Memorial meal (masa de pomană): organisation, menu, and customs

It is the commemorative lunch given after the service, in memory of the departed. The food is blessed, those present pray for the repose of the soul, and it is a form of charitable giving.

Usually koliva, colaci, soup or sour soup, stuffed cabbage rolls or roast meat, wine, and sweets. When the commemoration falls during a fasting period, the menu is fasting food, without meat or dairy.

At home, at the parish hall, or at a restaurant, depending on the number of guests. For many participants, food parcels are a practical alternative.

It depends on the commemoration. At the burial and at 40 days, extended family attends; at the annual commemorations, the circle is smaller — just immediate family.

Yes, but with a fasting menu — without meat, dairy, or eggs. Fasting dishes are prepared, and the koliva and colaci remain the same.

Usually colaci, koliva, fruit, sweets, and a candle. The contents are adapted to local custom and to the budget.

A meal is appropriate for close guests who can stay together. Parcels are practical when there are many guests or they travel from afar. Many families combine both.

The memorial toast is made soberly with wine. Spirits and a festive atmosphere are not appropriate at a meal of commemoration.

The priest, at the service, or through a prayer before the meal. The koliva and colaci are blessed at church during the parastas.

It is distributed to those present or to those in need, as pomană. Blessed food is not discarded; it is passed on with the same thought of charity.

It depends on the number of guests, the menu, and the location. We prepare the meal or food parcels to your budget, with a clear price communicated in advance.

Yes. We prepare it according to tradition and deliver it to the chosen location, or we organise food parcels. It is a practical solution for families in mourning.

Usually immediately after the service, on the same day. Guests go directly from the church or the cemetery to the location of the meal.

It is not an obligation, but tradition calls for those present at the service to be offered something, at least a food parcel. The number is determined by what is possible.

Yes. The tradition of the memorial meal is the same for burial and for cremation. It is held after the service, with the same menu and customs.

Usually wine for the memorial toast, water, and soft drinks. Spirits and a festive atmosphere are not appropriate at a meal of commemoration.

Usually one to two hours. The atmosphere remains sober, and the meal concludes without celebration, with a final prayer for the departed.

Yes. We prepare only the koliva and colaci for the service, if you do not wish to hold a meal. These can always be complemented with food parcels for those present.

Yes, outside fasting periods. Stuffed cabbage rolls and roast meat are common dishes at the memorial meal. During a fasting period the menu changes to fasting food.

The family can prepare it, a restaurant can cater it, or we prepare it according to tradition and deliver it to the chosen location. We spare the family from organising during a difficult time.