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person's behalf.
It is also recommended that the deceased's body be buried in consecrated ground, i.e., a Catholic Cemetery. For only those cemeteries are solemnly blessed and consecrated by the local bishop. No other cemetery contains Consecrated ground.
When it is necessary to cremate a person, the "cremans" (the ashes) should be treated with the same respect as the body of a deceased person. This includes a worthy vessel to contain the "cremans". This also includes the manner in which this vessel (columbarium) is carried, transported, and its final disposition. Thus, the "cremans" should be buried in a grave or entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium.
The practice of scattering the "cremans" on the sea, or from the air, or on the ground, or keeping the "cremans" in the home, are not the reverent disposition required for what was the temple of the Holy Spirit. The "cremans" may be dropped into the sea, provided that is done with all the ashes in one sealed container.
The "cremans" may be brought to the church for the funeral rites, if the ashes are to be properly disposed afterwards. If not, the "cremans" may not be brought to the church for the funeral rites. In such a case, only a Memorial Mass may be celebrated with no "cremans" present.
In summary, yes it is permissible to be cremated. Provided that the "cremans" are treated with the respect and dignity due to a body which once was the temple of the Holy Spirit. For the "cremans" to be present at the funeral rites, the ashes must be properly disposed afterwards in the ground or in a mausoleum or in a container at sea.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
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