After a loved one passes away, you’ll have many decisions to make regarding the upcoming services. You may want to choose cremation, whether it’s your choice or you’re upholding the wishes of your loved one. Here are some important points about this option so you can feel more comfortable about this arrangement. 

What You Should Know About Cremation

If I opt for cremation, can I still hold a funeral?

Many people might shy away from cremation because they worry they won’t be able to hold a funeral. However, the services can be tailored to your preferences. If you want to opt for cremation, you can rent a casket for the viewing or wake, and have the body cremated afterward. You can also have the body cremated beforehand and present the urn at the service.

Does the Catholic religion allow for cremation?

In the past, Catholicism didn’t allow for cremation. However, in 2016, the Vatican announced that Catholics can be cremated if their ashes are kept in a sacred place, such as a church cemetery. 

What can I do with the ashes?

You have a few options for what you can do with the ashes after the funeral service. For example, you can scatter them in a place that meant a lot to the deceased, keep them in a small grave or mausoleum, keep them in an urn in your home, or place them in jewelry or decorative glasswork.

If I opt to scatter the ashes, are there any rules I should know?

If you choose to scatter the ashes on a private lot, such as a family member’s backyard, you don’t need to acquire a permit. However, if you want to scatter them in a public place, such as a national forest or park, you’ll need to get permission from your local government first. Additionally, if you want to scatter the ashes at sea, you need to be a certain distance from the coast and use an eco-friendly urn. 

If you're considering cremation as an option for a deceased loved one, turn to Meyer & Geiser Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH, for assistance. Their compassionate staff has been serving Hamilton County for over 70 years, and they will help craft a beautiful, touching memorial to suit your family member’s legacy. Give them a call today at (513) 921-4144 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their funeral arrangements.