As the premier provider for Catholic services in our community and with more families choosing cremation, informing you of these options just makes sense.
The phenomenon of cremation is still largely unfamiliar and emotionally uncomfortable for some Catholics. Although cremation has been a practice of the Catholic Church since 1963, restrictions allowed very few Catholics to choose it. In recent years, changes to these conditions made by the Catholic Church have enabled cremation to be considered an acceptable option.
Where the Catholic Church Stands?
Changes the Church has made
Since many Catholics find cremation to be a necessity at times, the important issue of whether or not the presence of cremated remains at Mass is acceptable needed to be officially addressed.
In 1997, the National Conference of Catholic Bishops’ request for an indult allowing for cremated remains to be present at Mass was answered favorably. The decision, passed down by the Congregation of Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, grants each diocesan bishop the right to decide whether this practice will be allowed in his diocese.
When permission is granted, certain changes in the wording of funeral rites, as well as ceremonial modifications, must be made. These can be discussed in detail with your clergy.
What you should know about the final disposition of cremated remains?
How does the Church feel about scattering ceremonies?
Catholic Choices for Cremation
- When cremation takes place following the Funeral Liturgy.With this option, your loved one would be taken to church in a traditional casket and cremation would follow the Mass.
- When cremation and committal take place following the Funeral Liturgy.Similar to option 1, after the Mass and cremation, the urn would be interred in a cemetery.
- When the cremated remains are present during the Funeral Liturgy.This option is used when the deceased wishes to be cremated before any type of ceremony would take place. The cremated remains are to be placed in a worthy vessel on a small stand positioned where the casket normally would be. The urn may be carried to its place in the entrance procession or may be placed at the front of the Catholic Church before the liturgy begins.
Our family has used the services of Chapel Of The Angels twice during our times of need. On both instances they made quick arrangements to retrieve our loved ones, and began the process of caring for them immediately. With regards to our mother, the grave site was clear out on the coast. They took care of the entire processional without any issues. They offer a full range of services and are responsive to all needs and requests. I know the entire family and am impressed with their intregity. I highly recommend Berge-Pappas-Smith Chapel of the Angels.