Funerals and Religious Ceremonies
Orthodox Christian Funeral
Interfuneral is a specialised funeral services agency that offers assistance in planning and organising funerals and ceremonies.
Here are some of the services that Interfuneral might offer for an Orthodox Christian funeral:
Consultation and planning
Interfuneral provides personalised consultation to the family of the deceased, helping them to plan and customise the funeral service according to their needs and preferences, including the selection of specific elements of the rite.
Organisaton of the ceremony
Interfuneral takes care of the practical organisation of the ceremony, ensuring that all necessary elements are available for the service.
A funeral with a religious ceremony and Orthodox Christian rite follows a series of practices and rituals specific to the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Overview of the main elements of the ceremony
Preparation of the body
The body of the deceased is prepared according to Orthodox traditions, which may include washing and dressing in special garments.
The body may be placed in an open or closed casket, depending on local practices and family preferences.
Funeral service
The Orthodox funeral service is called “Panichida” or “Parastas.”
This liturgy includes prayers, Scripture readings, and the use of incense.
During the service, God's mercy is invoked for the soul of the deceased, and prayers are offered for them to rest in peace.
Religious icons
Religious icons are often present during the funeral service and may be placed near the casket of the deceased.
Orthodox Christians believe that icons are windows to the spiritual world and help connect the living with the deceased.
Liturgical hymns
Specific liturgical hymns are sung during the funeral service that reflect the Orthodox faith and hope in eternal life.
Burial or internment
After the funeral service, the body is taken to the cemetery for burial.
During the burial process, additional prayers and blessings may be recited.
In some Orthodox communities, it is also common to practice entombment, which involves placing the body in an underground crypt.
Memorial meals
After the funeral, it is traditional for family and friends to gather for a memorial meal in honour of the deceased.
This gathering offers an opportunity to remember the deceased and comfort the family during their period of mourning.
These are some of the elements that characterise a funeral with a religious ceremony and Orthodox Christian rite.
It is important to note that practices may vary slightly between different Orthodox communities, but the main objective remains to honour the deceased according to the traditions of the Eastern Orthodox Church and to provide spiritual comfort to the family and friends.
In general, Interfuneral is committed to providing a comprehensive and respectful service that meets the needs and beliefs of the deceased’s family, ensuring that the Orthodox Christian funeral is conducted with dignity and devotion.
