Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services

What is Cremation, and Why is it Becoming So Popular?

Cremation is a funeral practice that involves reducing a body to its basic elements through high-temperature burning. It's an ancient tradition that's been used for thousands of years, but it's only recently gained popularity in the Western world. Today, over 50% of Americans choose cremation over traditional burial, and the numbers are rising.

So, what's driving this trend? For one, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option. Traditional burials require embalming fluids, caskets, and land use, which can have a significant impact on the environment. Cremation, on the other hand, uses minimal resources and produces few emissions. It's also a more affordable option, with costs averaging 30-50% less than traditional burial.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

If you're considering cremation, you might be wondering what the process entails. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand what happens:

• Initial Preparation: Our team will prepare your loved one for cremation, which may include washing and dressing them in a ceremonial outfit.
• Cremation Chamber: The body is placed in a cremation chamber, where it's exposed to high temperatures (typically between 1400°C and 1800°C) for 1-2 hours.
• Processing the Remains: After cremation, the remains are processed into a fine powder, known as cremated remains or ashes.
• Return of the Remains: The cremated remains are returned to you in an urn or container, which can be used for scattering, burial, or display.

Types of Cremation Services: Finding the Right Fit for You

At Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services, we offer a range of cremation services to fit your needs and preferences. Here are some of the options:

• Direct Cremation: A simple, cost-effective option that involves cremation without a funeral service.
• Cremation with Memorial Service: A cremation followed by a memorial service, which can be held at our funeral home, a church, or another location of your choice.
• Full-Service Cremation: A traditional funeral service followed by cremation, which can include a viewing, visitation, and graveside service.

Cremation Urns and Containers: Honoring Your Loved One's Memory

Once the cremation process is complete, you'll need to choose an urn or container to hold the cremated remains. We offer a wide range of options, from traditional urns to eco-friendly biodegradable containers.

Some popular choices include:

• Traditional Urns: Made from materials like metal, wood, or ceramic, these urns are designed for display or burial.
• Biodegradable Urns: Made from natural materials like bamboo, recycled paper, or salt, these urns are designed to decompose over time.
• Scattering Urns: Designed for scattering the cremated remains in a special location, these urns are often made from biodegradable materials.

Scattering Cremated Remains: A Meaningful Way to Say Goodbye

Scattering cremated remains can be a powerful way to say goodbye to your loved one. Here are some popular options:

• Land Scattering: Scattering the remains in a special location, such as a park, forest, or mountain.
• Sea Scattering: Scattering the remains at sea, often accompanied by a ceremony or ritual.
• Aerial Scattering: Scattering the remains from an airplane, often over a special location or landmark.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cremation

Here are some answers to common questions about cremation:

1. Is cremation a safe process?

Yes, cremation is a safe and regulated process. Our cremation chamber is designed to minimize emissions and ensure a dignified process.

2. Can I still have a funeral service with cremation?

Absolutely. We offer a range of cremation services, including full-service cremation with a funeral service.

3. What happens to the cremated remains?

The cremated remains are returned to you in an urn or container, which can be used for scattering, burial, or display.

4. Is cremation more environmentally friendly than traditional burial?

Yes, cremation is a more environmentally friendly option, as it uses minimal resources and produces few emissions.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

At Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services, we're committed to supporting you every step of the way. Here are some resources to help you navigate the cremation process:

• Pre-Planning: We offer pre-planning services to help you make informed decisions about your funeral arrangements.
• Grief Support: Our team is here to provide emotional support and guidance as you navigate the grieving process.
• Community Resources: We can connect you with local support groups, counseling services, and other resources to help you cope with your loss.

Remember, you're not alone in this journey. We're here to support you every step of the way.