What to Wear When Mourning (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)

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I tell you, my friends, don't be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom you should fear. Fear him, who after he has killed, has power to cast into Gehenna. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Aren't five sparrows sold for two assaria coins? Not one of them is forgotten by God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore don't be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows. I tell you, everyone who confesses me before men, him will the Son of Man also confess before the angels of God; but he who denies me in the presence of men will be denied in the presence of the angels of God.

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	What to Wear When Mourning (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)

QUESTION:

Are orthodox Christians required to wear black when mourning a family member and, if so, for how long is the wearing of black required?

ANSWER:

There is no requirement in the Orthodox Church that those in mourning must wear black. While there are some Orthodox who do this, and while the custom is especially ingrained in many foreign countries and cultures, it is not a teaching or requirement of the Church. In fact, one generally finds that at funerals, the clergy wear white rather than black, as our mourning is observed in the hope we hold in the resurrection and the eternal life God promises those who place their faith and hope in His love -- hope that is best signified by white, rather than black, garb.

Published in January 2011.

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