Ayia Napa: Cross Lost and Found During Epiphany Ceremony

A commotion occurred during the Epiphany celebration in Ayia Napa when the gold Cross thrown by Metropolitan Vasilios of Constantia and Ammochostos was lost in the sea during the water blessing ceremony at the harbor.

Over 30 people dived into the sea to retrieve the Cross, but initially failed to locate it. To continue the ceremony, a wooden Cross was thrown and retrieved. White doves were also released.

Later, the gold Cross was found and returned to Metropolitan Vasilios. The person who found it was awarded a gold cross, while those who participated in the dive received silver crosses.