Choice Cremation

Grief is a highly personal and individual journey. The way we handle it and the choices we make during the process are vital to healing. The decision to choose cremation over traditional burial involves multiple factors. In this article, we explore the concept of choice cremation – its pros and cons, its spiritual and environmental impact, and the comfort it provides for grieving families.

Understanding Choice Cremation

Choice cremation is a funeral option where the body is burnt to ashes post the demise. As compared to traditional funeral arrangements, it offers various benefits to grieving families.

Why Do Many Families Opt for Cremation?

The decision to opt for a crematory process could be due to:

• Situational factors: When the family is scattered and cannot attend a traditional funeral.
• Ecological reasons: Cremation mitigates the need for real estate and limits the environmental workload.
• Economic factors: Cremation is a cost-effective alternative to traditional burial.

What Happens During a Crematory Process?

During cremation, the body is placed in a casket or container that is then placed in a crematory. Once the body is reduced to bone fragments, they are further pulverized to the consistency of coarse sand.

Memorialization of Cremated Remains

Families can decide to keep the ashes in urns, scatter them in a special place, bury them or, even make them into keepsakes.

Choice Cremation Example:

A family was spread across the globe and couldn't gather immediately when their matriarch passed away. They opted for choice cremation. A cozy memorial service was held at a later date, accommodating all family members' schedules. Each person received a keepsake containing a small portion of ashes, fostering a feeling of closeness and connection to their beloved matriarch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is choice cremation?

Choice cremation is a method of final body disposition where the deceased's body is incinerated at high temperatures, typically in a specialized chamber, resulting in ashes. It is considered a flexible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option, which allows families to choose how they wish to handle the remains afterward.

How does the cremation process work?

The cremation process involves placing the body in a combustible container, which is then put into a cremation chamber. The chamber, heated to around 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, reduces the body to ashes and bone fragments within a few hours. These remains are then processed into a fine consistency and returned to the family.

Is cremation more affordable than traditional burial?

Yes, generally, cremation is more affordable than traditional burial. There are fewer costs associated with cremation since there is no need for embalming, a casket, or a burial plot, which are typically costly components of a conventional burial service.

Can we have a funeral service with cremation?

Absolutely. Many families choose to have a traditional funeral service before cremation. Others may opt for a memorial service after cremation, where the urn containing the ashes may or may not be present.

What can be done with the ashes after cremation?

Post-cremation, families have several options: keeping the ashes in an urn, scattering them in a meaningful place, burying them in a cemetery, placing them in a columbarium niche, or incorporating them into jewelry or other memorial items.

Do religious beliefs allow cremation?

Attitudes towards cremation vary among different religions. Some religions, like Hinduism and Buddhism, prefer cremation, while others have historically been opposed but are becoming more accepting. It is best to consult with spiritual leaders of your faith for guidance.

Is a casket needed for cremation?

No, a traditional casket is not necessary for cremation. However, the body must be placed in a rigid, combustible container for the process. Some choose to rent a casket for a service beforehand if desired.

Can family members witness the cremation?

Many crematories allow family members to be present at the start of the cremation process. It's important to ask the specific facility about their policies regarding witnessing the cremation.

How long does it take to receive the ashes after cremation?

The time frame can vary based on the crematory's schedule and procedures, but typically, families receive the ashes within 7-10 days after the cremation.

Do we need permission to scatter ashes?

Yes, you often need permission to scatter ashes, especially on public land or at sea. The regulations vary by location, so it's important to check local laws and obtain any necessary permits.

Are the ashes the only remains after cremation?

After the cremation, the remaining bone fragments are further processed into a consistent granular form. These constitute the "ashes" that are returned to the family, which are actually a mixture of bone fragments and ashes.

Is embalming required before cremation?

Embalming is not a requirement for cremation. Some situations, such as a public viewing or if the cremation cannot occur immediately, may necessitate embalming. It is best to consult with your funeral provider.

How is a cremation urn chosen?

Choosing a cremation urn depends on how the ashes will be handled post-cremation. Consider the size, material, and design reflecting the loved one's personality or your intended use, such as display, burial, or scattering.

Can multiple cremations be performed at once?

Legally and ethically, crematories must perform each cremation individually to ensure the respectful handling of remains and to provide certainty that the ashes returned are those of the correct individual.

What happens during a direct cremation?

Direct cremation refers to a cremation process that happens shortly after death without a preceding funeral service. After completing the necessary paperwork and legal requirements, the body is cremated, and the ashes are returned to the family.

Can personal items be cremated with the body?

Some personal items may be cremated with the body, but it depends on the item's material and the crematorium's policy. Flammable items that do not emit harmful gases when burned are generally allowed.

How are remains returned to the family?

Remains are typically returned to the family in a temporary urn provided by the crematory or in an urn purchased by the family. They are usually ready for pick-up or can be shipped if proper arrangements are made.

Is cremation environmentally friendly?

Cremation is often seen as more environmentally friendly than traditional burial because it uses less land and avoids the chemicals used in embalming. However, it does use fossil fuels and releases emissions, so the environmental impact can vary. Some facilities offer greener options such as bio-cremation, which uses water and less energy.

Can we still have a commemorative service without the body present?

Yes, families can hold a commemorative or memorial service without the body present. This service can take place before or after the cremation and can be tailored to the family's wishes, offering a time for loved ones to gather and remember the deceased.

What legal documentation is required for cremation?

Legal documentation for cremation typically includes a death certificate and a cremation authorization form signed by next of kin. In some cases, additional permits or paperwork may be required depending on the state or locality's regulations.

The decision to proceed with a choice cremation is deeply personal. Remember, it's about providing a respectful send-off to your loved one in a way that aligns with their wishes and beliefs. Undeniably, the choice of cremation has made the process of farewell more flexible and suited to the needs of modern families. We hope this article assists you in making an informed choice. If you found it useful, please share it with those who might benefit from this information. Remember to browse other guides on Eulogy Assistant for more advice on navigating these difficult times.