Catholic Traditions
Sacred Care for Families Across Western Massachusetts
The Catholic Church permits cremation, though it continues to recommend traditional burial as the practice that most fully expresses reverence for the body. Whichever a family chooses, the Church asks that it be done in keeping with the dignity owed to a body destined for resurrection.
Celebrating the Life and Body
What the Church Requires
Treated
with Reverence
Treated
with Reverence
Cremated remains are to be buried or entombed in a cemetery, mausoleum, or another sacred place, honoring the body as sacred, just as it was in life.
Kept Whole, Kept Sacred
Kept Whole, Kept Sacred
Remains are never scattered, kept at home, or divided among family members, but are laid to rest together in one place, as befits the dignity of the person who has died.
The Body’s Presence
The Body’s Presence
Whenever possible, the body itself should be present for the funeral Mass, with cremation taking place only afterward, so the Church can pray over the person it has known in life.
A Temple of the Holy Spirit
Options for Cremated Remains at Our Cemeteries
We offer columbarium niches and dedicated cremation garden spaces for the interment of cremated remains, providing a permanent, consecrated place of rest and remembrance.