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Religion and Cremation

Learn About Religious Views on The Practice of Cremation

For four generations, Rome Monument has created memorials for people of all religious traditions and faiths in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and Western Pennsylvania. From our customers and from community religious leaders, we have gained a significant understanding of the various rules concerning cremation in different religious traditions. To learn more about the cremation options for your religion, call Rome Monument at 724-770-0100 and ask to speak with Vince Dioguardi or Chris Morgan, our Certified Cremation Specialists.

Different religions often have different rules or preferences regarding cremation.  Click here for some major religions' perspectives on cremation including Anglican/Episcopalian, Baptist, Buddhist, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Hindu, Jewish, Lutheran, Methodist, Mormon, Muslim, Presbyterian and Quaker.

Most Christian traditions allow cremation so long as it is not done to express a refusal to believe in the resurrection of the body. Some more traditional churches, however, object to the practice.  The Church does not permit the scattering of ashes or keeping them at home. Ashes are to be buried in an appropriate container, such as an urn.

Some branches of Christianity oppose cremation. The Eastern Orthodox Church forbids cremation unless unavoidable or for a good cause. It is viewed as a rejection of the resurrection.

Judaism has traditionally disapproved of cremation. However, when Jewish cemeteries in Europe become crowded and were running out of space, cremation became acceptable to Liberal Jews. Orthodox Jews continue to disapprove of cremation, as they believe the soul of a cremated person will remain as a restless wanderer for eternity.

Eastern religions such as Hinduism and Buddhism mandate the use of cremation. Hinduism, however, has some exceptions. For example, monks, Hijras, and children under five are buried. Sikhism allows burial although cremation is preferred.

Religions that forbid cremation include: Bahá'í Faith, Presbyterianism, Eastern Orthodox Church, Iglesia ni Cristo, Islam, Orthodox Judaism and Zoroastrianism.

Visit Wikipedia for more information on religious views on cremation.

The folks here at Rome Monument of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania are certified by the ICCFA (International Cemetery Cremation and Funeral Association) to administer, organize, and arrange cremations. While we specialize in the design and creation cremation memorials, Rome Monument is uniquely qualified to explain the difference between traditional burials and cremation, how the cremation process works, the costs and prices associated with cremation, and the many cremation options available for creating a lasting tribute to your loved one.

Cremation memorials by Rome Monument often contain symbols and imagery that convey the specific nationality or religion of the deceased.  They can be for any number of graves and come in a variety of styles and shapes. Cemeteries in Pittsburgh often permit the use of different monument types including cremation memorials to mark the resting place of the deceased. You can select from a wide variety of granite colors in different price ranges.

Either Vince or Chris can answer all your cremation questions, including storage options such as: urns, jewelry, community columbariums (niches), cemetery cremation memorials, cremation memorial benches and cremation monuments. They will be happy to recommend crematories in Pittsburgh, Allegheny County, and Western Pennsylvania that can perform the cremation and/or funeral homes that can provide a funeral or memorial service. It’s never too early to get started. Simply call Rome Monument at 724-770-0100 and ask to speak with Vince Dioguardi or Chris Morgan. The consultation is free and we will be happy to answer all your questions.