1. The Diocese insists that only organ music be played in church. The bishop’s order of Aug. 22, 1996 states: “harps, trumpets, flutes, violins and any and all other instruments are not authorized or permitted to be used and played during weddings (or other services, for that matter). This is not a new practice or directive. Please do not call seeking dispensation or permission. It will not be granted.”
2. Regarding the music played, classical and religious pieces are appropriate. NO ROCK or POP MUSIC, please!
3. The organists work independently of the church. It is not required to have an organist, but if you choose to do so, each has his/her set fee.
4. Suggested organists: Mary Lambert 216-464-1993 or Alex Leybkind 216-731-2081
5. For decorating purposes, there are 18 pews on either side of the church and the last 2 are indented in our church. The aisle is 67 feet long.
6. Flowers should be in good taste. Orthodox Churches are well decorated with icons; thus, excessive flowers are unnecessary.
7. Rice or bird seed may be thrown outside the church only. Flower petals are not permitted. Please use caution. These items make the floor within the church very slippery.
8. Items needed: stefana (wedding crowns), two large candles (usually decorated with a ribbon), and a handful of koufeta (Jordan almonds) for the tray. These are the responsibilities of the Koumbaro (wedding sponsor).
9. The Koumbaro must be a practicing Orthodox Christian. If he/she is married, the marriage must have been blessed in an Orthodox Church. He/she must be a contributing member of an Orthodox Church. A letter verifying these conditions should be obtained from his/her parish a month or so before the wedding and brought or mailed to Sts. Constantine & Helen Cathedral, 3352 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118 no later than the rehearsal day.
10. The service may be totally in English, totally in Greek or a combination of both. Fr. Stephen will ask the bride and groom what their wish is at the rehearsal or on the day of the wedding.
11. The service lasts about 40 minutes.
12. The civil marriage license should be brought to the wedding rehearsal. If Fr. Stephen is not present, it could be slide under his office door.
13. An ecclesiastical marriage license must be obtained about a month before the wedding. Fr. Stephen may advise you concerning proper documentation for the application.
14. The priest and cantor serve at the wedding as part of their responsibilities to the church. Honoraria are not required.
15. Fr. Stephen does not presume to be invited to the wedding reception, nor are you obligated to invite him. If you would like him to attend, please send an invitation.
(It is customary that a prayer be offered before the meal at the reception. Again, Fr. Stephen does not presume that he will say a prayer; if you wish please ask him to do so.)
16. The Sts. Constantine and Helen Choir is sometimes asked to sing at weddings. Please keep in mind that the choir members are volunteers and are not obliged to accept an invitation. A minimum donation to the choir of $150 is expected.
17. Please ask your florist to arrange a time for flower delivery with the church office sometime during the week prior to the wedding. Normally the church is open about two hours prior to the service, but this is not always possible.