Epiphany in Banja Luka

The feast day of Epiphany was solemnly celebrated in Banja Luka. His Grace Bishop Jefrem of Banja Luka served the Holy Hierarchal Liturgy with the concelebration of priests and deacons of the Diocese of Banja Luka in the Cathedral church of Christ the Savior.

The Epiphany procession, led by Bishop Jefrem, began in front of the Cathedral church towards the "Patra" bridge at 12 o'clock. The solemn procession was attended by priests of the Banja Luka Archdiocese, representatives of the Army and Police, members of the Serbian Singing Society "Unity", representatives of cultural and artistic societies, the mayor of Banja Luka, Mr. Drasko Stanivukovic; President of the City Assembly Mr. Mladen Ilic and the faithful people.

Upon arrival at the "Patra" bridge, the rite of Great blessing of waters was served, after which His Grace Bishop addressed the faithful with an appropriate sermon. This was followed by the descent of the Holy Cross into the Vrbas River, as well as a swimming competition in which 12 young men participated. The winner was Mr. Srdjan Jolic from Banja Luka, to whom the Bishop and the Mayor congratulated and presented the award. Other participants were also awarded for their courage.

Due to the unfavorable epidemiological situation, a limited number of believers participated in the Epiphany liturgy and swimming for the Holy Cross, in compliance with the prescribed measures.

Source: hhsbl.org