The Blessing of the Waters every January 6 is a very popular event in Berat, especially in the Orthodox community. It’s a colorful ceremony that attracts large crowds to the old bridge over the Osum River. With great pomp and ceremony, the high priest of the district makes his way to the center of the bridge decked out in a bejeweled golden crown and an elaborately decorated white robe. He is accompanied by young men and boys wearing red and gold gowns and carrying crosses or other symbols in front of them. He then throws a cross into the river. Young men dive into the icy, polluted water, competing to be the first to retrieve it. They scrap and tussle over this cross, which is considered bring great luck to the winner. The priest then sprinkles the now “holy” water over the believers to bless them. The filthy Osum, filled with garbage and raw sewage, is then believed to be consecrated and safe to drink. Brenda’s Muslim friend commented to her that only the truest believers could possibly be protected from harm if they drink this water.

The river and the bridge have an interesting and ancient history. There is an oft-repeated story that the river originated from the tears of a mythical beauty whose two suitors, who were brothers, killed each other in a battle over her.

The elderly but beautiful stone bridge is also the object of legend. Local lore has it that when the original bridge was constructed, a virgin was encased inside a chamber in one of the support legs. This human sacrifice was made in order to appease the spirits of the river who were opposed to the construction of the bridge.

Spiritualism in many forms is evident in this country. Brenda has been plagued with back pain for months and someone once told her of an old woman across the bridge who is skilled in massage and could help her. Brenda questioned further and learned that the old woman practices witchcraft and fortune telling. Brenda would much rather endure the pain, thank you.

Another time, we were cleaning a high shelf. Behind some copper trays, we found a wooden flute hidden away. On it were painted the words in English “Child of Satan.” Charms, amulets, effigies, animal horns and skulls and countless other “protections” from the evil eye are very common here. Many people tell stories of how someone they know was harmed or killed by supernatural forces. We are learning about how strong the chains of superstition, fear, and the occult are in this part of the world. Oh, how the Albanian people need the truth that will break their bonds and set them free! We pray and work toward this end.

Prayer warriors, Jesus is calling on you to fight for the freedom of these people. Will you respond to His call? Will you also pray right now for protection for your fellow soldiers who are on the front lines? Thank you for your faithfulness.

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