Dear Catholic Exchange:
As a Roman Catholic, I am aware that our Church permits one to choose cremation over a traditional burial in a cemetery. Since cremation engenders a much smaller financial burden to the family, I have chosen cremation with the following possible options; namely, I can be cremated first and then the ashes can be brought to the parish church for my funeral mass, or my body can be brought to the parish church for my funeral mass prior to cremation. With regard to our Church's teachings are these two options completely equivalent or does our Church prefer one option over the other and for what reason? There is a considerable cost difference between the two options.
Mr. Bieniewski
Dear Mr. Bieniewski,
Peace in Christ!
Here is our tract, The Church's Norms for Cremation, which will be of some use. Ultimately you should discuss this with your pastor.
United in the Faith,
Eric Stoutz
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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