ORLANDO, Fla. — Members of St. George Orthodox Church started their Sunday with service. But by noon, they walked across the street to Lake Eola.
What You Need To Know
Members of St. George Orthodox Church held their 53rd annual cross dive Sunday
A golden cross is tossed into Lake Eola, where church members have to retrieve it for a special blessing
The annual tradition is held before the Great and Holy Theophany
At the lake, Charles Hill, a subdeacon with the church, threw a gold cross into the water. A small group dove in after it, participating in an annual tradition started 53 years ago.
“The people dive in this cold weather. It shows their faith and their commitment to Christ, and the message of Christ going out into the world,” said Hill.
Hill says for him, this tradition marks a milestone. It’s held the Sunday before the Great and Holy Theophany, as they celebrate the baptism of Jesus Christ.
“Every year after you’ve seen the diving for the cross and you’ve sang the prayers of the church, you just feel like you’ve marked that passage of time and that the world continues and there’s good things to hope for in the world,” said Hill.
This year, 14-year-old Jason Gogsadze caught the gold cross. Since he did, Hill says the winner receives a special blessing — giving them courage throughout the year.
“It’s the third time I did this, first time I won, and I’m feeling very good and happy,” said Gogsadze. “I feel proud and honored to get the cross and be blessed.”