Orthodox Memorial Services

Families consult their parish priest flowing following a funeral, in order to observe the customary memorial services at 9 days, 40 days, six months and twelve months after death.

A notice is usually placed in the Greek newspaper announcing the memorial service, Mnymosino, which is usually held on the closest Sunday to the 40th day after death.

According to the Orthodox belief, Christ remained on earth for 40 days before his ascension to heaven. At this memorial service, which is part of the regular Sunday Church service the priest and family members pray for forgiveness and mercy for the soul of the deceased.

The family provides a tray of kollyva, boiled wheat prepared with sugar, almonds, sultanas and spices, covered with icing sugar and decorated with a cross and the deceased’s name.