Is cremation allowed for Catholics?

Yes. The Church permits cremation when it is not chosen for reasons contrary to the Christian faith, but she still prefers burial of the body (CCC 2301; Canon 1176).

Why burial is preferred. The human body is part of the person and has been made holy through Baptism. Christians bury the dead in imitation of Christ's burial and in hope of the resurrection of the body (1 Cor 15:42-44). Burial also expresses more clearly the dignity of the body and the Church's expectation that Christ will raise the dead on the last day (CCC 988-991). Caring reverently for the dead is a corporal work of mercy (CCC 2300).

When cremation is permitted. Cremation may be chosen for legitimate reasons such as cost, limited burial space, family circumstances, or public necessity. It becomes contrary to Catholic faith if it is selected to express disbelief in bodily resurrection, contempt for the body, or a pantheistic idea that the deceased simply dissolves into nature. Canon law permits cremation unless it was chosen for reasons contrary to Christian teaching (Canon 1176).

How ashes must be treated. Cremated remains should be placed in a worthy container and buried or entombed in a cemetery, mausoleum, columbarium, or another sacred place approved by the Church. They should not ordinarily be kept permanently at home. They may not be scattered in the air, on land, or at sea. They should not be divided among relatives, made into jewelry, or incorporated into keepsakes. These practices can obscure the unity and dignity of the deceased person. The instruction Ad resurgendum cum Christo gives these norms while reaffirming the Church's hope in the resurrection.

What happens at the funeral. When possible, the Church prefers that the funeral rites be celebrated with the body present and that cremation take place afterward. A Catholic funeral may also be celebrated with cremated remains present, according to the Church's liturgical norms. The ashes are treated with the same reverence given to a body and are then taken for burial or entombment.

If you are arranging a cremation, speak with the parish before finalizing plans. The priest or funeral minister can help ensure that the funeral and burial honor both the deceased and the Catholic faith.