In the Orthodox tradition, the wedding ceremony is actually composed of two services. ... The second is the Service of Marriage or Crowning , during which prayers are offered for the couple, the crowns of marriage are placed on their heads, the common cup is shared, and the ceremonial walk takes place around the table.
How long is a Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony?
How long is a Greek wedding ceremony? Figure about 45 minutes to an hour in church .
What are Greek wedding Traditions?
Greek wedding ceremonies feature an elaborate ritual with the crowns . First, the priest places a crown on both the bride and groom’s head. Then, the Koumbaros, or wedding sponsor, intertwines the crowns three times to symbolize the couple’s union. Finally, the crowns are tied together with a ribbon.
Why do Greek brides get spit on?
Guests will pretend to spit on the Bride and Groom to protect them from any evil spirits on their big day ! This is generally done three times for greater luck.
What does a Koumbaros do at a Greek wedding?
The koumbaros place the wedding crowns over the groom and brides heads after passing them over the couple’s heads three times to symbolise unity . They then sip wine from the same cup and the bride and groom are then led around the altar table three times by the koumbaros as a prayer is recited by the priest.
Who pays for a Greek Orthodox wedding?
While the bride’s parents arrange and pay for the wedding ceremony, it is another who is responsible for purchasing the crowns and candles and for performing the actual crowning of the couple: the koumbaros or koumbara.
Why do Greek Orthodox wear wedding rings on right?
Greek Orthodox couples wear their rings on their right hands in observance of the rings of power, authority, and pledge worn by the Biblical figures Joseph, Daniel, and the prodigal son. ... He wore the ring on his right hand as a symbol of compassion and celebration for his hoped-for return .
Is it OK to wear black to a Greek wedding?
White or Black Tie Wedding
With white tie weddings, full evening dress attire is appropriate . ... While black tie is also considered formal, women can get away with wearing a cocktail dress and men can wear a more formal business suit. However, with black tie, full length gowns and tuxedos are also appropriate.
Do you have to be Orthodox to get married in an Orthodox Church?
While non-Orthodox Christians can marry in the Orthodox Church, an Orthodox Christian is not allowed to marry in a non-Orthodox Church or ceremony . ... While it may seem extremely difficult or complex to get married in the Greek Orthodox Church, rest assured it is not.
What do you need to get married in a Greek Orthodox church?
A Greek Orthodox man or woman can get married to a non- Orthodox man or woman providing they are Christian and have been baptized with water in the name of the Holy Trinity. The marriage must also take place in an Orthodox Church by an Orthodox Priest.
What do the Greek say when they smash a plate?
Saying ” Opa” When You Smash
In dedicated plate smashing sessions, it means pay attention, and is also used in restaurants that prepare food at the table or flambé dishes after serving. No matter the reason for the breakage, the tradition has become so popular that, in the event that you hear the word Opa!
Why does the bride step on the grooms foot?
It’s Greek tradition for the bride to try step on the groom’s foot during church service because they say if she does she will be in control of the marriage .
How do I convert to Greek Orthodox?
- Talk With an Orthodox Priest. Before you start the process of converting, you will want to speak with a priest in the Greek Orthodox Church. ...
- Learn About the Religion. ...
- Experience Church Services. ...
- Follow Instructions.
What do you say at a Greek wedding?
Να ζήσετε (na zisete)! This is the main phrase to congratulate the married couple. It would be translated as “may you live” but what it actually means to imply is a wish for a long life together that will be full of health and prosperity.
What is the responsibility of the best man at a Greek wedding?
Your best man is also usually expected to baptize your first born , thus becoming their spiritual guardian. In essence, the role brings two families together. A treasured role should you choose to accept an invitation.
Who is involved in a Greek wedding?
Traditionally there is only one Koumbaros or Koumbara, but increasingly many priests permit couples, or Koumbari [plural]. In mainstream weddings traditionally there is the Maid of Honor and Best Man , which can also exist in Greek weddings, and usually are reserved for members of the wedding party that are non-Greeks.
