Baptism is the third church holiday and it concludes the Christmas and New Year cycle; it is often referred to as "Jordan" in popular tradition.
The baptism of Jesus marked the beginning of a significant event in the life of every believer, known as the Sacrament of Baptism.
On the morning of Baptism, festive services are held in churches, which believers are encouraged to attend.
Baptism, the Feast of the Lord's Baptism, Theophany — these are all names for one important date in the church calendar dedicated to the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
On this day, it is forbidden to argue, gossip, quarrel, deceive, wish harm, slander, or insult others.
It is also advised against borrowing or lending money.
Additionally, it is better to postpone household chores and work for another day and to spend Baptism in prayer.
One should not refuse to help if asked and should refrain from fortune-telling.
An interesting tradition has existed since ancient times, where our ancestors avoided placing containers with holy water on the floor or diluting it.
Until September 1, 2023, Ukrainians celebrated Baptism on January 19, but after switching to the New Julian calendar, most church holidays are now observed 13 days earlier.
Therefore, in 2025, the Feast of the Lord's Baptism will fall on January 6.