Cremation became an acceptable practice by the Catholic Church in 1963. While cremation has been an acceptable practice for decades, many Catholics are unaware of how cremated remains should be treated and respected. The Church teaches that cremated remains must be given the same respect as the body, including the manner in which they are carried, and the attention given to their appropriate transport and placement. The cremated remains of a body are to be buried or entombed, preferably in a Catholic cemetery, using the rites provided by the Order of Christian Funerals.
The Church does not condone or encourage scattering cremated remains, dividing cremated remains or keeping cremated remains in the home. These options are not considered to be reverent dispositions that the Catholic Church requires.
Consider a final resting place that reflects the Catholic beliefs and values from life’s personal journey.
At Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island, we recognize that more Catholic families are interested in cremation and burial options for cremated remains. We have a team of professionals who are here to assist you and answer your questions. All of our cemeteries – Cemetery of the Holy Rood in Westbury, Queen of Peace in Old Westbury, Queen of All Saints in Central Islip, and Holy Sepulchre in Coram – offer several options for families interested in the inurnment of cremated remains.
While cremation has been an acceptable practice for decades, many Catholics are unaware of how cremated remains should be treated and respected. The cremated remains of a body are to be buried or entombed, preferably in a Catholic cemetery, using the rites provided by the Order of Christian Funerals.
In addition to the Church’s teaching, there are many benefits to choosing a permanent burial site for cremated remains at Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island:
- Our cemeteries are sacred and blessed grounds designated for burials and entombments.
- Our cemeteries provide the faithful with a special and appropriate place for families and friends to visit and remember their loved one.
- Memorialization at a Catholic cemetery creates a permanent record of your loved one’s life.
- Remembrance masses, special services and other programs provide families with the opportunity to gather together, pray and remember those buried at our cemeteries.
- Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island will always operate and be open to visitations for all future generations. We are committed to the maintenance, upkeep and beautification of cemetery properties.
Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island offers families a variety of inurnment options for cremated remains designed to meet your family’s needs. Click here to review the cremation space options available.
Helpful Cremation Resources
Cremation Options at Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island
Cremation Planning Guide
Catholic Cemeteries of Long Island Cremation Video
Vatican Instruction on Cremation