Is cremation OK?

[neophiliac]

My wife and I are considering cremation after we die, but being of an age (late 60s) when, as children in a Catholic school we were taught that cremation was sinful, we’re having problems making a decision. I have been to a few Catholic friends funerals where they were cremated and I have now formed the opinion that the ceremony, i.e. Liturgy is the center of the funeral as opposed to the viewing concept. It is also much easier on the family. Does the Church have any real problem with cremation? Thanks

 

[Jim_Blackburn]

Cremation is generally allowed. Code of Canon Law (CIC) states, “the Church does not prohibit cremation unless it was chosen for reasons contrary to Christian doctrine” (CIC 1176.3).

See also: Can a Catholic be cremated and have ashes scattered?