With a strong trend of families choosing Cremation in San Diego CA instead of burial for their deceased relatives, traditions regarding afterlife farewell ceremonies are changing significantly. Formal funerals with a visitation or wake, dozens of floral bouquets and a procession to a cemetery are much less common now. Instead, family members and friends are increasingly likely to gather for a casual memorial service after the deceased person has been cremated.
About half of U.S. residents are now deciding on cremation for family members who have passed away. Some individuals preplan the arrangements with an organization such as Cremation Society so their relatives don’t have to deal with the practical matters during a time of grief. Others make their preferences known to the family in case death occurs somewhat unexpectedly. At times, family members are left to figure out what to do because the person’s passing was untimely.
A Money-Saving Option for Families
Cremation in San Diego CA saves money for the family, even if the ashes are interred at a cemetery in an urn. There is no need to buy a casket, although families can rent one if they do prefer to have a visitation. The cemetery plot can be significantly smaller for an urn. Many people, however, would rather keep the ashes in an urn at home or scatter the ashes in a special place. The family does not pay for a hearse and a limousine either.
Similarities and Differences
Memorial services, like funerals, generally have a designated main speaker who is often a pastor or other member of the clergy. Friends and relatives may offer their own thoughts as well. A gathering for a meal or some snacks afterward is standard, which is another similarity with the traditional funeral. However, people tend to dress more casually and the floral bouquets are minimal, if there are any at all.
Changing Traditions
Death is inevitable, but the traditions can always change. Even some religious faiths that once prohibited cremation have become more lenient about the practice, although some still mandate burial for the ashes instead of allowing scattering or keeping them at home.
