On Cremation

Cremation 

The practice of cremation is becoming a common practice For centuries the Church forbade cremation, but over time, has relaxed her discipline. While the Church prefers the practice of burying the bodies of the deceased, the Church raises no objections to cremation since it does not affect the soul of the deceased, nor does it prevent God from raising up the body to new life. Cremains may also be placed in church during the Funeral Mass. Cremation is prohibited if it is chosen for reasons contrary to Christian doctrine. While cremation is allowed, a few norms to be observed:  

• the scattering of ashes is prohibited for religious reasons as well as to prevent the mortal remains becoming food for birds, bugs, or fish, or resulting in some other undignified outcome

• the ashes are not to be preserved in mementos, e.g. jewelry,
• the ashes may not be preserved in a home memorial (e.g., on the mantle) 
• the ashes may not be divided among family members and friends
• the ashes must be laid to rest in a sacred place, i.e., a cemetery in consecrated ground or columbarium. 

These norms also apply to those who will their body for scientific research. When a request for cremation is made along with the scattering of ashes a Christian funeral must be denied to that person according to the norms of the law, but subsequent Masses offered for the repose of the person’s soul would certainly be allowed and encouraged.