The Orthodox fasting calendar: a simple guide to the year
The major fasting seasons, what "relaxation" of the fast means and why your spiritual father is your best guide.
Read moreHerman
Editor, Convivia
All articles by Herman
Baptism registration and baptism certificates in Greece: what you need
A baptism is a joyful day. A little planning around the paperwork keeps it that way.
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The Orthodox memorial service: when it takes place and what you need
A gentle guide for families: the memorials of the first year, the Trisagion, kollyva and arranging things with the priest.
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Euro and SEPA donations: transparency for the parish council
From the church box to SEPA transfers: how a parish can keep a clear picture of every gift.
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Name days: a simple way to keep the community close
A short greeting can make a parishioner feel they belong. Here is how to organise it simply.
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From notebook to screen: how a parish organises its members
A practical guide to moving your parish register to digital without the stress.
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Organising a parish Sunday school with order, safety and joy
A practical guide for priests and catechists: how to form groups, how to keep parents informed, and how to protect children and their personal data.
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An Orthodox wedding: what you need, in what order, and how to work with your parish
From the first call to the parish to the day of the sacrament: the steps, the paperwork in broad terms and the questions worth asking early.
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The Greek name day calendar: how the εορτολόγιο works and how parishes use it
Why some feasts keep the same date every year while others move with Pascha, how to find when a name is celebrated, and what that means for a parish.
Read moreThe Philoptochos fund: organising help with discretion and dignity
Practical ways to run a Philoptochos that helps in real terms, respects the dignity of families and reports transparently.
Read moreParish communication: good practice for Viber, email and announcements
How to keep the parish informed without overwhelming anyone, and without forgetting those who do not use a smartphone.
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GDPR for parishes: a practical guide for the parish office
What the General Data Protection Regulation means for a parish, in plain words, with practical steps for everyday work.
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