Cremation is simply a form of disposition. The crematable casket is placed in a cremation chamber where, through a process of heat and evaporation, the body is reduced to its original elements- bone fragments, not ashes.

Can you have cremation with an open casket visitation?

Yes, more families select an appropriate service to take place before the cremation or after. You may still have a traditional funeral with visitation, with the cremation disposition taking place after the service. The psychological benefits of viewing our loved ones and having the opportunity to say good-bye are well documented and are available with cremation.

Where does the cremation take place?

Families who select WYUKA Funeral Home are comforted in knowing that the cremation will be done here in Lincoln at a crematory by licensed professionals.

Isn't direct cremation easier?

Direct cremation usually means cremation with no visitation or services. Some people choose direct cremation believing that the quickest, simple option is best. However, all cultures recognize the need to come together to share and grieve at the time of death. Most people require something more than only disposing of a loved one. Grief shared is grief diminished.

What do you do with cremated remains?

Most families select a form of memorialization with their cemetery of choice. At WYUKA and Fairview we view the inurnment as the dignified act of memorializing cremated remains within a place of permanent rest.

Can cremated remains be scattered?

A family may, if they wish, scatter the cremated remains of their loved one on privately owned property with the consent of the property owner. If you select scattering, always be sure to check you local, state and federal laws concerning scattering of cremains. Scattering, however, is neither practical nor considerate of all concerned. It may be very traumatic for family members to scatter fragmented, yet recognizable bone fragments of their loved one. In additional, later generations of the family may not have a place to go to pay tribute, if that private property has been sold or developed into something else. Only a cemetery provides for the dignified, permanent record and memorialization of cremated remains.

Do Catholics allow cremation?

Catholic News Service announced that the Vatican now permits in the United States funeral Masses with cremated remains present. It will be the decision of each bishop to determine if this is pastorally appropriate in his diocese.

The introductory material from the Vatican reiterated that the church prefers "that the body of the deceased be present for funeral rites" and stresses that cremated remains be treated with respect and should be buried in a grave or entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium. Scattering at sea, from the air or ground, or kept at home are not reverent disposition.

When cremated remains are present, they must be contained in a "worthy vessel" placed on a table or in the place normally occupied by the casket, and must be covered with a pall. The Easter Candle my be present. The urn may be carried to its place in the entrance procession or placed on a table before service begins. The words in the blessing and dismissal will be changed for cremation. The prayer or committal will read "earthly remains" in place of "body." This new Vatican decision does not effect "Eastern" churches.

Does cremation require preplanning?

Cremation does require the same degree of preplanning as does traditional burial. After the death of a loved one, families and friends are grieving. In an emotional state of mind, people often have difficulty making important decisions, and they may later regret arrangements made in haste. Preplanning for your cremation removes the burden from friends and family.

Does the process of cremation transform human remains into ashes?

The encased body is placed in the cremation chamber where, through heat and evaporation, the body is reduced to its basic elements. These elements are referred to as cremated remains. Ashes are not the final result since cremated remains have neither the appearance nor the chemical properties of ashes. Cremated remains are, in fact, bone fragments. Following preparation, these remains are either placed in a permanent urn or in a temporary container.

Do families who choose cremation need to purchase a traditional casket?

Most crematories have regulations regarding the container in which human remains intended for cremation be presented. The container must be rigid enough to be easily handled and it must provide coverage of the remains. Additionally, the container must meet appropriate standards to ensure the health and safety of the crematory operator will be protected.

Is memorialization necessary when a loved one is cremated?

Counselors agree that memorialization of a loved one aids friends and family with the grieving process. Family members who scatter a loved one's remains or store them in a box somewhere often regret that they have no place to go and pay their respects. Memorialization allows family members to publicly acknowledge a loved one's life and death.

Is embalming required for cremation?

Embalming is required in some States if the remains are not cremated or buried within 48 hours of death, or if the deceased had certain communicable diseases.

Is cremation not socially or theologically accepted?

Most religious faiths accept cremation. In fact, cremation is increasing in popularity across the nation. More people are turning to cremation as a more environmentally conscious option to traditional burial.

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