Cremation or Burial?

Planning for your funeral is not an easy subject to discuss with your family. No one wants to think about the day they have to lay you to rest. But it is something you need to talk about so there isn’t a lot of stress along with grieving. A lot goes into planning and one of the main issues is if you’d rather be buried or cremated? First, let’s talk about each one. 

Cremation 

Cremation is becoming more and more popular as time goes on. It’s reported that in 2019, 50% of all deaths were cremated and it’s going to continue to grow. In just 5 years it will jump to 60% of funerals as cremations rather than burials. The reason is because cremation is more affordable than a burial. You will need to spend about $300 for the cremation and any director fees taking care of the permits, certificates and any other paperwork. You’ll need to also pick out the urn after the service is completed, usually those also depend on what type or design you want. Depending on the deceased wishes, you are able to spread the ashes, bury them at a site, or keep them at home.  

The process is simpler than a burial and might save more money in your family’s pockets. Family members can peacefully say goodbye to their loved ones how they would like to, whether it’s religious rites or funeral services. During the cremation there is less of a process, the funeral staff begins by placing the casket or container in the cremation chamber. It is then set to 1,400 to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit for about 1 to 3 hours depending on the size and weight of the body. The body that is being cremated doesn’t feel a thing because everything has been shut down once a person has passed. Once the cremation is complete, the staff allows the remains to cool down. That way they can properly handle them and place the cremated remains in the urn that was picked out by the family.  

Burial 

A burial is more of a traditional way to lay your loved ones to rest. There is a lot that goes into it, most chose it because of religious purposes but it can be costly. Embalming is usually around $700 to $1,0000 but it is not required. Burial cost is roughly $3,000 or more. The casket itself is the most expensive part and depending on how extravagant you want the funeral service; it will raise the price. The grave site and headstone can average $1,000 to $2,000. Therefore, you can expect to pay $7,000 or more in most cases.  

The process for embalming a body is fairly gruesome, that’s why most funeral directors are licensed to do the embalming. First, the body is bathed and disinfected to protect the staff, family and visitors during the funeral service. Now here’s the ghastly part. The licensed embalmer takes the body’s blood with chemical preservatives through a solution to drain all the blood from the arteries and heart. Then they will puncture the organs and stomach to release gas and other bodily fluids. Once everything is released from the body, it is sewn back together and washed again. The eyelids are glued shut with skin glue, nails are manicured, makeup is used and the hair is styled.  

What Funeral Services Do Different Religions Use? 

There are several religious views on funeral services and understanding the difference might better help you decide what you would prefer. Countless religions have changed their perspective on how they lay their loved ones to rest.  

Christians are accustomed for burial services and secrete them near the church so they could be closer to God. Today, Christians are open to the idea of cremation but some still are against it. 

Judaism has always buried their dead in a simple casket with no extravagant services or decorations. Cremation was out of the question. Today they can be more open to a person’s wishes, but if someone wants to be cremated, they still have to be buried in a casket.  

Buddhism is very different from most religions since they don’t believe in a greater God. They celebrate the life of Buddha and don’t follow any certain ways of doing funerals. Buddha was cremated so they accept it and all types of burials are permitted as per request from the deceased.  

Making a Decision 

In conclusion, it is your decision, religious beliefs or views on whether you would want to be buried or cremated. It’s important to talk openly with your family and loved ones on what decision you make, to take the steps to move forward. If you have any further questions or want more information on planning a funeral service, contact Russon Mortuary today.