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nadellii

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In Greek church, we light candles and make a prayer. Its one of my favourite traditions. Candles are usually at the front of the church and you usually add a few coins or dollars in the box besides the candles to "pay" for the candles.

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"I am the light of the world; he who follows me shall not walk in darkness; but will have the light of life." John 8:12

Lighting the candle is the light that guides you as you enter church.
The coins that you refer to "to pay for the candle" is incorrect. Placing "money in the box" is an offering to the church, if you give nothing, something or a lot, this is entirely up to you.
The most important thing is that you have to Gods home for prey. ✝️
 
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"I am the light of the world; he who follows me shall not walk in darkness; but will have the light of life." John 8:12

Lighting the candle is the light that guides you as you enter church.
The coins that you refer to "to pay for the candle" is incorrect. Placing "money in the box" is an offering to the church, if you give nothing, something or a lot, this is entirely up to you.
The most important thing is that you have to Gods home for prey. ✝️
Beautiful, this is very true, thanks for sharing
 
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Beautiful, this is very true, thanks for sharing
I used to light a candle nearly every day on my way through the streets in Mykonos to the Delos Port, stopping by different churches on the way,a quiet moment,a silent wish,a few deep thoughts, letting go of a few, understanding meaning of life, living for the day, hoping and looking forward to whatever lays ahead during the busy summer season...a few coins of offering.. ❤️❤️??!
 
Lighting a candle is a nice moment when we enter the church. I often do it without thinking. Thanks for reminding me how beautiful of an activity is.
 
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Lighting a candle is a nice moment when we enter the church. I often do it without thinking. Thanks for reminding me how beautiful of an activity is.
I agree! When I enter a Greek church, I am always lighting a candle, but I don't put much thought into it.
 
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I agree! When I enter a Greek church, I am always lighting a candle, but I don't put much thought into it.
It is about unconsciously and unconditionally sending light and love to the Universe and the giver of life to us all!.... ♥️?Kalley Mera from Thailand.... Happy Holidays.
 
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It is about unconsciously and unconditionally sending light and love to the Universe and the giver of life to us all!.... ♥️?Kalley Mera from Thailand.... Happy Holidays.
Happy Holidays!
 
Something similar happened to my aunt—her test results got buried in her inbox, and by the time she followed up, things had progressed. It’s scary how small things like a missed email can have such big consequences. Since then, she’s been more mindful, even started using a traditional incense burner during her self-checks to create a calm space. Little rituals help her stay grounded.
 
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Greek New Year Traditions?

I was thinking about Greek New Year’s and realized how different it can look depending on the family. Some people keep it very simple, others have a full house, food on the table, and specific traditions they do every year.

In my family, the focus was always on being together, cutting the vasilopita, and easing into the new year rather than making a big spectacle of it. I know some families stay up late, some go to church, and others treat it more like a quiet reset after the holidays.

I’m curious how others celebrate. Do you have any specific New Year’s traditions that feel especially Greek to you? Is there something you do every year without thinking about it, or something that only makes sense inside your family? I’d love to hear how people mark the start of the year.

How was your experience using a virtual concierge at a luxury resort?

Booked a fancy resort for a once-in-a-blue-moon getaway, and they keep hyping up this “virtual concierge” thing like it’s the next big miracle. I’m kinda torn. Part of me loves the idea of ditching phone calls, but part of me worries it’ll feel cold or glitchy, like talking to a chat bot instead of a real human who actually cares if my room smells weird or if I need extra towels. If you’ve used one before, was it helpful or just marketing fluff? I’m trying to figure out if I should trust it or just stick to the front desk.

Greek Tsiknopempti Traditions?

I realized Tsiknopempti is coming up soon, and it made me curious how everyone celebrates it, especially outside of Greece. Growing up, I always associated it with grilled meat, lots of smoke in the air, and a general feeling of celebration before Lent started, but we never had a really structured tradition at home. Now I’m wondering if I should start one.

Do you usually grill at home, go out to a Greek restaurant, or gather with friends and family? Are there certain foods you always make, or is it more about the atmosphere and being together? I’ve seen photos from Greece where entire neighborhoods are grilling outside, which looks amazing.

I’d love to hear what Tsiknopempti looks like for you, whether it’s something big and festive or just a simple meal that still feels meaningful.

Decorating the Christmas Boat?

I’ve always loved seeing photos of the decorated Greek Christmas boat, but I’ve never actually done it myself. This year I’m thinking of finally giving the tradition a try, and I’d love some guidance from those who grew up with it or still decorate one at home.

How do you choose the size or style of the boat? Do people usually use a wooden model, something handmade, or even a simple paper version? I’m also curious about how it’s decorated, is it mostly lights and ribbons, or are there specific colors and symbols that carry meaning? And where in the house do you typically place it?

I’ve read that the tradition goes back to honoring sailors and welcoming loved ones home for the holidays, which I find beautiful. If anyone has stories, photos, or tips for creating a first Christmas boat, I’d love to hear them.

What are your favorite name day traditions?

I’ve always loved the tradition of celebrating name days. In my family, they’re just as meaningful as birthdays, and sometimes even more fun because they bring everyone together in a different way.

When a big name day comes around, especially one that several family members share, we often turn it into a full family gathering. For example, on a name day like Nick/Nikolas, where there might be multiple people celebrating, it becomes almost like a mini family holiday. Someone hosts, there’s plenty of food, and everyone comes by to wish the celebrants “chronia polla.”

I also like the simplicity of the tradition. Even if there isn’t a big gathering, people still call or send messages to acknowledge the day.

Do you celebrate name days in your family? And are there certain ones that turn into larger celebrations because several people share the name?
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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