Cremation is the process of reducing the body to bone fragments through the application of intense heat in a specially designed chamber. Today’s cremation process is efficient, clean, and dignified. At all times, remains are handled with care and respect.

Cremation is simply one step in a larger process. Families still have many options for memorial services, final placement, and remembrance.

Cremation has been practiced in many cultures since the earliest use of fire. Throughout history, it has been chosen for spiritual, practical, and cultural reasons across societies in both the East and the West.

In the United States, cremation became more common in the late nineteenth century as cities grew and public health concerns increased. Forest Hills Crematory, founded in 1893, was the first crematory established in New England and remains an important part of the cemetery’s history.

Cremation is widely accepted and continues to grow in popularity worldwide. In many countries, including Japan and parts of Europe, cremation is the most common choice.

In the United States, cremation rates vary by region, but acceptance continues to rise as families seek flexible, personal, and meaningful options for memorialization.

People choose cremation for many reasons. For some, it offers simplicity or flexibility. Others are drawn to environmental considerations, cost, or the ability to choose a wide range of memorial options.

Cremation also allows families to personalize services and final placement in ways that reflect individual values, traditions, and wishes.

Most major religions permit cremation. The Catholic Church, once opposed, now accepts cremation and its use has increased significantly among Catholic families. Protestant denominations generally welcome cremation, as do many other faith traditions.

Some religions, including Islam, Conservative and Orthodox Judaism, and the Greek Orthodox Church, traditionally do not permit cremation. Families are encouraged to consult with religious leaders when making decisions based on faith.

Cremation is a meaningful and respectful choice, not a lesser one. It does not limit ceremony, ritual, or remembrance.

Both cremation and burial can vary in cost depending on the services and options chosen. Cremation may be less expensive in some cases, but families can personalize either option to reflect their priorities and preferences.

No. Choosing cremation does not prevent families from holding a funeral or memorial service.

Services may take place before cremation, after cremation, or both. Ceremonies can be traditional or contemporary and may be held at a funeral home, place of worship, cemetery, or other meaningful location.

Legally, families may handle arrangements themselves. However, most families choose to work with a licensed funeral director to assist with permits, transportation, and coordination.

Funeral service professionals provide guidance, support, and practical assistance during a difficult time, and families may choose how involved they wish to be in the process.

The crematory provides the cremation itself. Other costs are typically arranged through a funeral service professional and may include:

• Transportation from the place of death
• Required waiting period and storage
• Filing of death records
• A cremation container or simple casket
• Medical examiner fees
• The crematory fee
• Optional services such as memorial services or urns

No. A body must be placed in a rigid, combustible container that ensures safety and dignity during the cremation process. These containers are typically made of fiberboard or similar materials.

A traditional casket may still be used for visitation or funeral services, with the body transferred to an appropriate cremation container afterward if desired.

Cremated remains are typically placed in an urn. Families may choose several options for final placement, including:

• In-ground burial
• Placement in an indoor or outdoor columbarium niche
• Scattering in a designated cemetery scattering garden

At Forest Hills Cemetery, Fern Hill provides a dedicated scattering garden that will remain protected for this purpose in perpetuity.

Scattering is subject to state and local regulations, as well as property permissions. While some locations allow scattering, families are encouraged to choose a permanent and dedicated place of remembrance.

Cemetery scattering gardens provide a protected setting and often include memorial options, allowing loved ones a place to visit and reflect.

Many people choose to make cremation arrangements in advance as part of pre-need planning. Doing so helps ensure personal wishes are honored and relieves loved ones from making difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Advance planning allows individuals to specify service preferences, memorial options, and final placement in a thoughtful and unhurried way.