Principles Regarding Cremation

When cremation is chosen, the church prefers that the body be cremated after the funeral, thus allowing for the presence of the body at the funeral Mass.  When circumstances require it, however, cremation and committal may take place even before the funeral liturgy.

All the usual rites which are celebrated in the presence of the body of the deceased may also be celebrated in the presence of the cremated remains.

The primary symbols of the Roman Catholic funeral liturgy are retained even when the funeral liturgy is celebrated in the presence of the cremated remains. The remains should be treated with the same dignity and respect as the body. 

They may be carried in procession and/or placed on a table where the coffin normally would be.  The paschal candle and sprinkling with holy water are primary symbols of baptism and should be used during the funeral Mass.  However, the pall is not used. 

Photographs and other mementos may be used at the vigil, but are not appropriate for the Mass.

 “Cremated remains may be buried in a grave, entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium or even buried at sea.”  The practice of scattering cremated remains on the sea, from the air, or on the ground is not permitted. 

Likewise, “keeping cremated remains in the home of a relative or friend of the deceased are not the reverent disposition that the church requires.”  The principle of respect for the cremated remains of a deceased Christian mirrors the respect afforded their body. 

The body is always laid to rest with solemnity and dignity.

~ All references taken from the Order of Christian Funerals, Appendix: Cremation; 1997.