Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation
Hamel-Lydon Funeral Care and the Cremation Service of Massachusetts understand there can be many questions around Cremation services. Please find below some of our more common FAQ’s:
No, a casket is not required for cremation. All that is required is an alternative container which is cremated with the body.
Absolutely not and it is against the law for a funeral home to tell you otherwise.
Yes! More than 40% of families in Massachusetts who lose a loved one choose cremation over a traditional burial. Yet, many of these families still wish to have a service followed by a cremation.
Cremation caskets are simpler in design with less ornamentation. They are made from different materials yet don’t sacrifice quality and attention to detail that burial caskets have.
Yes, immediate family members may briefly view the deceased prior to cremation in our private viewing room. The deceased is first washed, dressed and prepared for viewing. As long as the viewing is concluded prior to the 48 hour state-mandated waiting period, no additional refrigeration charges would be incurred.
Today most religions allow cremation except for Orthodox Jewish, Islamic, Eastern Orthodox and a few Fundamentalist Christian faiths. The Catholic Church accepts cremation as long as it is not chosen for reasons which are contrary to Christian teachings. Some people believe that cremation is against the teachings of the Bible, but according to one famous Biblical scholar, “what occurs to the body after death has no bearing on the soul’s resurrection. The body that rises is not made of the same substances as the one that was buried, or cremated, but is immortal and incorruptible.”
There are many options. Remains can be buried in a cemetery lot or cremation garden, interned in a columbarium, kept at home, or scattered on private property. We also offer scattering services. Our staff will be happy to discuss these options with you and make any arrangements.
Cremation regulations vary from state-to-state. In Massachusetts there are several laws of which the consumer should be aware. First, there is a 48 hour waiting period from the time of death until the cremation can take place. Second, the deceased must be cremated in a suitable cremation container. Third, a cremation authorization form must be signed by the individual legally authorized to make the cremation arrangements. Finally, cremation cannot take place until the deceased has been viewed by a state-appointed Medical Examiner.
While some people select cremation for economy, many choose this option for other reasons. The simplicity and dignity of cremation, environmental concerns, and the flexibility cremation affords in ceremony planning and final disposition all add to its increasing popularity.
With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are given back to the family.
An urn is not required by law. However, an urn may be desired if there is to be a memorial service or the remains are to be interred in a cemetery. If an urn is not purchased through us, or provided by the family, the cremated remains will be returned in a temporary plastic or cardboard container.
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