Greek Orthodox Church to celebrate Epiphany and blessing of the waters
Ceremonial retrieval of a cross from the sea will be accompanied by chanting and the release of doves

St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church will host the annual Epiphany/blessing of the waters ceremony on Sun., Jan. 6. The service celebrates Christ's baptism in the Jordan by St. John the Baptist.

The congregation will celebrate divine liturgy Sunday at 10 a.m. at the church, 400 Skyway Drive, Camarillo. Following the service, the blessing of the waters service with prayers, choir chanting and a dove release will take place outside the Greek at the Harbor restaurant, 1583 Spinnaker Drive, No. 101, at Ventura Harbor.

The priest throws a large white cross into the water, and youths ages 12 to 19 dive in to retrieve the cross. The youth who retrieves the cross receives a special blessing.

After the service a party will be held at the restaurant. The public is invited, and there is a charge for tickets.

For information, call the Rev. Gary Kyriacou at (805) 443-3376 or e-mail frgaryk@yahoo.com