Understanding Cremation in Terms of One’s Culture

Cremation goes hand in hand with affordability and flexibility. Cremation services in Saskatoon, SK is something that has risen in popularity over the years, in large part, because the culture surrounding the cremation and funeral industry is more accepting of this method. These days, there’s more to a cremation than cost and allowing time for the family to grieve when using direct cremation. Funeral directors take into consideration that the world is multi-cultured and that people from all walks of life and who come from different backgrounds often take into account their spiritual and religious beliefs in terms of disposition. Many families base their final service decisions on their religion. At the same time, religions are more flexible today and allow families to decide if cremation is right for them. And some religions even mandate cremation. 

How to Decide if Cremation Affects Your Religion 

When it comes to the body disposition, take into account the practices of your religion or culture. If you and your family are agnostic and there’s nothing about your culture that dictates how to prepare for the deceased, you’ll have it easier because you can go either way. For some, cremation isn’t affected by religion. For others, cremation is strictly forbidden. If you have questions about your religion’s take on how to prepare the deceased’s body, it’s always good to consult your priest, pastor or spiritual advisor you may have. 

Religious Beliefs in Practice 

Before the 1960s, the Roman Catholic Church forbid cremation. But even a religion notorious for following its rules can start to change based on how their worshipers are acting. Such was the case for the church and these days, since 2016, the Pope allowed for cremation but for one caveat: the ashes of the deceased must be kept in a a sacred location such as a church cemetery. 

Meanwhile, Protestant religions accept cremation and this decision is entirely up to the family members. Other religions like the Eastern Orthodox are strict, and do not permit cremation. The Jewish doctrine used to forbid cremation, but nowadays the practice is accepted, but the type of Judaism practiced also follows strict rules. Jewish conservatives permit cremation, although the preferred method is some kind of burial ceremony. As for Reform Jews, cremation is not only left up to the family, but is also becoming increasingly more popular. 

Customs Also Affect Your Decision 

To be thorough, religion isn’t the only thing to consider. Your family may have their own customs and traditions. They don’t have to be recognized, and they could just be like how a family prepares the holiday. Maybe a family always cooks ham on Christmas day. That’s a tradition if done year after year. Take into account the opinions of other family members. If you love your family, this is the best way to please everyone. 

As you can see, cremation isn’t all that easy if one takes into account one’s religious belief or culture. If you want to follow your faith or leaning toward ignoring it, you can learn more about cremation services serving Saskatoon, SK. Visit Cherished Memories Funeral Services and Crematory, Inc. by calling us at (306) 242-7888 or visit us at 591 Centennial Dr N Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.