Colaci — ritual breads for commemoration: what they are, what they symbolise, and how they are used

They are ritual breads — braided or round — prepared for commemorating the departed, alongside the koliva. They are blessed during the service and distributed to those present and to those in need.

A colac has a particular form and a specific purpose — for the service, distribution, and the memorial meal. Ordinary bread is for the table; a colac is a ritual offering.

Bread is the sign of life and of sacrifice. The colac brought to a commemoration recalls the prayer for the soul of the departed, and distributing it is an act of charity.

One large colac for the priest and a small colac for each person who receives pomană. The total number depends on how many guests attend.

The large colac is given to the priest at the service. The colăcei are distributed to participants at church and at the meal, and to those in need, as pomană.

A prescura is the bread used for the Holy Liturgy, with a stamped seal. It is given to the church separately from the ordinary colaci for commemoration.

Yes. Colaci accompany the koliva at every commemorative occasion — from the burial to the annual services, as well as at the Saturdays of the Dead and the Moșii.

It is received with reverence and consumed; it is never discarded. The person who receives the colac prays for the repose of the one being commemorated, according to Orthodox custom.

Yes, a colăcel is usually given together with a candle, especially at commemorations held at church. The candle symbolises light and prayer for the departed.

Usually round or braided. For major commemorations, cross-shaped or double-braided colaci are made. The shape varies according to local tradition.

Yes. At the Winter, Summer, and Autumn Moșii, as well as at the Saturdays of the Dead, colaci and koliva are taken to church with the pomelnic of the departed.

Yes. We prepare them according to tradition and deliver them to the church or the location of the meal. It is a practical solution for families in mourning.

It depends on the number and size. We prepare the large colac and the colăcei according to the number of guests, with a clear price communicated in advance.

Yes, but from fasting dough, without eggs or milk, when the commemoration falls during a fasting period. The form and purpose remain the same.

Usually one large colac, together with the koliva, wine, and the pomelnic. At some parishes, additional colaci are given to the church's ministers.

Colaci can be plain or decorated with braiding. Sometimes a candle is placed on top, or they are set beside the koliva at the memorial service.

Yes. The shape, number, and names vary from region to region. The basis is always the same: ritual bread for commemoration, distributed as charitable alms.

No. You can make them at home, following family tradition, or we prepare them for you. We spare you one concern during a difficult time.

By custom, the large colac is broken or cut and distributed to those present. The gesture of breaking bread recalls its distribution in the name of the departed.

Yes. Colaci are usually baked the day before, so they are fresh for the service. They are kept covered in a cool place until taken to church.