Funeral and Memorial Services
Εξόδιος Ακολουθία
Funeral and Memorial Services
The Orthodox funeral entrusts the departed to the mercy of God and offers consolation to those who mourn. The service is rich with hope in the resurrection. Memorial services (Trisagion) are offered at intervals — the third, ninth, and fortieth days, and annually thereafter — to commemorate departed loved ones.
Requirements and Preparation
Funerals are celebrated for Orthodox Christians in good standing. The funeral home will work with the parish to coordinate timing. The Transfiguration Chapel at our cemetery in River Grove is available for graveside Trisagion services.
Questions Families Often Ask
- How is a memorial (Mnimosino) requested?
- Memorial services may be requested through the parish office one to two weeks before the desired Sunday liturgy. Names of the departed and the kollyva (memorial wheat) are prepared accordingly.
- Are cremations permitted?
- The Orthodox Church does not bless cremation. Burial in consecrated ground is the long-standing practice. The clergy can speak with families navigating this question with care and pastoral discretion.
- Where is the cemetery chapel?
- The Transfiguration of Our Savior Cemetery Chapel is at 2905 North Thatcher Road, River Grove. Orthros is offered there each Saturday at 9:00 AM, followed by the Trisagion memorial service at 10:00 AM.