The Orthodox funeral service: the prohod and its order

It is the prohod — the Church's rite through which the priest accompanies the departed, with prayer and the hope of resurrection, at the wake, at the church, and at the graveside.

The prohod is the funeral service proper, with prayers, chants, and readings from Scripture, through which forgiveness and rest for the soul of the departed are sought.

The full prohod typically lasts between one and a half and two hours. At the family's request, an abbreviated version can be performed, which is shorter.

At the parish church or at the cemetery chapel. The casket is placed with the face towards the altar, and at the end the procession goes to the grave.

The priest — usually the priest of the parish to which the deceased or the family belongs. If you do not have a priest, we can help you contact the parish.

On the evening before the funeral, the priest says prayers beside the casket, Scripture is read, and candles are kept burning. It is a time of vigil and prayer.

After the church service, the procession goes to the cemetery. The priest says the final prayers, earth is sprinkled over the casket, and the casket is lowered into the grave.

The coliva — the symbol of resurrection — is blessed by the priest at the service and distributed to everyone present as a sign of remembrance for the departed.

Yes, at the family's request. The abbreviated service is shorter than the full prohod. The order is agreed with the priest according to the family's wishes and circumstances.

For baptised Orthodox Christians. In special circumstances the order may differ; the priest guides the family in each case.

Prayers, psalms, and the Gospel. The service also includes a word of remembrance in which the priest recalls the departed and brings comfort to the family.

Usually the word of remembrance is spoken by the priest. Those close to the deceased may say a few words, according to the parish's practice and the family's wishes.

The coliva, colaci, candles, and wine for the blessing, plus the clothing chosen for the departed. We prepare all of this at your request.

The Romanian Orthodox Church does not perform the prohod at cremation. We will explain the situation and help you find a solution that respects the family's faith.

We coordinate with the priest on the day and time, prepare the coliva and everything needed, and handle transport and the cemetery so the family can pray in peace.

The family gives the priest a sum according to their means and local custom. There is no fixed fee — it is a gift for the ministry rendered, settled at the church.

At the family's wish and with the priest's agreement, yes — discreetly. Some families prefer a sober recording; others prefer complete privacy. We respect your choice.

Usually yes, until the end, for a final farewell. It is closed before the casket is lowered into the grave, or before cremation.

Yes. If the family has a close priest or a spiritual father, the service can be performed by him, with the agreement of the local parish where appropriate.

Censing is the act by which the priest honours the casket and those present with incense smoke, as a prayer rising to God.

Usually one. At the family's request and depending on circumstances, more priests may officiate, especially for a more solemn service.

Yes, at the cemetery or at an open chapel. The committal at the grave always takes place outdoors, with the prayers for lowering the casket.

Yes. Children can be present alongside the family. With age-appropriate preparation, being present helps them say their farewell.

The candles are carefully extinguished or allowed to burn down, according to custom. Some are given as pomană alongside the coliva and colaci.

Yes. The service is held at repatriation, in Romania, or, if the burial is abroad, a memorial service can be held here. We help you coordinate.

A shorter version of the funeral service, performed at the family's request or in certain circumstances. The priest advises when it is appropriate.

Yes, there are specific rites for the burial of priests and monks. For a lay person, the standard prohod is followed.

Usually during the day, in line with the church and cemetery schedules. We agree the time with the priest, taking into account the procession and the memorial meal.

A passage on resurrection and eternal life, chosen according to the order of the funeral service. The Gospel brings the hope of resurrection into the midst of grief.

At the end, the priest pours oil and wine over the departed in the shape of a cross, as a sign of God's mercy. It is a gesture from the order of the prohod.