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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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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.

How does your family celebrate?

I’d love to hear how everyone here celebrates Christmas in their own Greek way, whether you’re in Greece or part of the diaspora. Every family I know seems to have its own version of the holiday, shaped by region, faith, and generations of habits. Some homes revolve around church and fasting, others around baking marathons and big family tables, and others around quiet gatherings with just a few people.

Do you celebrate on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or both? Are there specific foods that absolutely have to be on your table every year? Do you make Christopsomo, melomakarona, kourabiedes, or something unique to your family’s region? I’m especially curious about traditions that came from grandparents or villages that maybe aren’t as common anymore.

If you feel like sharing, I’d love to read about the rituals, foods, church customs, music, or even small personal traditions that make Greek Christmas feel like Christmas to you.

Greek Baptism Traditions?

I’ve been to quite a few Greek baptisms over the years — mostly family and friends’ children — but I realize I’ve never really stopped to think about the deeper traditions behind them. For me, it’s always been a joyful occasion with a big gathering, lots of food, and plenty of dancing afterward.

Lately though, I’ve been curious to learn more about what actually happens beyond the surface. I know the godparent (nouno/nouna) is important, and I’ve noticed the priest using oil and the baby being dipped in the font, but I don’t fully understand the meaning behind those rituals.

Are there particular customs that make Greek baptisms unique compared to other Christian traditions? Do certain items always have to be provided, or does it vary by family? And are there regional differences across Greece in how the celebration is done?

Favorite Greek Christmas traditions?

I’m curious to hear everyone’s favorite Greek Christmas traditions, especially the ones that feel extra meaningful or unique to your family. I’ve been learning more about Greek culture and food this past year, and now I’m fascinated by how the holidays are celebrated in different regions.

I know about a few of the well-known traditions, like baking melomakarona and kourabiedes, decorating the small wooden karavaki (Christmas boat), and, of course, the incredible Christmas and New Year’s feasts. But I’d love to learn more about the customs that don’t get talked about as often.

Do you follow any local traditions from your village or island? Do you bake certain breads, sing kalanta, or do something special on Christmas Eve or St. Basil’s Day? I’m especially interested in the rituals that have been passed down through families. I am learning about Greek cooking and also about the culture.

Information About Apokries?

I’ve been curious about how people experience Apokries and what it looks like in different parts of Greece. For some, it seems centered on big public celebrations and costumes, while for others it’s more about smaller gatherings, food, and local customs.

I’m especially interested in the traditions people grew up with. Was Apokries something your family actively celebrated, or did it feel more like a community event? Did you attend costume parties, parades, or specific local festivities? And how did days like Tsiknopempti fit into it for you?

I’d also love to hear whether your experience changed over time, for example, celebrating differently as a child versus as an adult, or noticing differences between village and city celebrations.

For those who no longer live in Greece, do you still mark Apokries in some way, or has it faded with distance?

I’m looking forward to hearing how this tradition shows up for others.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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