The Church’s position on cremation is not a teaching of faith or morals. It is subject to change based on prudential judgment.
In centuries past cremation was not an option likely to be chosen by Christians. Our faith and hope in the resurrection of the body made cremating the body seem strange and a counter symbol to what we believe. Over history cremation was also associated with pagan rites and rituals.
In modern times with the costs of funerals and burials skyrocketing many choose cremation simply as a more cost feasible means of burying the dead. Today it is highly unlikely that someone is choosing cremation because of an attachment to ancient pagan rituals.
The Church’s preference is still for a full body at a funeral. The body was consecrated to Christ in baptism and was a temple of the Holy Spirit and treating the body with the utmost respect is a priority. However, at the same time, the Church does not wish to impose a substantial burden on the faithful who might face hardship in trying to pay for a traditional burial.
