It is not a legal contract or personal agreement, but a divine act of grace in which God joins the couple together.
The couple’s relationship is rooted in the love and self-sacrifice of Christ for His Church.
It is celebrated liturgically, in the presence of the faithful, and under the guidance of a canonical Orthodox priest.
It is a spiritual journey, where both husband and wife are called to grow in love, humility, forgiveness, and holiness together.
Marriage preparation in Orthodoxy is as much spiritual as it is practical. We encourage couples to:
Participate regularly in the Divine Liturgy
Prepare to receive Holy Communion
Make a Holy Confession
Spend time in prayer and fasting before the wedding
Father will guide you through this process and answer all your questions. You are not alone — the Church is here to support you.
Couples must meet with the priest well in advance
of the wedding to:
Discuss the sacrament and its meaning
Review the service
Complete the required paperwork
Receive spiritual guidance and practical support
A minimum of two or three preparatory meetings is typically scheduled.
Marriage within the Church also means joining the life of the Church. We encourage couples to become active participants in the parish community, treating it as their spiritual home.
Becoming a member of the parish allows you to be part of a spiritual family that supports you in your new life together.
In Orthodox tradition, each wedding includes a Koumbaros (male sponsor) or Koumbara (female sponsor) — an important figure who:
Participates directly in the Sacrament (blessing of rings, crowning, etc.)
Supports the couple spiritually
Acts as a lifelong witness and guide
Sponsors must be Orthodox Christians in good standing. If you’re unsure who to choose or need help, please speak with the priest.
The Orthodox Church teaches that to be united in Christ is to be united to His Body — the Church. Therefore, a marriage in the Church implies active membership in the life of the parish, including spiritual growth, charitable work, and support of the Church community.
Your ongoing involvement, whether through time, talent, or stewardship, helps strengthen not only your marriage, but the entire Body of Christ.
All weddings must be booked well in advance. Contact the parish office to begin the process.
A valid marriage license is required and should be brought to the parish before the service.
Optional, but recommended. A brief rehearsal can be scheduled with Father to ensure all participants understand their roles.
Must be discreet and respectful of the sacred nature of the service. Please consult with the priest before the wedding day.
To begin preparing for your Orthodox wedding at Holy Cross – St. Nektarios, please contact:
Father Alexander
(705) 726-9875
StNektariosGOC@gmail.com
We are here to walk with you every step of the way.
