Sophia & Jacob

Sunday, November 2, 2025 • Bellbrook, OH
149 Days To Go!

Sophia & Jacob

Sunday, November 2, 2025 • Bellbrook, OH
149 Days To Go!

Greek Orthodox Ceremony Explanation

A Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony is rich in tradition and symbolism, and it differs in several key ways from many other wedding ceremonies, especially in its structure and focus on religious rituals. Here's an overview of the main differences:

Koumbaros/Koumbara

The Koumbaros (for a male) or Koumbara (for a female) plays a crucial role, offering their support throughout the ceremony. In Greek Orthodox weddings, the Koumaros and Koumbara is not just a friend or relative, but an important figure in the ceremony. This person is seen as a spiritual witness to the union and the godparents off the union. Specifically, to Sophia the Koumbaros and Koumbara are the people you go to when you need help. They will be there through thick and thin, the ones that will help weather the storm.

The Ceremony Location

A Greek Orthodox wedding is always held in a church, and the service is officiated by a priest. The church setting is central to the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of faith and community.

The Crowning (Stefana)

One of the most unique elements of a Greek Orthodox wedding is the crowning. The bride and groom are each crowned with a pair of crowns, called Stefana, which are connected by a ribbon. These crowns symbolize the couple’s union and their roles as the king and queen of their new family. The priest blesses the crowns, and they are exchanged between the bride and groom as a symbol of their shared commitment and divine blessing.

Dance of Isaiah

The couple doesn’t exchange vows in the traditional sense like in many Western weddings. Instead, they walk around the altar three times in a circle, led by the priest, while a hymn is sung. This symbolizes their journey through life together and their union in Christ. The walking around the altar is also a symbol of the unity and strength of marriage.

The Blessing of the Rings

Instead of a typical exchange of vows, there is an exchange of rings, which are blessed by the priest. The rings are exchanged by the bride and groom as a sign of their commitment to each other, and the priest prays for God’s blessing on their marriage.

The Lighting of the Candles

The couple typically holds candles throughout the ceremony. The candles symbolize the light of Christ and the couple's commitment to bringing Christ into their home. The couple’s love is illuminated by God’s grace and guidance.

In short, a Greek Orthodox wedding is deeply rooted in religious customs, with a focus on faith, unity, and divine blessing. The ceremony’s rich traditions and symbolism aim to guide the couple's marriage through a spiritual journey, emphasizing the sacred bond they are entering.