Cremation vs. Burial… How to Decide Which is Best

By: Myles O'Riordan
Wednesday, November 9, 2016

One of the questions that people ask the staff of Wagg Funeral Home is whether they should opt for a cremation or burial service for their loved one. People often choose cremation over burial because it is much cheaper.

 

Cremation is the least expensive because you don’t need to pay costs connected with the funeral service or visitation. Plus, you don’t need to buy a plot in a cemetery to bury your deceased loved one. However, it is still the choice of the individual or family members whether they opt for a burial or cremation service. Family members must consider the deceased feelings, beliefs, and final wishes.

 

Cultural and religious beliefs play a vital role in deciding between cremation and burial service. Most religions today accept the cremation process except for Eastern Orthodox Church, Islam, and Orthodox Judaism. Cremation has been practiced in Hinduism for centuries. For Hindus, they believe that it helps the soul go forward on its journey to the next world. For Christians, burial symbolises the burial and resurrection of Christ.

 

In today’s world, the more practical choice is cremation. Due to the fast industrialisation of the planet, more land is required. There are also concerns about public hygiene because corpses are buried a couple of feet below the surface of the earth. And with the advancement of technology, modern cremation equipment can reduce the body to its basic elements faster than before. However, environmentalists are concerned about the greenhouse gas emissions during a cremation service. 

 

Difference between Cremation and Burial Service

A cremation reduces the body of the deceased to ashes within a couple of hours, while the body goes through the slow process of natural decomposition in a burial. There are some people who believe that the body should be allowed to decompose in a natural manner and consider cremation as something that makes the process faster. However, there are others who believe that cremation represents reverence.

 

Direct cremation service is more cost effective compared to a burial service because the former doesn’t require embalming. Plus, you have the option of keeping the body in another container instead of the usual casket.

 

As people travel far from their family roots, a cremation service offers a flexible way of demoralisation. The cremated can be placed in an urn and displayed on the mantle at home; displayed on a shelf; scattered over land, air or water; or placed in a columbarium. Some people bury the urn in a burial plot that is smaller than one used in a burial service.

 

But keep in mind that cremation is irreversible. You should think about it first before deciding between a cremation service and a burial service. If you have any more questions about the two services, we at Wagg Funeral Home will be more than happy to answer your questions. Contact us today, and we will respond as soon as possible. 

Leave a comment
Name*:
Email:
Comment*:
Please enter the numbers and letters you see in the image. Note that the case of the letters entered matters.

Comments

Please wait

Previous Posts

How Port Perry Funeral Homes Provide Compassionate Support for Families During Difficult Times

When dealing with the loss of a loved one, families often find themselves overwhelmed with decisions and arrangements while simultaneously coping with their grief. In these challenging times, funer...

Navigating the Financial Aspects of Funeral Services in Canada

Navigating the financial aspects of funeral services can be overwhelming, especially during a time of loss. Many families are left wondering about the costs associated with a basic funeral service ...

Cremation vs. Burial: Understanding Your Options in Canada

Deciding between cremation and burial is a significant choice that many Canadians face when planning for end-of-life arrangements. As funeral costs continue to rise, understanding the financial imp...

Affordable Cremation: What is the Least Expensive Option

Planning for a loved one’s cremation is a deeply emotional experience. As you navigate this challenging time, managing the financial aspects of cremation can add another layer of stress. Understand...

How Much Does it Cost to Cremate Someone in Ontario?

Cremation is becoming a more popular choice for families in Ontario due to its flexibility, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional burial. However, understanding the cost of cre...

The True Cost of Saying Goodbye: What You Need to Know About Funeral Expenses in Ontario

Saying goodbye to a loved one is one of life’s most challenging moments. Amidst the emotional turmoil, the practical aspects of planning a funeral can often feel overwhelming. In Ontario, the cost ...

Does the Ontario Government Help with Funeral Costs? Exploring State Assistance and Financial Support

Losing a loved one is emotionally challenging, and the financial implications of funeral expenses can exacerbate this stress for grieving families. In Ontario, funeral costs can be substantial, pro...

What is the Most Expensive Part of a Funeral?

To explore the intricacies of funeral expenses and provide a comprehensive guide for families facing these decisions during a sensitive time, it's essential to delve deeper into the cost breakdown ...

Do I Have to Use a Burial Vault for Burial?

When planning a burial, many decisions need to be made, and one of the more common questions is whether or not to use a burial vault. This decision can impact both the cost and the logistics of a f...

Can I Have a Gathering/Visitation Without a Ceremony/Service?

In times of loss, grief can feel overwhelming, and navigating the process of saying goodbye can be challenging. Traditionally, gatherings and visitations have been accompanied by ceremonies or serv...