Jenkins Funeral Home & Cremation

What Is Cremation, and How Does It Work?

Cremation is a dignified and eco-friendly alternative to traditional burial. The process involves using high-temperature heat to reduce the body to its basic elements, leaving behind a residue of ashes, or "cremated remains." These remains can then be stored in an urn, scattered in a special location, or buried in a cemetery or memorial garden.

The cremation process typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the individual's size and the type of cremation chosen. There are two main types of cremation: traditional flame-based cremation and alkaline hydrolysis (also known as water cremation or green cremation). We'll delve deeper into these options later.

Debunking Common Cremation Myths

Despite its growing popularity, cremation is still shrouded in misconceptions. Let's set the record straight:

• Myth: Cremation is not a "traditional" way to say goodbye. Reality: Cremation has been practiced for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans using it as a common funeral rite.
• Myth: You can't have a funeral or memorial service with cremation. Reality: Absolutely not true! You can still hold a meaningful service to celebrate your loved one's life, even with cremation.
• Myth: Cremation is not environmentally friendly. Reality: While traditional burials can lead to land usage and resource depletion, cremation is a more eco-friendly option, especially when paired with eco-conscious urns and scattering methods.

The Benefits of Cremation

So, why are more people choosing cremation? Here are some compelling reasons:

• Cost-effective: Cremation can be significantly less expensive than traditional burial, with prices starting at around $1,000 compared to $7,000-$10,000 for a traditional funeral.
• Environmental benefits: Cremation reduces the need for land, resources, and embalming chemicals, making it a more sustainable option.
• Flexibility: Cremation allows for a wide range of memorialization options, from scattering in a special location to keeping the ashes in an urn at home.
• Personalization: With cremation, you can create a unique and personalized farewell that reflects your loved one's personality and spirit.

Cremation Options: Traditional Flame-Based vs. Alkaline Hydrolysis

As mentioned earlier, there are two main types of cremation: traditional flame-based cremation and alkaline hydrolysis. Here's a brief overview of each:

Traditional Flame-Based Cremation

This is the most common method of cremation, where the body is placed in a cremation chamber and subjected to high temperatures (typically between 1400°C to 1800°C) to reduce it to ashes.

Alkaline Hydrolysis (Water Cremation or Green Cremation)

This eco-friendly method uses a water-based solution to break down the body, resulting in a similar outcome to traditional cremation. Alkaline hydrolysis is considered a more environmentally friendly option, as it uses less energy and produces fewer emissions.

What to Do with Cremated Remains

Once the cremation process is complete, you'll need to decide what to do with the ashes. Here are some popular 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 ashes at home: Store the urn in a safe place, such as a mantle or shelf, as a reminder of your loved one.
• Dividing the ashes: Split the ashes among family members or friends, allowing each person to keep a portion as a memento.

Planning a Memorial Service or Celebration of Life

A memorial service or celebration of life is a meaningful way to honor your loved one, even with cremation. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Hold a traditional funeral service: Invite friends and family to pay their respects and share stories about your loved one.
• Organize a celebration of life: Host a more casual gathering, featuring music, food, and stories that celebrate your loved one's life.
• Create a memorial event: Plan a unique event that reflects your loved one's interests, such as a charity fundraiser or a memorial walk.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation

Still have questions about cremation? Here are some answers to common FAQs:

1. Is cremation a religious practice?

No, cremation is not specific to any religion. Many faiths and cultures have adopted cremation as a preferred method of body disposition.

2. Can I still have a viewing or visitation with cremation?

Yes, you can still hold a viewing or visitation before the cremation process. This can be a meaningful way to say goodbye and provide closure.

3. How do I know the ashes are really my loved one's?

Reputable crematories follow strict procedures to ensure the ashes are correctly identified and returned to the family.

4. Can I scatter ashes in a national park or other public place?

Check with local authorities and regulations before scattering ashes in a public place. Some areas may have specific rules or restrictions.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

Losing a loved one can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate the process alone. Here are some resources to help you cope and plan:

• Jenkins Funeral Home & Cremation: Our compassionate team is here to guide you through the cremation process and provide support during this difficult time.
• Grief counseling services: Reach out to local counseling services or support groups to connect with others who have experienced a similar loss.
• Online resources: Explore online forums, blogs, and educational websites to learn more about cremation and the grieving process.