As a Greek Orthodox Christian, there are certain responsibilities that each individual have to the church. in return, the Greek Orthodox church offers a wide array of services to the Christian patrons. As an Orthodox Christian, regardless of national origin, you are given the right to receive the sacraments (Moskos 97)89.

Most Greek Orthodox children are introduced to the church before they are even old enough to remember it. It has become customary for a baby to be baptized into the Greek Orthodox church as young as 9 months old. Culture plays a large part in this holy ritual as well. A godmother must be chosen for the child who is supposed to act as a spiritual guide for the child throughout their lives. This ceremony acts as an initiation into the church, a forgiveness of sins, and the beginning of a Christian life (Fitzgerald 1)90.

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A child being baptized into the Greek Orthodox church by his godfather, or ο νονός.

The receiving of holy communion is most likely the next direct connection that a young Greek child will have with their church. Holy communion can be received on any holiday and every Sunday. The elements of bread and wine in the Holy Communion are believed to be the very Body and Blood of Jesus Christ received for the remission of sins and life everlasting.

A young Orthodox boy drinks the communion wine

A young Orthodox boy drinks the communion wine

Holy Unction is the religious treatment of the ill. In the Greek Orthodox church a combination of prayers and oil and prescribed to those who feel they need physical or spiritual assistance. Holy Unction can be provided privately, or a group prayer can be announced during the service (Fitzgerald 1)90.

The table in the chapel set up in preparation for an orthodox holy unction

The table in the chapel set up in preparation for an orthodox Holy Unction

Marriage in the Greek Orthodox Church is the religious union of two Orthodox individuals. This ceremony may only be performed by an Orthodox priest on behalf of the community of faith. All members participating in the ceremony such as the κουμπάροι (best man) in order to ensure the continuation of the faith.

The priest leads a Greek Orthodox couple as they take their first steps in holy matrimony.

The priest leads a Greek Orthodox couple as they take their first steps in holy matrimony.

-Athena Amentas