ice swimming in Baptism is not required for an Orthodox person, said the head of the Synodal Department for external Church relations Metropolitan Hilarion in the program “Church and world” on the channel “Russia 24”.
Speaking about his attitude to swimming in the hole, Hilarion said that earlier, when time allowed, he did such ablution regularly and at any time of the year regardless of the weather. He recalled that contrary to popular belief, bathing in the baptismal font is not required and is not included in the number of sacraments. The exception is the rite of baptism when the person is immersed in the baptismal font.
Hilarion underscored that the celebration of Epiphany is the visit to the temple, participation in the Liturgy, communion, etc. a Believer can participate in the prayer for the blessing of water, and then to take Holy water with them to use during the year for healing of body and soul.
Deputy Minister of health of Russia Oleg Salagay told the Russians to bathe on Epiphany only in selected places, try to forget about bad habits and keep warm after bathing with hot tea. Medic is strictly against drinking alcohol before diving in the water. And Smoking is not recommended not only before but also after washing. Too well-fed or hungry the opposite, just from the table is also not recommended for immersion in the font. Ideally the last meal should be 2 hours before bathing.
But if you felt unwell, dizziness, fever or have the symptoms of a cold, the bathing should be abandoned. The holders of the chronic diagnoses it is better to consult a doctor.
Earlier it was reported that only in Moscow will be organized over 45 places for Epiphany bathing.