Sacraments
“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”
– John 3:5
Holy Baptism
Spiritual Renewal and Welcoming
Holy Baptism marks the beginning of life in Christ and is one of the most treasured celebrations in the Serbian Orthodox family. Through blessed water, prayer, and anointing with Holy Chrism, the newly baptized is spiritually renewed and welcomed into the Body of Christ and the life of the Church.
Immersion in the font signifies new life and a fresh beginning, while the kum or kuma promises to guide the child or adult in faith and worship. Often dressed in white and surrounded by loved ones, the baptized joins the parish community and begins a lifelong journey of belonging, growth, and grace.
“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” — 1 Corinthians 13
Weddings
Joyful and Sacred Ceremony
In the Serbian Orthodox Church, the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony is a joyful and sacred union in which a man and woman are joined before God, their families, and the parish community. More than a ceremony, marriage is a holy covenant grounded in love, faithfulness, and shared spiritual purpose.
The service is rich with tradition and symbolism: rings exchanged as signs of eternal commitment, crowns placed upon the couple to honor their responsibility to lead their home with humility and devotion, and the common cup representing the joys and challenges of life lived together. The ceremonial walk around the Gospel marks their first steps as husband and wife in Christ, while the kum and kuma stand as lifelong witnesses and supporters of their marriage.
Often followed by music, fellowship, and the joyful spirit of kolo dancing, the celebration beautifully blends faith and Serbian heritage, reminding the couple that their life together is strengthened by prayer, community, and God’s abiding grace.
And for wedding catering and venue options, please go to Holy Trinity’s Catering website, Four Seas Venue – www.vourseasvenue.com
Holy Trinity’s Event and
Catering Venue
Celebrate life’s most meaningful moments in Holy Trinity’s elegant reception space at The Four Seas Venue, which offers a beautiful, welcoming setting for weddings, baptisms, and memorial gatherings. Seating up to 300 guests, our fully accessible hall features linens, china, centerpieces, cushioned chairs, and space for a band or DJ, all included with transparent, all-in pricing. Freshly prepared cuisine, professional staff, private parking with security, and a dedicated coordinator ensure every detail is effortless. Recently remodeled with chandeliers, patio seating, and modern amenities, we’re conveniently located near Soulard and Lafayette Park, ready to host your special day.
“But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus… For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, comfort one another with these words.”
— 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
Funerals
Hope, Honor and Parish Support
The funeral service in the Serbian Orthodox tradition is a solemn yet hope-filled time of prayer, remembrance, and loving farewell. While we grieve the loss of someone dear to us, we gather as a community to entrust their soul to God’s mercy and to find comfort in the promise of eternal life.
Through sacred hymns, incense, and heartfelt prayers, the Church asks the Lord to grant the departed rest, peace, and forgiveness. Family and friends come forward to offer a final goodbye, often followed by the blessing of koljivo, the memorial wheat that symbolizes resurrection and life everlasting.
Memorial services and continued prayers throughout the year honor the memory of the departed and support those who mourn. Surrounded by the strength of the parish family, we are reminded that we do not grieve alone and that love, faith, and hope endure even in times of sorrow.