordanian water washes away all troubles, diseases, and sorrows, bringing renewal for the next year.

It is also worth knowing how to properly bathe on Epiphany and what it symbolizes, as well as to consider the safe locations in Kyiv for dipping.

Epiphany is not only a day when water is blessed but also a time when Ukrainians gather together, exchange good wishes, and renew bonds with family and traditions. The charm of this holiday lies in its deep ancient roots and in the common values it carries within. The festive atmosphere unites people in a common aspiration for a bright and healthy future.