Understanding the Prothalamium Ceremony in Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Weddings

Prothalamium (from Greek "pro" = before, "thalamos" = bridal chamber) is a ceremony or rite performed before the wedding, in some Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic traditions. It is a blessing of the bride and groom, which takes place on the eve of the wedding or sometimes on the day of the wedding itself.

The prothalamium is meant to prepare the couple for their union, to ask God's blessing on their marriage, and to remind them of their commitment to each other and to their faith. The ceremony typically includes prayers, hymns, and the blessing of the bride and groom with holy water and candles.

In some traditions, the prothalamium is followed by a procession to the wedding venue, where the couple is received by the priest and the congregation. The prothalamium is an important part of the wedding celebration and is seen as a way of asking God's blessing on the couple's union.