Greek Orthodox Traditions?

shortyhartz

I was never raised with religion, but my FH is Greek Orthodox.  We are getting married in his church next June.  I'm new to all of this and was hoping anyone with knowledge about Greek Orthodox weddings could offer me tips/advice.  Also, I have agreed to the wedding in his church because it is important to him and in a Greek ceremony there are no traditional vows, but I'm not sure if I'll feel married without a little "I do" at the end.  I know we have to talk to the officiant about all of this, but has anyone added a short traditional vow exchange at the end of a Greek Orthodox ceremony?  Thanks for all of your help!

mewebster59

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GJones27

I'm also Greek Orthodox Christian, and I would be extremely surprised if the priest let you do an "I Do" at the end.  The ceremony is very ancient, and the church places a big emphasis on keeping traditions.  But you can ask the priest and see what he says.  If you can't say your "I Do's" at the ceremony, maybe the reception?

Also note, whatever the priest says during the ceremony is sort of like the vows.  The Orthodox Church also assumes that the couples have said their vows to each before the event.

I'm getting married in a Greek Orthodox ceremony next year, and as for resources, there are some good resources out there via googling (just make sure to check if the article is affiliated with the official church).  It's important to learn about the Dance of Isiah, the exchange of crowns, and the kombaroi (kind of like the best man/maid of honor, but Orthodox).  If you would like to see an actual ceremony, check out You Tube videos, as well!

In any case, I think the ceremony is a beautiful one, and once you have participated in the rituals, I think you will feel as if you are indeed married.  For example, at the start of the ceremony the priest refers to the bride and groom as two separate people, but by the end, the priest is referring to them as one, indicating their new unity bound through marriage.  At least for me personally, I'm excited with the idea of participating in an ancient sacrament that has been done for over a thousand years, and I think it's distictiveness from other wedding ceremonies also makes it very special.  Your family and friends will definitely remember it for years to come.

Anyways, congrats!  I wish you and your fiance many years.  :-) 

futureshaheen

Another Orthodox Bride here, I am also getting married next June. I second the You Tube. Our priest offered to let us sit in on a wedding to get the feel for one. Maybe you could do a little I do at the rehearsal dinner.

LisaB26541

I'm in a similar situation as well.  My fiance is Greek Orthodox and we will be getting married in a Greek Orthodox Church.  It has been interesting so far, learning about the ceremony itself and all that it entails.  One of my biggest concerns as well was the lack of spoken vows.  I have been hoping that there is some room for discussion on this, but it isn't looking too hopeful.  In the meantime, I've been watching Youtube videos to try to get an idea of the different parts of the ceremony and what to expect.  At first I was a little disappointed that my wedding would not be as I have always pictured it to be, but now after seeing these videos, I have seen how beautiful the Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony is.  Best of luck in planning your wedding! Definitely take a few minutes to look at some of the YouTube videos if you have a chance.  It has definitely helped me to get a better idea of what to expect.

ProPlannerKyra

I am Greek Orthodox and a professional wedding planner -- I'm happy to answer any specific questions you have!

Regarding your OP, I'd be very surprised if the priest allowed an 'I Do' anywhere.

The reason that the bride and groom do not speak at all during the ceremony is that the Orthodox Ceremony is not based on empty promises to one another, but is based on God joining the two of you together. It's actually very beautiful!