Orthodox Christian funeral customs
Orthodox Christian funerals center on prayer for the person who died, with the body present. Here is what to expect, for the family arranging the funeral and for guests.
Timing
A viewing often takes place the day before the funeral at the funeral home, where the priest prays the Trisagion service for the person and the family.
Preparing the body
The body is buried. For an Orthodox funeral service to be held, cremation is not an option.
The casket is normally open during the services at the funeral home and the church, and closed for the prayers at the grave. The family brings clothing for the person to the funeral home.
The service
The funeral is held at an Orthodox church. At the end, those present come forward to pay their last respects and say goodbye.
At the grave the Trisagion is prayed again, and the person is buried facing east.
Mourning
After the burial it is customary, though not required, to share a meal called the Makaria, the mercy meal. Fish is often served.
Memorial services are held, usually beginning 40 days after the funeral, and the Trisagion can be offered after one year and at any time the family wishes.
For guests
Some parishes suggest donating to a charity in the person's memory rather than spending a lot on flowers.
If you are not sure what is expected, ask someone close to the family. Plain, dark clothes are a safe choice unless the family asks otherwise.
Questions to ask a funeral home
- Can the priest pray the Trisagion at your funeral home the evening before the funeral?
- Can you prepare the person for an open casket at the funeral home and the church?
- Will you coordinate with our parish and the cemetery for burial facing east?
- Can you help arrange the place for the Makaria after the burial?
Common questions
- Does the Orthodox Church allow cremation?
- Orthodox parishes say cremation is not an option if an Orthodox funeral service is to be held. The body is buried.
- What is the Trisagion?
- A short prayer service for the person who died, prayed at the viewing, at the grave, and at later memorials.
- When is the Orthodox 40-day memorial?
- Memorial services usually begin 40 days after the funeral, and prayers can be offered again after one year and at any time.
Funeral homes near you
Call two or three homes and compare their written price lists.