Greek Orthodox Funeral Traditions: Death Rites and Mourning Customs
By CRYSTAL BAI •
The short answer: Greek Orthodox funerals follow Eastern Orthodox Christian traditions — including specific prayers, liturgical chanting, open casket, required burial (not cremation in most cases), and structured memorial services at 40 days and one year after death.
Death in Greek Orthodox Tradition
The Greek Orthodox Church understands death as a transition — the body sleeps while the soul awaits the resurrection. This theological framework shapes every element of Orthodox funeral practice, from the specific liturgical prayers to the insistence on burial rather than cremation.
After Death: Immediate Practices
After an Orthodox Christian dies, the priest may be called to perform the Sacrament of Holy Unction if not already given. The body is washed, dressed, and prepared for viewing. A cross or icon may be placed on the body. Candles are lit at the head and feet.
The Paraklesis and Trisagion
Orthodox funerals involve specific liturgical prayers. The Trisagion is a brief prayer service often performed before burial. The funeral service (Pannychida or Parastas) is a full liturgical service in the church, with chanting, incense, and readings from the Scriptures and Orthodox hymns.
Open Casket and Viewing
Open casket is traditional in Greek Orthodox practice, allowing the community to bid farewell to the deceased. Viewing typically takes place the evening before the funeral service.
Burial: Required, Not Cremation
The Greek Orthodox Church traditionally requires burial — the body is treated with reverence as a temple that will be resurrected. Cremation has historically been prohibited in Orthodoxy, though some Orthodox jurisdictions now allow it in certain circumstances. Families should consult their priest.
Memorial Services
Structured memorial services are held at regular intervals: the third day, the ninth day, the fortieth day (Tesserakosto), the third month, sixth month, and annually. These services involve prayers for the departed and often a meal with koliva (boiled wheat, symbolizing death and resurrection).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Greek Orthodox funeral traditions?
Greek Orthodox funerals include specific liturgical prayers (Trisagion), open casket viewing, church burial service with chanting and incense, burial (not cremation), and structured memorial services at 40 days, 3 months, 6 months, and annually.
Can Greek Orthodox Christians be cremated?
The Greek Orthodox Church traditionally requires burial and has historically prohibited cremation, viewing the body as a temple to be resurrected. Some jurisdictions now allow cremation under certain circumstances. Consult your priest for current guidance.
What is koliva in Greek Orthodox tradition?
Koliva is boiled wheat decorated with powdered sugar, nuts, and seeds, prepared for memorial services. It symbolizes death and resurrection, based on the Gospel saying 'Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone.'
How long is the Greek Orthodox mourning period?
Structured Greek Orthodox memorial services are held at 3 days, 9 days, 40 days (Tesserakosto), 3 months, 6 months, and annually. The 40-day service is particularly significant.
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