If one of your loved ones is about to pass away, it is important to immediately contact the priest or email him so that he may come to the family or the hospital and pray for your loved one, as well as administer the Sacraments. This includes the offering of Holy Confession, Holy Communion, and prayers. If your loved one has already passed away, again it is imperative to contact the Father immediately so that he may come and read the prayer for the separation of the soul from the body and do a Trisagion prayer for the family. After the passing of a loved one, the priest will consult with the family as to the funeral preparations. It is important for the family to remember to bring a number of things to the funeral:
1. Wine (a small bottle).
2. Oil (a small bottle).
3. Kolyva (boiled wheat).
4. Savano (white sheet to be used as a burial shroud in the coffin).
Many people may not be sure of the Orthodox funeral traditions therefore it is very important to call our priest if you have any questions at any time.
