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kcixcy

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I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
 
I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
It pretty much consists of dinner and dancing...thats about it ahaha
 
I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
We do dress up for church and the reception follows the ceremony so you will be dressed up. The celebration is like a shower. You naturally eat a meal, bring gifts, and ooh and ahh at the baby. Enjoy....
 
We do dress up for church and the reception follows the ceremony so you will be dressed up. The celebration is like a shower. You naturally eat a meal, bring gifts, and ooh and ahh at the baby. Enjoy....
Oohing and ahing at the baby is my favorite part!
 
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I've never really been to a Greek baptism or a Greek wedding reception. I've heard a lot about the baptism itself and I'm aware of what happens at the ceremony (my friend is the godmother of the child), but I don't know much about the reception... what should I expect? And how should I dress? Do they tend to be formal or casual? The baptism reception that I am attending is being held in a banquet hall.
You will enjoy it for sure.... lovely ceremony, prayers for all,the little one being bathed in holy water and olive oil I think?....
And of course the oohing and ahhing from the baby!...lots of presents and goodies all around.... Celebrations,fun and Greek dancing.. Kalley Mera!
 
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A baptism reception is similar to a wedding reception, it is a celebration after the ceremony which happens in a church :)
 
I would say dress in similar clothes as you would going to church in your "Sunday best" but a little more elevated to that ... Greeks dress "To the Nines". The reception is often at a function hall, local restaurant, or someone's home or in the church hall. No matter where the reception is, you should dress as you would for a day wedding.
 

When does Orthodox lent start this year?

I noticed our Easter is late - May 5th - but Western Easter is at the end of March. Has Lent already started for them? When does our Lent start?

This year, I plan to do a stricter Lenten fast, so I want to plan some things out in advance.

Lent is a time for introspection, repentance, and spiritual growth. Through the dedicated practice of fasting, prayer, and charity, believers seek not only to grow closer to God but also to better understand themselves in relation to God’s will.

Greek Naming Traditions?

I have noticed that in Greece, there are some traditions associated with naming their children. Although some Greek families in the United States have done this, many have seemed to lose the traditions.

Does anyone know what some of these traditions are? I am helping a friend name his upcoming child... Here's some of what I have learned:

1. Firstborn daughter names after maternal grandmother
2. Firstborn son named after paternal grandfather
3. Firstborn son named after father

Those are the ones I have figured out. I don't know what is traditional from Greece and what has just been made up amongst Greeks in the US.

Greek Easter Family Traditions

I am curious what your family traditions are for Greek Easter. I know lent hasn't even started yet, but I've started doing some planning to make sure my family has all of its traditions all set. Sometimes it takes me a while to find ingredients for some of the foods I serve, etc.

Of course we spend Holy Week in church. We do our best to fast during Lent, and once Easter comes, it's all about serving our traditional dishes. This year I might spend part of lent in Greece to visit some religious sites.

What do you guys all do?

Tips for Learning and Teaching Greek

I know how to speak Greek okay, but I am not great at it. I want to brush up on my skills, and I also want to teach some of my family members. I am good enough at it to the learn the basics. I am looking for advice, but I've also compiled some ideas:

1. Spend an extended period of time in Greece

There’s no better way to learn Greek than to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Greece. If you have the opportunity, consider spending an extended time in Greece, studying or working, taking a sabbatical, or just exploring the country. Living in Greece can help you understand the nuances of the language, such as the different accents, dialects, and slang that are used. You’ll also have the chance to practice your Greek with locals, watch Greek TV or films, and read Greek books or newspapers. I would imagine this is the best way to learn fast!

2. Use a language program

If you can’t travel to Greece or you prefer a more structured approach to learning Greek, consider using a language program. There are many language programs available online or in your local area, ranging from self-paced courses to interactive classes. Some popular language programs for Greek include Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Pimsleur. From what I understand these are all great options and I can learn at my own pace.

3. Take classes

Taking classes is another excellent way to learn Greek, especially if you prefer face-to-face interaction and feedback. You can find Greek language classes in community colleges, universities, language schools, or private tutors. Taking classes can help you improve your Greek skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You’ll have a teacher who can guide you through the learning process, answer your questions, and give you homework or assignments that challenge you. You’ll also have classmates who share your passion for Greek and can practice with you.

4. Find ways to immerse yourself outside of Greece

Even if you can’t go to Greece or attend classes, you can still immerse yourself in Greek in your daily life. One way is to find Greek-speaking communities or events in your area, such as cultural centers, festivals, or meetups. You can also use online resources to connect with Greek speakers, such as language exchange websites, social media groups, or chat apps. Listening to Greek music, watching Greek videos or podcasts, or reading Greek literature can also help you familiarize yourself with the sounds and patterns of the language.

Honestly, I plan to try all 4 - whatever I can do. I think it will all help.

Navigating Greek Lenten Fasting - Advice?

Lent is here and all my friends and family have been asking "what are you doing for lent this year?" They're all "giving something up" but I decided I wanted to fast. I would love your help and advice because this is the first time I am doing things in a stricter way. I resolve to see it through!

It's supposed to be a a time of reflection, purification, and preparation for the celebration of Easter, and the diet plays a significant part in this spiritual journey. I don't want to get so obsessed with the "rules" that I lose myself in them and forget why I am fasting int he first place.

Thanks in advance!
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