Macarthur Memorial Park has prepared this guide to help families, friends and visitors understand the key elements of Orthodox Christian funerals, what to expect, and how we support the community with dignity and care.

Why this guide exists

Orthodox Christian funeral traditions are sacred and deeply spiritual. This guide aims to:

• Help families prepare for an Orthodox Christian funeral
• Support visitors attending for the first time
• Encourage understanding and respect for Orthodox customs
• Provide practical information for the Macarthur community

Core beliefs

Orthodox Christians believe in the resurrection of the dead and eternal life. Death is not the end, but a transition. The soul separates from the body and begins a 40-day journey, culminating in spiritual judgment. Funeral rites are intended to ease this journey and seek God’s mercy.

Structure of the Orthodox funeral

Preparation and wake

The body is washed and dressed, often in white or church garments, and placed in an open casket. A wake, also called the Parastasis or Trisagion service, may be held the evening before the funeral. During this service, hymns and prayers are offered for the repose of the soul.

Funeral service

The funeral service is usually held in an Orthodox church or chapel. The casket remains open, and psalms, hymns and prayers are chanted. Incense is used to bless the body, and the priest speaks of God’s mercy and the hope of resurrection. The service often includes the singing of “Memory Eternal,” a prayer that the deceased be remembered in God’s Kingdom.

Burial and graveside prayers

The final part of the funeral takes place at the cemetery. The body is lowered into the grave with prayers and the sign of the cross. Each mourner may throw a handful of soil onto the casket. Cremation is traditionally not permitted, as the body is considered a temple of the Holy Spirit.

Mourning and commemoration

Orthodox mourning traditions involve specific timeframes and memorials:

• Prayers on the third, ninth and 40th day after death are significant
• Annual memorials may be observed
• Mourners often refrain from celebrations for a period of around 40 days

Icons, candles and koliva, a sweet wheat dish symbolising resurrection, are commonly used in remembrance.

Contemporary considerations

While Orthodox funerals follow ancient liturgical traditions, cultural practices may vary between ethnic groups. In multicultural societies like Australia, Orthodox communities often blend church traditions with local funeral practices while maintaining core spiritual principles.

Steps at a glance – Orthodox Christian funerals

1. Body preparation

The body is washed and dressed, often by family or clergy, and placed in an open casket with a cross or icon.

2. Wake / Trisagion service

A short prayer service may be held the evening before the funeral, usually in the presence of the body.

3. Funeral service

Held in the church with hymns, readings, incense and prayers for the soul. The casket remains open.

4. Final kiss

Attendees may approach the casket, kiss the icon or the deceased’s hand, and pay final respects.

5. Burial

At the cemetery, final prayers are offered, and soil is placed into the grave by mourners. Cremation is not permitted.

6. Memorial services

Additional prayers occur on the 3rd, 9th and 40th day after death, and often on anniversaries.

What to expect if you are attending an Orthodox funeral

What to wear

• Dress modestly and conservatively
• Black or dark clothing is customary
• Women may wear head coverings in some traditions, such as Russian or Greek Orthodox

What to bring

• You are not expected to bring anything, though a small sympathy card is appropriate
• Flowers may be discouraged in favour of donations or memorial candles, depending on family or cultural tradition

Participation expectations

Standing and crossing oneself are common practices. Non-Orthodox guests are welcome to observe respectfully but should not receive Holy Communion unless baptised into the Orthodox Church.

Offering condolences

It is appropriate to offer condolences quietly after the service or at the wake. Some families may prefer comfort to be shown through shared prayer or respectful silence, especially during the first 40 days.

Orthodox Christian funerals at Macarthur Memorial Park

Macarthur Memorial Park provides a peaceful, respectful setting for Orthodox Christian funerals. Our facilities support traditional rites and ceremonies while ensuring families can honour their loved ones with dignity. We work closely with clergy and community members to facilitate funerals, graveside prayers and ongoing memorials according to Orthodox practice.