The cremation of deceased Catholics can be an acceptable pastoral alternative to traditional burial; however, Church teaching continues to stress the preference for burial or entombment of our deceased loved ones. The funeral rites are celebrated in three stages: the vigil (the wake), the funeral liturgy, and the committal. It is important to note that the church strongly prefers that cremation take place after the full funeral liturgy where the body is present, since the body itself will most clearly bring to mind the life and death of the individual. The funeral liturgy is intended to honor the body of the deceased. Many individuals inquire at our office if the cremated body must be interred or entombed. The answer is yes. The church teaches that cremated remains should be treated with the same respect given to the corporeal remains of a human body. Respectful final disposition of the cremated body involves interment or entombment. The attitude we are to hold in a Catholic practice of cremation places high priority on the long tradition of keeping the memory of our dead, preferably in a Catholic Cemetery. Our belief is that we will be raised up with Christ on the last day. This is signified by choosing a Catholic Cemetery to inter the cremated bodies of our departed loved ones as the Catholic Cemetery is a constant reminder of "the sure hope of the resurrection." As the number of inquiries for cremation space has increased, St. Charles Cemetery has provided a special section set aside as a final resting place for cremated remains that respects the deceased's belief in the resurrection of the dead and allows for peaceful family visitation, prayer, and remembrance in a sacred and dignified place. Having such a place is also an important and befitting part of the mourning and grieving process for the bereaved. The availabilities at "Mother Cabrini Gardens", (Section 023A), provide for both single and double cremation gravesites and are obtainable for pre-need and immediate need purchase. The section has been developed to accommodate a total of nearly 700 interments. Pre-need arrangements made now can be paid for on installment, without interest, with regular monthly payments. Pricing is affordable and the endowed care cost (permanent care) is included in the purchase price. Should you choose to select a cremation grave before need for one, or two, or multiple sites for a number of interments, you will afford yourself the peace of mind that comes from the knowledge that a personal obligation has been fulfilled. The beautifully landscaped grounds of this section will pay tribute to those you love well into the future. The cremation sites were designed of a substantial size to more than adequately provide the families of the deceased the opportunity to purchase a memorial capable of properly honoring the individual with dignity and religious significance. These sites may be memorialized with a flat granite marker. Size requirements and the particular regulations governing the stonework are attainable at the cemetery office. The counseling staff of St. Charles Cemetery will carefully and respectfully assist those requesting information on the purchase of the sites and answer any questions regarding the contract of sale or general cemetery regulations. Contact the office at 631 249-8700. | 
