Memorial Services

Memorial services (μνημόσυνα) for our departed loved ones are traditionally served on the fortieth day after the person's passing, as well as the anniversaries of their passing. Memorial services allow us to continue praying for our loved ones, and to keep their memory alive within our families and community.

Memorial services take place at the conclusion of Divine Liturgy. Although they were originally celebrated on Saturdays, today they are typically celebrated on the Sunday closest to the anniversary of the person's passing.

Kolyva, a traditional preparation of sweetened boiled wheat, is offered at the memorial service in remembrance of our Lord's words, "unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit," (John 12:24). An example of a recipe for kolyva can be found at this link. If you feel uncomfortable making the kolyva yourself, other individuals at the parish can make it on your behalf.

Memorial services may not be served at the following times:

• From the Saturday of Lazarus through the Sunday of Thomas
• On any Feast-day of the Lord
• On any Feast-day of the Theotokos

Please contact Fr. Jeremy if you would like to schedule a memorial service for your departed loved one.