Traditional funeral services are important to most families. The ethnic traditions in funeral service - East European family-Orthodox practiced by families is no different. Their religion is known as eastern orthodox and is an off shoot of Catholicism. Their funeral practices are very similar to those of the Catholic faith.
In eastern European families cremation is a big no. They believe that they should be returned to the earth. Bodies are dealt with by being put into a coffin and then buried into the earth. This is normally accompanied by a grave side service and mourners throwing some dirt on the coffin once it is in the grave.
Organ donation on the other hand is all right. It goes under helping people out even in death. In order to be an organ donor an eastern European would need to fill out an organ donor card in the presence of at least one witness. It is believed that the practice of helping others out in this way is referenced in the bible.
Several prayers are said over the dying and the dead in this religion. These prayers are to get the soul to depart the body to continue its journey. These are ordinarily accompanied by a vigil and a viewing. They prepare for death when someone is terminally ill rather than waiting until after they are gone.
A funeral is held as is a wake. They have the funeral at a church, the wake at the home, and a small service that is graveside. Normally crosses, flowers and other gifts are given to the deceased's family members. Not giving a gift at this time is considered extremely rude and gifts of white flowers are especially good.
If you are planning a funeral for someone who is Eastern Orthodox you should speak with the church on exact needs. They will be happy to speak with you and you do not want to do anything that will offend anyone especially at this trying time. It is important to observe all of the important practices when dealing with mourning relatives.
In eastern European families cremation is a big no. They believe that they should be returned to the earth. Bodies are dealt with by being put into a coffin and then buried into the earth. This is normally accompanied by a grave side service and mourners throwing some dirt on the coffin once it is in the grave.
Organ donation on the other hand is all right. It goes under helping people out even in death. In order to be an organ donor an eastern European would need to fill out an organ donor card in the presence of at least one witness. It is believed that the practice of helping others out in this way is referenced in the bible.
Several prayers are said over the dying and the dead in this religion. These prayers are to get the soul to depart the body to continue its journey. These are ordinarily accompanied by a vigil and a viewing. They prepare for death when someone is terminally ill rather than waiting until after they are gone.
A funeral is held as is a wake. They have the funeral at a church, the wake at the home, and a small service that is graveside. Normally crosses, flowers and other gifts are given to the deceased's family members. Not giving a gift at this time is considered extremely rude and gifts of white flowers are especially good.
If you are planning a funeral for someone who is Eastern Orthodox you should speak with the church on exact needs. They will be happy to speak with you and you do not want to do anything that will offend anyone especially at this trying time. It is important to observe all of the important practices when dealing with mourning relatives.
About the Author:
Get more details on how you can select a stunning gravestone that will reflect your ethnic traditions today! The right tombstone will reflect your traditions for generations to come.
No comments:
Post a Comment