While cremation is still not the major form of disposition in the United States, (about 25% of all deaths), it is growing rapidly. In the Pacific Northwest and Florida, it is more popular than burial. There are many reasons for the increase - and cost is certainly one. As funerals at many companies reach $7,000-$10,000 or more, traditional services and burials become economically impossible for many families; generally, urns cost less than caskets. Simplicity is another factor; ecological reasons or an aversion to earth burial are others.

Cremation allows for a variety of choices that are not possible with burial. Scattering ashes over water, at a favorite vacation spot, or even on the 18th fairway, can be accommodated.

The fact that the remains can be divided also gives rise to other options. Keepsake urns are small vessels designed to contain only a portion of the ashes so that another portion can be buried, scattered or retained by several family members. Cremation jewelry, designed to hold a small amount of the cremains, is another way of keeping the ashes close.

Cultural and Religious Preferences Many cultures and religions accept cremation as the standard. In Japan, for example, where the majority of people are Buddhist, cremation is used in about 98% of the funerals. Cost is certainly not the determining factor, since their typical funerals cost between $12,000 and $17,000. On the other hand, land is so expensive that a burial plot would cost approximately $30,000.

Hinduism In Hindu religions, cremation is the standard and part of the religious ceremony. In India, cremation takes place out in the open, and the funeral pyre is lit by the next of kin - usually a son. While this is not possible here, we work with a crematory which allows the family to be present and to begin the cremation process.

Roman Catholic Church Many Catholic families wonder if the Church allows cremation. The Church does permit cremation, but some rules apply. The Church prefers that cremation take place after the funeral mass, at which the body has been present. Following cremation, the remains are to be buried or entombed in consecrated ground.

Judaism and Islam In Orthodox Judaism and Islam, cremation is forbidden. Jewish traditions require the body to be buried without embalming, in a coffin made entirely of wood.