If you’ve recently lost a loved one or are pre-planning your funeral service, choosing between a burial and cremation is something you’ll be tasked with. Each service plays an important role, and one may be more suitable for your goals. Below are the essential details to help you understand what makes each unique and how they apply to you.

Burial

A burial is part of a funeral service. Family and friends celebrate the life of the deceased and lay their remains to rest. Service and burials are held between three and seven days after passing. It’s practiced across multiple belief systems around the world.

Burials begin with traditional funerals held at a church or funeral home and led by a religious leader. The deceased may be present in an open or closed casket, and guests are able to view them and pay their respects during the wake—a service that takes place just before the funeral.

During the funeral, guests and religious leaders may share prayers, sing hymns, or tell stories about the deceased while the burial casket is present. A close family member may also read a commemorative speech, called a eulogy.

Following the funeral service is the burial service. The body of the deceased is laid to rest in a cemetery, churchyard, or mausoleum. The religious figure may share another prayer, and after, a headstone or gravemarker is added to the burial site so guests can visit in the coming years.

Cremation

Cremation is the process of converting the deceased to ashes. Their remains are then stored in a decorative urn, which is similar to a vase. This is a fast, convenient process that many people choose following an unexpected passing. Cremation is also accepted across many belief systems.

Families can choose between a traditional service, memorial service, or non-traditional service for the cremated remains. They may hold a funeral service exactly the same as if the body was present, including the eulogy, religious ceremony, and wake where guests can view the urn and pay their respects.

Following the service, the ashes can be scattered in a cemetery cremation garden. The urn can be buried in a traditional cemetery plot or mausoleum. Families may also take the ashes and release them in an approved area, such as a lake. This versatility is a reason why cremation is so popular.

If you’ve recently lost a loved one, Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home can help you through this tough time. This funeral home has served Rochester, NY, for over 40 years and provides comprehensive funeral services and cremation services. Explore their services further on their website or call (585) 426-7830 to set up a consultation.