Every reference to events in the life of a deceased person can be considered a memorial, e.g., literary, political, legal, scientific, or national memorial.

However, for the most part, a Memorial refers to the religious ceremony held in the Orthodox Church for the repose of the souls of the deceased.

The memorial service is always conducted with the Divine Liturgy.

The Divine Liturgy is the main part of the memorial service.

What is needed for a memorial service:

• Timely communication with the church

• A tray of boiled wheat (kollyva) *

• A prosphoron (offering bread)

• A bottle of oil for the lamps

• A bottle of wine for the Holy Communion

• Three candles for the Holy Table

• A packet of charcoal

• A packet of incense

* Kollyva (Made from boiled wheat kernels, sweetened with sugar and flavored with spices such as cinnamon and clove. Other ingredients, such as raisins, nuts, and pomegranate seeds, can also be added to enhance the flavors and textures. Wheat symbolizes the Resurrection, according to the words of Christ: “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:24))

The purpose of the memorial service:

• To remind us of the faith in the Resurrection and eternal life.

• To offer comfort to the relatives and friends.