Photo Gallery: Epiphany 2013 Dive for the Cross
A group of 48 Greek Orthodox male youths dove for the cross in hopes of retrieving it and receiving a blessed year in return.
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Although 48 youngsters aged 16-18 had their eyes set on the Epiphany 2013 cross, only one could retrieve it.
Vassili Harding, 16, of Tarpon Springs appeared with the white, wooden cross shortly after it was thrown into Spring Bayou. The cross bobbed up and down in the water just before Harding snagged it.
Harding, a Tarpon Springs High School student, climbed out of the bayou and was met with cheers from the crowd. A group of boys lifted Harding up and carried him back to St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral where the annual Glendi (festival) was taking place.
According to Epiphany Committee Co-Chairman, Johanna Kossifidis the event was a success and Harding's hard work did not go unnoticed.
"I am very proud," Kossifidis said. "It was the exact reaction that we always want to get out of any cross retriever."
Rachel Jolley
8:58 am on Monday, January 7, 2013
This was my first Epiphany celebration and it was spectacular! Congratulations to all of the participants :)
Helen Gillespie
9:24 am on Monday, January 7, 2013
I have visited Tarpon Springs many times. What a wonderful community! Some day I will make it there for the Epiphany celebration.
Rachel Jolley
9:38 am on Monday, January 7, 2013
Come on over, Helen! This city is all about making newcomers feel like family :) Maybe we'll see you at the 2014 Epiphany celebration?
Jeffrey Rosenfield
9:24 am on Monday, January 7, 2013
Great shots Rachel! Way to capture the spirit of the event!
Rachel Jolley
9:38 am on Monday, January 7, 2013
Thanks, Jeff! It was epic to say the least :) I don't think you could pay me enough to get in that water, so kudos to the brave, young lads who went for it!
Costa Zazaliaris
5:17 pm on Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Congratulations to Vasili my best friend u deserved it