Cremation Society of RI

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

Cremation is a funeral practice that involves reducing a deceased person's body to its basic elements through high-temperature burning. This process has been around for thousands of years, but it's only recently gained popularity in the United States.

According to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), the cremation rate in the US is expected to reach 78.4% by 2035. So, what's driving this shift? For many, it's about the environmental benefits – traditional burials can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and resource depletion. Cremation, on the other hand, is a more eco-friendly option.

Additionally, cremation is often more affordable than traditional burial methods, and it provides families with more flexibility when it comes to memorialization and funeral planning.

The Benefits of Cremation: Why it's a Growing Trend

So, what makes cremation an attractive option for so many people? Here are just a few benefits:

• Environmental Benefits: Cremation reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional burials, and it doesn't contribute to land use or resource depletion.
• Affordability: Cremation is often more cost-effective than traditional burial methods, which can be a significant burden on families.
• Flexibility: Cremation provides families with more options when it comes to memorialization and funeral planning, allowing them to create a more personalized and meaningful experience.
• Simplified Logistics: Cremation eliminates the need for a traditional funeral home, burial plot, and headstone, making it a more streamlined process.

These benefits, combined with the growing awareness of environmental issues, have contributed to the increasing popularity of cremation.

The Cremation Process: What to Expect

So, what happens during the cremation process? Here's an overview:

The cremation process typically begins with the preparation of the body, which involves washing, dressing, and preparing the deceased for viewing (if desired). The body is then placed in a cremation container, which is designed to combust quickly and efficiently.

The container is then placed in a cremation chamber, where it's exposed to high temperatures (typically between 1400°F and 1800°F) for a period of 1-2 hours. This process reduces the body to its basic elements, leaving behind only bone fragments and ash.

After the cremation process is complete, the ashes are collected and processed into a fine powder, which is then returned to the family in an urn or container.

What to Do with Cremated Remains: Your Options

So, what do you do with the cremated remains once you've received them? Here are a few options:

• Urn Burial: Bury the urn in a cemetery, memorial garden, or on private property.
• Scattering: Scatter the ashes in a special location, such as a beach, mountain, or park.
• Keeping the Urn: Keep the urn at home, in a memorial garden, or in a columbarium.
• Dividing the Ashes: Divide the ashes among family members or friends, allowing each person to keep a portion.

These are just a few options, and there are many other creative ways to memorialize your loved one.

The Cremation Society of RI: Your Partner in Death Care

At the Cremation Society of RI, we're dedicated to providing dignified, eco-friendly death care services that honor your loved one's legacy. Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through the cremation process, helping you create a personalized and meaningful experience.

We offer a range of services, including:

• Cremation Services: We provide dignified and respectful cremation services, ensuring that your loved one is treated with care and compassion.
• Memorialization Options: We offer a range of memorialization options, including urns, scattering gardens, and columbaria.
• Pre-Planning: We provide pre-planning services, allowing you to make arrangements for yourself or a loved one in advance.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you during this difficult time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Here are some frequently asked questions about cremation:

1. Is cremation a religiously acceptable option?

Yes, cremation is accepted by many religions, including Catholicism, Protestantism, Judaism, and Buddhism.

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

Yes, you can still have a funeral or memorial service with cremation. In fact, many families choose to hold a service before or after the cremation process.

3. How long does the cremation process take?

The cremation process typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the body and the type of cremation equipment used.

4. What happens to the ashes after cremation?

The ashes are collected and processed into a fine powder, which is then returned to the family in an urn or container.

5. Is cremation more expensive than traditional burial?

No, cremation is often less expensive than traditional burial methods.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

Losing a loved one can be a difficult and overwhelming experience. That's why it's essential to have access to resources and community support during this time.

Here are some resources that may be helpful:

• Grief Counseling: We offer grief counseling services to help you navigate the grieving process.
• Support Groups: Join a support group to connect with others who have experienced a similar loss.
• Online Resources: Check out online resources, such as grief blogs, forums, and educational websites.

Remember, you're not alone during this difficult time. Reach out to us for support and guidance as you navigate the cremation process.