Cremation is becoming increasingly popular among people from all walks of life worldwide. As part of funeral planning, there are four main categories of cremation services in Elton, PA, that you can use to honor a deceased individual or family member. This article will discuss each type in detail so you can make the best decision for your unique situation.
Direct Cremation Service
Direct cremation service is one of the most affordable options and does not include things like a memorial service or visitation. The deceased’s body is taken to the crematorium and cremated without any type of ceremony or gathering. This option allows close family members to plan a memorial service at their convenience, which can be held before or after the ashes are buried or scattered.
When a direct cremation is chosen, families are typically given options to keep the ashes in an urn or to have them scattered. Additionally, you may add other memorialization services for an additional fee, such as engraving for the urn or having a permanent plaque placed at a cemetery.
Memorial Service with Cremation
A memorial service with cremation combines both elements into one event. A funeral home typically performs the cremation prior to or during the memorial service and then provides an urn containing the deceased’s remains for display during the service. This allows friends and family to pay their respects more traditionally while still having access to the cremated remains afterward.
During the memorial service, family and friends can honor the deceased by offering prayers, stories, or other personal reflections. Celebrants may also bring photos and memorabilia of their loved one to display to help remember them during this time and make it a more meaningful and personal occasion.
Committal Service with Cremation
A committal service with cremation combines a direct cremation with a graveside ceremony. This option allows family and friends to gather at the burial site shortly after the cremation has taken place and say their final goodbyes in an intimate setting. Typically, a committal service includes scripture readings, prayers, and perhaps a few words of remembrance by those in attendance.
You can customize a committal service with cremation to honor the life of your loved one in whatever way you choose. Many families opt to bring meaningful items such as pictures, letters, or keepsakes to place on the casket during the committal service. The burial ceremony may also include traditional elements such as a flag presentation, gun salute, or symbolic gestures of love and respect. During the ceremony, clergy members or family members can share thoughts and memories of the departed, which can comfort those in attendance.
Visitation with Cremation
Regarding visitation with cremation, the deceased’s body is kept at a funeral home where family and friends can come to visit and pay their respects before the body is cremated. A memorial service or reception may then be held afterward if desired.
This arrangement gives loved ones time to grieve and have closure before committing their remains to ashes. Aside from visitation, other aspects of a funeral may be observed as part of the ritual, such as readings, music, and eulogies. Visitation with cremation services in Elton, PA, also allows families to choose unique memorial items such as keepsake jewelry or biodegradable urns and caskets. These options allow for a personal tribute to the life of their loved one.