How Does Cremation Work?
Understanding the Process, Meaning & Ceremony
Discover how cremation transforms the body with dignity and grace. Explore the process, spiritual meanings, legal aspects, and personalized ceremonies with BONAVENTURE’s poetic guide.
Cremation is a sacred transformation—a passage where the physical returns to the earth and the soul embarks on a new journey. At BONAVENTURE, we understand how deeply personal and profound this moment is. This guide walks you through the entire process—from the flames to the final scattering—blending practical answers with reverent reflections and beautiful ceremony.
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📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
Core Process Questions: The Heart of Cremation
What exactly happens during the cremation process?
Cremation begins with care. The body is placed in a combustible container and gently guided into a cremation chamber—sometimes called a retort—where it is exposed to temperatures so high, they mimic the earth’s volcanic core. Over the course of several hours, soft tissue vaporizes, bone fragments remain, and the body is returned to dust. These fragments are then refined into the soft, ash-like material known as cremated remains, ready to be held, scattered, or returned to the wild.
If you’re considering scattering ashes, we invite you to explore our destination scattering services—from the glowing waters of Puget Sound’s Bioluminescence to the sun-washed cliffs of Hawaii.
Is cremation more affordable than traditional burial?
Cremation often offers families a deeply more affordable path to saying goodbye—freeing them from the high costs of burial plots, vaults, caskets, and perpetual cemetery fees. This practical choice opens the door to memorial options that are both elegant and accessible.
At BONAVENTURE, we honor this truth by offering destination ash scattering ceremonies that transform affordability into profound meaning. Families can create a lasting tribute set against nature’s grandeur—whether beneath the soaring peaks of Glacier National Park or along the shimmering shores of Pensacola—all without the burdensome price of traditional burial.
This accessible, eco-conscious choice not only honors your loved one’s story but also invites families into a healing experience that transcends cost. To learn more about the meaningful simplicity of scattering ceremonies, explore our guide, How Destination Ash Scattering Works.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
How much does cremation cost?
Costs vary by region and service level: But most cremations are between $800-1,500. Traditional burial costs between $8,000-20,000. (NFDA)
Cremation is more affordable than traditional burial, with basic cremation services covering transportation, paperwork, the cremation process, and the return of ashes. Families can add personalized ceremonies, memorials, or scattering options. BONAVENTURE’s destination scattering packages offer meaningful, curated experiences that honor your loved one’s spirit and story.
How hot does a cremation chamber get?
The flames within a cremation chamber reach between 1,400°F and 1,800°F, a heat not unlike molten lava. It is this intensity that ensures the body is fully transformed, reduced to the mineral essence of what once was—bone, calcium, ash. In that fire, the story of a life is returned to its simplest form.
How long does cremation take?
Time inside the retort slows and deepens. Cremation takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the person and the equipment used. Add in cooling and processing, and the full process may last 4 to 6 hours. In the quiet of that time, the body is gently released from its earthly form.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
What are the stages of cremation?
The stages of cremation unfold with dignity:
Preparation: The body is placed in a cremation container, and any medical devices (like pacemakers) are removed.
Cremation: The container enters the chamber, where flames purify and reduce the body to bone fragments.
Cooling: The remains are left to rest and cool, often for an hour.
Processing: Bone fragments are carefully gathered, any metals are removed, and the remains are ground into the texture we call ashes.
Families who choose to scatter ashes later can request that BONAVENTURE return the processed remains in a biodegradable urn or container designed for eco-conscious ceremonies.
What happens to the body during cremation?
The body, once so full of breath and memory, undergoes a sacred unraveling. Soft tissues evaporate in the heat. The skeleton—resilient and ancient—remains, eventually breaking down into fragments. What’s left is not just ash, but the elemental trace of a life. It is this powder, rich in calcium and carbon, that families receive to keep or release.
Are bones really burned during cremation?
Not exactly burned, but transformed. Bones do not disappear in the flame—they remain after all else has gone. These fragments, chalky and resilient, are then mechanically processed into a fine, sand-like texture. The ashes you hold are mostly bone—what endures after everything else returns to smoke and sky.
Learn more about what ashes are made of and how time changes their texture and meaning in What Happens to Cremated Ashes Over Time.
What happens to metal implants or prosthetics during cremation?
Metal survives fire. Hip replacements, screws, or fillings do not burn. After cremation, these are removed by hand or magnet and either disposed of responsibly or recycled, depending on the crematory. They do not become part of the ashes. What remains is entirely organic, entirely human.
Are coffins or caskets cremated with the body?
Yes—though not the heavy, ornate caskets of burial. Most cremations use simple wooden or cardboard containers, chosen for their combustibility. These containers are cremated alongside the body and assist the ignition process. For families seeking simplicity, a shroud or biodegradable wrap may also be used.
