The Orthodox Experiences In Memorial Service
Written by Tom Tree   
Saturday, 26 June 2010 07:18
Ethnic traditions in funeral service - East European family-Orthodox should be observed. This religion is an off shoot of Catholicism and retains some of the similarities. The funeral rights are also very similar to those of the Catholic faith.
by TomTree


Ethnic traditions in funeral service - East European family-Orthodox should be observed. This religion is an off shoot of Catholicism and retains some of the similarities. The funeral rights are also very similar to those of the Catholic faith.

In most Eastern Orthodox people cremation is not practiced. They think that a body should be put back into the earth. They use coffins and bury the body in a cemetery. Normally they have a service at the cemetery for the deceased and the mourners either speak or a priest does. The funeral service can be either simple or complex.

On the other hand in the Eastern Orthodox religion organ donors are considered good things. They believe that helping people is foremost even when they die. They often fill out organ donor cards with a witness. It is from a reference in the bible to helping others.

During the period of morning sets of three prayers are said. Each set is said at the different phases of death and then at burial. Prayers are normally said along with a death vigil. Doing this is to remove the soul from the body and help it along to the afterlife.

A funeral is held as is a wake. They have the funeral at a church, the wake at the home, and a small service that is graveside. Normally crosses, flowers and other gifts are given to the deceased's family members. Not giving a gift at this time is considered extremely rude and gifts of white flowers are especially good.

If you are planning a funeral for someone who is Eastern Orthodox you should speak with the church on exact needs. They will be happy to speak with you and you do not want to do anything that will offend anyone especially at this trying time. It is important to observe all of the important practices when dealing with mourning relatives.

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