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WHY DO CATHOLICS...? ARCHIVE
The following question was answered as a part of our Why Do Catholics...? series. If you would like to submit a question for our Why Do Catholics...? series, email faithform@abecket.org or leave your question in the Faith Formation box in the Parish Office.

Does the Catholic Church allow for the scattering of ashes of those cremated or the keeping of them in the home?

The Church maintains that ashes are to be in a conventional grave, a mausoleum or columbarium. In the Church’s document, Order of Christian Funerals, is a prayer that reflects this position: “My friends, as we prepare to buy (entomb) the ashes of our brother (sister)…. Comfort us today with the words of your promise as we return the ashes of our brother (sister) to the earth.”

In fact, in another document, The Guidelines for Christian Burial in the Church, state clearly, “unless otherwise directed by the diocesan bishop, the cremated remains should never be scattered or disposed of in any manner other than a dignified interment or entombment.” Take note, burial at sea is permitted for either body or ashes.

Laura Broyles, Adult Faith Formation Director
laura.broyles@abecket.org

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