Christian Orthodox Funeral Services

The Orthodox Church was formed in 1054 A.D. as a result of differences within the Roman Catholic Church, which is called the Great Schism. Today,these divisions include the Antiochian, Carpatho-Russian, Greek, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, and Ukrainian Orthodox Churches which follow the languages and cultures of their founders. Although many Orthodox beliefs remain the same, the defining principle of Orthodoxy is the belief that the teachings of Jesus and the twelve apostles represent truth.

Orthodoxy regards death as the separation of the soul from the body. The soul first undergoes partial judgment, where behavior and character during life determine the final resting place, Heaven or Hell. After Jesus Christ returns to the earth and His kingdom is established, the final judgment will occur.

When one dies, friends of the deceased can call or visit the family prior to the funeral to offer condolences and memories of the deceased. The family may be greeted with the phrase "May his [or her] memory be eternal." The funeral service is held at either a funeral home or the church of the deceased with open casket, although viewing is optional. When viewing the body, Christians may kiss the cross or icon resting on the casket. If Communion is presented, guests who are not Orthodox should not participate, but other traditions are open to everyone. When visiting the graveside, a single flower is placed on the casket.

Also see:
Christian Overview
Greek Orthodox

Go to Overview of Funeral Customs
Go to Learn About Funerals — Index of Topics.