Choosing cremation instead of a traditional burial is a personal decision.
Cremation Costs are Not the Only Reason
There is great variety in religious beliefs, ethnic identification and regional preferences in this country. These are only a few explanations for the sharp rise in the cremations conducted per year. As reported by Tyler Mathisen of NBC, one reason for the increasing popularity of cremation “is the softening of the Catholic church’s views of the practice. For centuries- until 1963, in fact – the church outlawed it. The church’s laws still express a preference for burial. But the outright ban is a thing of the past.”
He went on to inform readers that the decrease in the number of nuclear families has contributed to more cremations being performed. “As more Americans live far from hometowns and parents, and as family burial plots have waned in popularity and accessibility, millions have turned to cremation as a practical and cost-effective way to care for a loved one’s remains.”
Cremation also offers more options for holding a memorial gathering, celebration-of-life or scattering ceremony. The cremation process can take place as soon as the proper authorizations have been signed, leaving ample time afterward to prepare a memorable and fitting tribute to a loved one in a more calm mindset.
Ecological concerns are important to many families that choose to cremate their loved ones. Casketed remains use substantial amounts of land, and embalming can result in ground water pollution. However, the environmental impact of the cremation process may also be detrimental in terms of air pollution.
Can We Talk About Cremation?
We are always here to discuss your reasons for choosing cremation and to explore your options. When the time is right for you, please call us at 708-532-5400 to make an appointment or come visit our funeral home at your leisure. We also promptly respond to emails sent to us using our online form found under Contact Us.
Online Source:
Mathisen, Tyler, “Cremation is the Hottest Trend in the Funeral Industry”.