FAQs

Question

When should I RSVP by?

Answer

We would like to know whether or not you can join us on our special day by May 31st.

Question

What time should I arrive at the ceremony?

Answer

In order to guarantee a good seat at the ceremony, we would recommend arriving by 2:45.

Question

What does the marriage service look like in the Orthodox Church?

Answer

All of the elements of the Eastern Orthodox Christian wedding service are deeply symbolic, and are meant to emulate the image and beauty of this mystery, the sacred union between man and woman, as a direct parallel of the relationship between Christ and His Church. If you have never witnessed this sacrament performed in an Orthodox manner, we invite you to read about the service here: https://stannesorthodox.ca/orthodox-faith/marriage-service/

Question

Why is the priest referring to Olivia as Xenia during the ceremony?

Answer

The sacrament of Holy Matrimony is administered just like any other sacrament of The Church (Holy Communion, Confession, Chrismation, Baptism, etc.). When Olivia was Chrismated as an Orthodox Christian in 2022, she took a patron saint: St. Xenia of St. Petersburg (read her life here: https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2024/01/24/100297-blessed-xenia-of-st-petersburg). When receiving any sacrament, the faithful go by the name of their patron saint. Olivia also goes by Xenia in and among her church community.