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dpappas87

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I was asked to be a nona (godmother), and I'm helping my best friend plan the baptism for her firstborn son. We're so excited but we want a lot of her family members to be present. I know technically baptisms are supposed to be held inside the church, but has anyone heard of baptisms being outside? She's planning on having the baptism in Greece, and the weather will most likely be very nice. Does anyone know if this is possible?
 
I would say the following could help with a safe Greek baptism (although I am not a Dr.):

- Mandatory masks
- Limit amount of people
- Try to have good ventilation if indoors or outdoor reception after church
- Social distance tables and seat people with same households

Anyway, there are a few things that come to my mind, congrats on being the Nona, it is a huge lifelong honor! :)
 
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I would say the following could help with a safe Greek baptism (although I am not a Dr.):

- Mandatory masks
- Limit amount of people
- Try to have good ventilation if indoors or outdoor reception after church
- Social distance tables and seat people with same households

Anyway, there are a few things that come to my mind, congrats on being the Nona, it is a huge lifelong honor! :)
I would say the same! Try and keep everything outdoors if possible and speak with the priest beforehand and see if they can put the kolibithra outside. If you explain that you want close family (especially elderly) at the baptism, I'm sure they will understand.
 
I was asked to be a nona (godmother), and I'm helping my best friend plan the baptism for her firstborn son. We're so excited but we want a lot of her family members to be present. I know technically baptisms are supposed to be held inside the church, but has anyone heard of baptisms being outside? She's planning on having the baptism in Greece, and the weather will most likely be very nice. Does anyone know if this is possible?
It is not possible to have a Greek wedding outdoors as the physical church is a symbol that is very much part of the service. Perhaps only family be allowed inside and others remain outside until the service is over.
 
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It is not possible to have a Greek wedding outdoors as the physical church is a symbol that is very much part of the service. Perhaps only family be allowed inside and others remain outside until the service is over.
Does this apply to baptisms as well?
 
I would stick with adhering to the church's safety guidelines, and then try to make the celebration afterwards outdoors, with as much social distancing as possible. If that is not possible, maybe you should consider limiting the guest list, having people wear masks, and make sure the room is well ventilated?
 
It is not possible to have a Greek wedding outdoors as the physical church is a symbol that is very much part of the service. Perhaps only family be allowed inside and others remain outside until the service is over.
Actually, I attended a Greek orthodox wedding outdoors in Rhode Island last year by the beach! Apparently it is possible but you have to find a priest willing to setup an altar outside. Not sure exactly what this involves but I know it's possible.
 
Actually, I attended a Greek orthodox wedding outdoors in Rhode Island last year by the beach! Apparently it is possible but you have to find a priest willing to setup an altar outside. Not sure exactly what this involves but I know it's possible.
Thanks for the advice! I guess I just have to find a priest who's a bit more modern, and maybe help with the setup lol
 

Where did plate smashing come from?

When Greeks feel happy and are dancing and have a good time, they've been known to smash plates. I've seen it! It's not just a tourist thing - but they don't do it much because I am sure they won't want to smash their expensive dish wear.

I was just at a wedding and they had purchased plates to smash - so basically they were cheap throwaway plates that actually smashed really well. I almost wonder if they were made for the purpose...

It got me thinking - where did this tradition come from? Does anyone know?

List of Cretan Dances?

I will be attending a Cretan wedding and am curious about the traditional Cretan dances! I know the dances are slightly different and I want to learn some. I don't know the names of the dances so that I can look them up. I did some research, though. Are any of these dances common at these weddings?
  • Pentozali
  • Sousta
  • Siganos
  • Chaniotis
There's a dance the wedding party typically does in Crete. Which dance is that?

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.

Thinking about the Greek way of hospitality...

I thought I would ask your thoughts oh Philoxenia - or the Greek way, or art, of hospitality. I noticed this when I travel in Greece. People are so kind, they often go out of the way for us, when I feel that they don't have to! How can one describe this to someone?

From what I understand, Philoxenia is not merely a practice but a deeply ingrained value within Greek culture that extends far beyond the simple act of hosting. It reflects a genuine, heartfelt welcome to strangers, treating them with the same respect and generosity one would show to a dearly beloved friend. This beautiful tradition, passed down through generations, turns the act of hosting into an art form, embodying warmth, respect, and a profound sense of human compassion. There have been so many stories I can think of...

This thought process was triggered because we were watching My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 - someone in the village had taken on a Syrian refugee. Is this a Greek hospitality thing? Philoxenia?

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.
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