Ministry of defence Republic of Serbia
 
19.01.2026.

SAF members swim for Holy Cross



This years, members of the Ministry of Defence and the Serbian Armed Forces once again helped organize and participated in the traditional swimming for the Holy Cross held on the great Christian feast of Epiphany in multiple cities and municipalities.
Cold water and low temperatures did not pose an obstacle for the military personnel, who, together with numerous citizens, swam for faith, honour, and pride at 49 locations.

To ensure a successful event, the Serbian Armed Forces deployed personnel, river vessels, boats, special vehicles, and tanker trucks, set up pontoon segments and tents, and provided hot beverages for participants.
Members of the Defence University also took part in this traditional event, held for the 28th time at Belgrade’s Ada Ciganlija Lake. Swimming for the Holy Cross was preceded by the Divine Liturgy officiated by Military Bishop Dositej, followed by a procession from the Church of St. George to Ada Ciganlija Lake.

Open door swimming for the Epiphany cross, marking the day of Christ’s baptism, is registered in the National Inventory of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Serbia. In keeping with this tradition, members of the Ministry of Defence and the Serbian Armed Forces take part in organizing the event every year.
 
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videoVIDEOGALLERY
19.01.2026
mp4 (98,82 MB)
Epiphany Swimming for the Holy Cross
 
MOD
Ministry of defence Republic of Serbia, Bircaninova 5 street, Belgrade
Questions of citizens: brziodgovor@mod.gov.rs, media requests: info@mod.gov.rs
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