Q.  Why doesn't the Church allow cremated remains to be scattered or kept in a home?

A.  The Church believes cremated remains of a body should be treated with the same respect given the human body from which they come.   If cremated remains are not treated with honor and dignity, cremation can allow for disrespect of the human body.   Scattering the ashes deprives loved ones and descendants of the opportunity to visit the remains where they can pray and reflect upon the life and memory of the deceased.  Dividing the cremated remains among family and friends or keeping them in the home seems to diminish the respect for human life and shows a lack of proper respect and dignity for the dead.  The internment of the cremains of the deceased person normally takes place at a cemetery, either in the ground or in a crypt.