How long are Orthodox funerals?
A bit longer than the average funeral length, A Greek Orthodox funeral service is about 90 minutes long. The church ceremony is about one hour and the burial is about 30 minutes.
What do Orthodox people say when someone dies?
Traditional Greek Orthodox greetings to the bereaved family are: “May you have an abundant life,” “Memory eternal,” and “May their memory be eternal.” Antiochian Orthodox expressions of sympathy include “May God give you the strength to bear your loss,” and “May his [or her] memory be eternal.”
Are Orthodox funerals open casket?
An open casket is present, facing east in accordance with the tradition that when Christ was born the guiding star was in the east. Guests can greet the family and offer condolences.
Why do Orthodox mourn for 40 days?
The observation of the 40th day after death occurs in Islam and the Eastern Orthodox tradition. The ritual represents spiritual intercession on the part of the dead, who are believed to collectively await the Day of Judgment.
What happens at an Orthodox funeral?
The funeral service, to take place at a funeral home or Greek Orthodox Church will include hymns, prayers, and readings from the bible. The priest may also offer a sermon and speak about the deceased. The casket will likely be open with a viewing of the deceased optional.
What happens in an Orthodox funeral?
What are Ukrainian funerals like?
According to the Orthodox services that many Ukrainians use for their funerals, people believe that the soul stays near the body for three days following the death. Family members and friends come to say their final goodbyes alongside an open casket on these three special days.
What do you wear to an Orthodox funeral?
If you were to attend a funeral at a Greek Orthodox Church, what should you expect? Those attending dress in dark, modest clothing. Typically, men wear suits and women wear dresses, as the church encourages everyone to cover their arms and legs.
Why do Orthodox eat fish after funeral?
A makaria is a tradition similar to a repast after a funeral; the family usually serves fish since this is a symbol of Christ, and there are no desserts or extravagances, though this is a time for religious celebrations.