Skopje, January 19 (MIA) - Orthodox faithful celebrate Monday Christian holiday Epiphany.

The holiday is related to the christening of Jesus Christ by John, who has been since called The Baptist, and catching of the cross means uniting of the man with Christ.

Mirko Petrovski from Skopje settlement Karpos caught the cross that Macedonian Orthodox Church (MPC) Pontiff, HH Stefan threw in the waters of river Vardar on occasion of Epiphany.

He hopes the cross would bring to him and all Macedonian citizens health and happiness. Petrovski was given a TV, electric range and refrigerator, golden coin from Skopje Mayor Trifun Kostovski, an icon from Centar municipality mayor Violeta Alarova and other gifts.

The cross-throwing ceremony was attended by thousands of citizens, including Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski.

It is considered that the one who catches the cross will enjoy happiness, health and welfare all year long.

The traditional ceremony of throwing the cross were held throughout Macedonia, with the largest event in Ohrid.

According to the Law on Holidays, Epiphany is non-working for Orthodox believers. ik/fd/14:42

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