Albert J. Sanchez, Superintendent of Cemeteries

First of all, let's define the word cremation. Most of us have a general idea of what cremation is and means, but allow me to give you a definition that you may refer to at your next family gathering or bridge night. Cremation is the reduction, through heat and evaporation, of the human body to its basic elements and is considered a means of preparing the human body for final disposition and memorialization. What are basic elements you might ask? Bone fragments. No ashes here, but simply bone fragments that will be reduced by a mechanical process into a more uniform size for placement in an urn. Yes, the act of cremation is now permitted by the Church, but allow me to explain. With cremation, it is strongly preferred that the body of the deceased be present for funeral rites since its physical presence reflects the values affirmed in these rites. Cremated remains, also referred to as cremains, but never ashes, may also be present in church for the Mass of Christian burial, provided that the motives for cremation are not contrary to Church teaching. (A brief discussion with your pastor will clarify what is considered contrary to church teaching.) The priest or liturgical assistant arranging the Mass must be informed of the family's request to allow the cremated remains to be present at the mass. I am sure the priest would also welcome the information in order to prepare for preaching at the mass. Typically though, having cremated remains present for the Mass of Christian Burial is an exception to be made on and individual basis and is not considered the norm.

What is final disposition and memorialization you might also ask? The cremated remains(cremains) are always to be treated with dignity and respect and placed in a container that will help to provide such dignity and respect. Once burial rites are held, cremated remains are to be brought to the cemetery for final burial or entombment. Scattering cremated remains(an irreversible process) or permanently keeping them in the home of a relative or friend is not in harmony with the reverence that the Church requires of these remains. Cremation itself is not a final means of disposition as it applies to our Catholic faith.

The Catholic Cemeteries provide burial and entombment options for cremated remains in the form of aboveground columbarium niches, crypts, and in-ground burial. These options are offered to encourage the dignified disposition of cremated remains while also providing a means for memorialization. Have you have chosen cremation for either yourself or a loved one? You'll be pleased to know that you have the right to have the cremation take place at a Catholic crematory. When pre-planning, advise your funeral home or mortuary that your preference for cremation is to be San Fernando Catholic Crematory. If you still have more questions regarding cremation please visit our website www.catholiccemeteriesofsa.org or speak to your pastor. The Committee on the Liturgy of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops(NCCB) has published a pamphlet entitled Reflections on the Body, Cremation, and Catholic Funeral Rites. I'll send you a free copy of it if you send your request in writing to:

Cremation Information
Catholic Cemeteries of San Antonio
746 Castroville Rd.
San Antonio, TX. 78237