Eternal Rest: The Art of Dying Well
Why Should Cremation Be Done After A Funeral Mass, Not Before?
Episode 32
•
1m 26s
The Church celebrates a different funeral rite depending on whether the full body or cremated remains are present.
If cremation is necessary, the Church prefers the celebration of the funeral Mass first, then the cremation. Disposition of the cremains takes place several days later.
“If one were to choose cremation, the Church’s preference is to have the body present for the funeral Mass and have the cremation after that.”
The presence of a body at the funeral Mass holds symbolic importance. The white pall covering the casket recalls the white garment worn at baptism. Baptism marks an individual's adoption into God’s family and the beginning of life in the Church. The funeral Mass honors the end of earthly life and offers intercession for complete union with God.
Up Next in Supplemental Videos
-
How is Hospice Paid For?
Medicare, Medicaid, and many private insurance companies cover hospice.
Patients and their families can contact their insurance provider to see what their particular coverage includes, such as the number of visits to the home by hospice nurses or the length of time allowed in a hospice facility....
-
What is the Catholic Approach of Pall...
The main goal of palliative care is to relieve the pain and suffering of the patient. Its practices can be used alongside more traditional medical care. Provided that the treatments of palliative care respect the fundamental orientation of medicine towards the patient and does not encourage pract...
-
How Do I Grieve A Miscarriage?
Memorializing the loss of a baby can help parents grieve. Rituals like holding a ceremony, planting a tree, or gathering with friends to pray for the child’s soul can provide meaning and comfort.
Pregnancy loss is incredibly difficult. It involves loss in the present and of a future—all the pote...
