Greek Funerals
For many families in Melbourne, their journey to Australia began with the hope of building a better life. Greek migrants brought with them a deep-rooted cultural heritage, including their unique traditions and customs. One such significant tradition is the Greek funeral, which carries immense cultural and religious meaning. While new generations may not be fully versed in these customs, when the time comes to bid farewell to their elders, it’s essential to uphold these practises with a respectful Greek funeral service.
Honouring Greek Funeral Traditions
When a loved one is nearing the end of life, it is common for families to seek the guidance of a priest for last rites, including Holy Communion and Confession. This tradition ensures that the spiritual needs of the deceased are met before their passing. After death, one of our dedicated Greek funeral directors in Melbourne takes the deceased into our care, ensuring every step respects the customs and rituals associated with a traditional Greek funeral.
Preparation of the Body for a Greek Funeral Service
In accordance with Greek funeral customs, the deceased is carefully prepared, washed, and anointed. Families may choose to use a ‘Savano’ (Σάβανο), a white cotton shroud that covers the body – this is a poignant moment for families as they take part in the dressing of their loved one. The clothing chosen for the deceased is placed over the shroud, enabling the family to pay their final respects.
Our Greek funeral directors in Melbourne are here to guide families through each decision, allowing for adaptations that honour both personal wishes and tradition.
The Process for a Greek Funeral Service in Melbourne
The Viewing and Trisagion Prayers
Traditionally, a viewing or vigil, known as the Trisagion (Τρισάγιο), is held the night before the funeral service or immediately prior. During this solemn ceremony, prayers are offered to seek mercy for the departed soul.
The viewing is typically held with an open casket, allowing family and friends to come together, see their loved one, and pay their respects – a deeply significant part of a Greek funeral service in Melbourne.
Departing the Family Home
On the day of the Greek funeral service, the hearse arrives at the family home, allowing the deceased to depart one last time from a place of comfort and memories. Family members may prepare a bottle of oil, red wine, and a bowl of boiled wheat, which are integral to the Greek funeral traditions.
A family member may also incense the deceased, offering prayers and farewells – this final goodbye at the family home is an emotional yet meaningful way to honour the departed.
The Greek Funeral Service
The funeral service, typically conducted in the Greek language, takes place at the church, with the deceased positioned facing the altar. Family members often serve as pallbearers, a gesture of love and respect, though our Greek funeral directors are available to assist as needed. An icon of the Resurrection may be displayed as part of the service, symbolising faith in eternal life.
While family eulogies and photos are generally not permitted in the traditional Greek Orthodox Church setting, arrangements can be made for the priest to deliver prepared words on behalf of the family.
The Graveside Rituals
At the graveside, the final prayers are offered as the coffin is lowered. The priest then pours the prepared oil and red wine over the coffin in the shape of a cross, symbolising spiritual cleansing and anointing.
Sand is sprinkled in the form of a cross to represent the return of the body to the earth. These rituals, facilitated by our Greek funeral directors in Melbourne, ensure a respectful and meaningful farewell that honours Greek funeral traditions.
Contact Greenhaven Funerals
Our experienced Greek funeral directors are committed to supporting you through every step of the funeral process, from preparation to burial. If you require assistance with planning a traditional Greek funeral service, a traditional Italian ceremony, a Catholic service or other form of religious funeral, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Our team is here to help with compassionate and professional Greek funeral services tailored to your family’s needs.
