Cremation is an option growing in popularity as an alternative to burial or entombment. Almost all major religions recognize cremation as an appropriate means of disposition. Cremation can be less expensive than traditional burial, yet can be designed to be a ceremonious and tasteful departure. As simple as cremation sounds, there are still many choices in the types of gatherings that it can include.

Direct Cremation
People who prefer not to have any service or gathering can choose a direct cremation. In this case, after the funeral director completes the appropriate paperwork, the cremation is performed without any type of viewing or service. The cremated remains (called cremains) are returned to the family members after the process is complete.

Cremation followed by a Memorial Service
A memorial service is held after the cremation takes place, and oftentimes, the cremains are present. The memorial service can be tailored to each family's wishes, and often includes pictures, music, memorabilia, awards, and poetry or scripture readings that reflect the personal taste of the deceased or of the surviving family. If the cremains are present, an urn is usually desired. Urns come in many styles and materials that can also personify the lifestyle of the deceased.

Funeral Service with Cremation following
Increasingly popular, is the option of traditional funeral services or Mass of Christian Burial, with the cremation following. In these cases, a casket can be rented or a special cremation casket can be purchased so that a viewing can be held and the deceased can be present during the service or the Mass. Many experts in the study of grief have long felt that a viewing and funeral service help begin a healthy grieving process. This option gives families the closure that is recommended, while cremation can still proceed.

Catholic Rules on Cremation
The Church recommends that Catholics should be interred in the traditional manner. In 1964, The Vatican said that those who have their bodies cremated are no longer to be denied Christian Burial unless their motive for doing so was to deny the teaching of the Church.

In 1998, an indult was granted by Rome to allow cremated remains in Church for the Funeral Liturgy. Permission to allow cremated remains to be present for Mass may be granted by the Parish Priest on an individual basis. The preferred practice is to have the body present for the Liturgy with cremation occurring later.

The practice of scattering the cremains is not permitted as it is not in keeping with the dignity and respect that are due human remains. The Guidelines call for the cremains to be interred or entombed in the Cemetery. Cremains should not be kept in either the family home or funeral home!

Excerpt from the Catholic Cemeteries, Inc. Guidelines

Home | Preplanning | Traditional Options | Cremation Options
Veteran Information | Aftercare | Meet the Staff
Directions | Truly Unique | Contact Us