Coptic Epiphany

The Feast of Epiphany – commemorating the manifestation of God in human form as Jesus Christ – is celebrated on the 19th of January in the Julian Calendar, which predates the Gregorian Calendar and is still observed by Coptic Orthodox Churches. As with other Christian traditions, Coptic Epiphany customs include singing, blessing of houses, attending Church services – and sometimes, Winter swimming and chalking the door. According to tradition, Christmas decorations are to be removed the evening before – with bad luck following those who fail to do so. Historically, Epiphany is thought by many to have originated in Greek culture to honour the Baptism of Jesus.