Across Russia, the devout celebrate Epiphany on January 19 by immersing themselves in frigid water through holes cut through the ice of lakes and rivers, imitating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan.

A group of Russian Orthodox believers bathes in the icy water of a pond during the celebrations of the Orthodox Epiphany in Moscow, Russia. Participants believe that immersing themselves in holy waters during the Epiphany celebration strengthens their spirit and body.