Russians take the plunge to mark Epiphany
Hundreds of Russians and Ukranians have flocked to Siberia to take a dip in the icy Dnipro river to mark Epiphany.
The Christian holy day celebrates the baptism of Christ by John the Baptist in the River Jordan.
Nina, a local taking part in the annual ritual, said she felt it made her feel stronger.
She said: "It's purification of body and spirit, the cleansing of everything. I've been coming here for six years. It's pleasant and warm. It strengthens my health. It's good!"
Among the participants dipping three times into the freezing waters was the Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko.
The Orthodox church celebrates Epiphany 13 days later than in Western churches, because most Orthodox churches calculate the church year according to the Julian calendar.
© Independent Television News Limited 2008. All rights reserved.
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