Perspective of Christianity

For Christianity, it considers the body sacred and that d:eath is the beginning of eternal life in the presence of God. Traditionally, human remains are buried in a cemetery or sacred place, as a way of respecting the sacredness of the body. Though cremation was rejected in some Christian circles in the past, it is accepted today, as long as the ashes are treated with respect.

For example, In the Catholic Church, cremation is permitted, but it is recommended that the ashes be placed in a consecrated place, such as a cemetery or columbarium, and not kept at home . This is because the Church thinks that the cemetery is a fitting place to honor the deceased, and keeping the ashes at home could blur the meaning of respect and solemnity toward the body. In addition, a consecrated resting place also facilitates the grieving process by offering family members a space to visit and remember their loved one in peace.

Final reflection: a personal decision

In both Spiritism and Christianity, we find different reasons in order to reflect on the fate of a loved one’s ashes. Nevertheless, each person experiences grief in a unique way and finds solace in different practices. For some people, keeping the ashes at home can represent peace and closeness, while for other people, putting them in a consecrated place or scattering them in nature can symbolize liberation and an act of respect.

Ultimately, this is a deeply personal decision and needs to be respected. Each family and individual must analyze what they consider best, both for their emotional peace and to honor the memory of their loved one. The importance lies in the respect and love with which this choice is handled, and in how this practice makes contribution to the serenity of people who make it.