Greek Wedding, Astoria, NY, 1973

The priest leads the newlyweds, Belitsos and Janos, three times around the sacramental table in a liturgical dance, looked upon as an expression of joy. Their circling is a symbol of eternity which reminds the couple that marriage is a lifetime commitment.

Katrina Thomas's notes: The Greek Orthodox nuptial rite consists of two parts: the Betrothal and the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony, during which ancient hymns and chants are sung while various rituals are performed three times, representing the Holy Trinity. The couple makes no vows. The best man or sponsor, the koumbaros, exchanges their rings three times as well as their wedding crowns, known as stephana, three times over their heads. The rite is finalized by the priest leading the couple three times around the altar table. On the table is the Gospel, the Cross and koufetta, bittersweet fresh almonds, symbolizing that marriage has both good and bad in it. Coated with sugar, they are distributed to guests in the hope that the couple will have more good luck than bad.