Is the body cremated with clothes on?
It depends on family wishes. In direct cremations, the deceased is often wrapped in a cloth shroud or basic cremation gown. If the body is dressed for a farewell or viewing, those clothes typically remain during cremation. Fabrics—like skin and tissue—vaporize in the chamber, becoming part of the unseen smoke that rises.
Are multiple bodies ever cremated together?
No. Every cremation is individual. Strict laws and ethical standards prohibit multiple bodies from being cremated together, except in rare cases (such as a parent and child, by family request and legal exception). Identification is safeguarded at every step, ensuring that the ashes returned belong to your loved one alone.
BONAVENTURE honors this same sacred commitment in every destination ash scattering—handling one life, one story, one final journey at a time.
⚖️ Legal, Ethical & Regulatory Aspects
Is cremation regulated in the U.S.?
Yes. Cremation is governed by state and federal laws to protect identity, safety, and dignity. Licensed crematories follow strict protocols—from verifying the identity of your loved one to ensuring that ashes are returned correctly. BONAVENTURE works closely with regulated crematories and abides by these standards to offer families trusted peace of mind.
Do you need a permit to cremate a body?
Generally, yes. Before cremation can occur, legal authorizations must be secured, including death certificates and cremation permits issued by medical examiners or coroners. These permits confirm that cremation is lawful and appropriate. These processes are seamlessly managed by your funeral or cremation provider as part of the service.
Are there environmental concerns with cremation?
Traditional cremation emits carbon dioxide and trace pollutants, but advances in technology have greatly reduced emissions. When compared to burial—land use, embalming chemicals, and vaults—cremation is a lighter footprint on the earth. BONAVENTURE also offers eco-conscious options, such as scattering ashes in protected natural areas like the Olympic National Forest or the Sandhill Crane Migration, supporting the cycle of life with reverence.
What is alkaline hydrolysis, and is it different from flame cremation?
Alkaline hydrolysis is a water-based, gentle alternative that uses heat and alkaline chemicals to dissolve the body’s tissues. It leaves behind purified bone fragments, similar to flame cremation ashes, but with a far smaller carbon footprint. Though still emerging, it offers families another meaningful choice for returning their loved one to nature.
Is cremation legal in all religions?
Religious views on cremation vary widely. While many faiths embrace it as part of spiritual renewal—like Hinduism, Buddhism, and increasingly Christianity—others like Judaism and Islam prefer burial. BONAVENTURE respects all traditions and crafts ceremonies that honor personal beliefs and sacred customs.
For thoughtful answers to faith-related questions and how BONAVENTURE can help, see our comprehensive resource: Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Ask About Cremation.
Religious & Cultural Perspectives On Ash Scattering
What does the Bible say about cremation?
The Bible does not explicitly command burial over cremation. Though traditional Christian burial has been common, scripture offers no prohibition against cremation. Modern Christian denominations increasingly accept cremation as a respectful choice, emphasizing the soul’s eternal journey beyond the body. For families seeking Christian comfort in cremation, BONAVENTURE supports ceremonies imbued with sacred scripture and ritual.
Is cremation allowed in Catholicism?
The Catholic Church historically preferred burial, but since 1963, it permits cremation if it is not chosen for reasons contrary to Christian teachings (such as denying the resurrection of the body). The Church encourages families to keep ashes in a sacred place—never scattering or dividing them—and to hold memorial services that honor the deceased’s faith. BONAVENTURE’s offerings can be tailored to uphold these sacred traditions.
Do Jewish traditions permit cremation?
Traditional Judaism forbids cremation, emphasizing burial to honor the body as a vessel of the soul. However, more progressive Jewish movements and secular families sometimes choose cremation, reflecting personal conviction and modern practice. Whatever the choice, respect and ritual remain central.
What is the Hindu view of cremation?
Hinduism sees cremation as a sacred rite of passage—liberating the soul from the physical body and aiding its journey toward reincarnation or moksha (liberation). The cremation fire symbolizes purification, and ceremonies often include prayers, mantras, and the scattering of ashes in sacred rivers. BONAVENTURE honors these traditions with ceremonies that echo nature’s eternal rhythms.
Is cremation common in Buddhism?
Many Buddhist traditions embrace cremation as a natural return to the elements. The act symbolizes impermanence and the freeing of the spirit. Monks often chant and families hold memorial rites to support the departed in their spiritual journey. BONAVENTURE’s destination ceremonies can incorporate Buddhist elements of peace and mindfulness.
How do Native American tribes view cremation?
Native American customs vary widely. Some tribes practice cremation, while others prefer burial or alternative rites. The emphasis is often on honoring ancestors, the land, and the spirit’s ongoing journey. BONAVENTURE respectfully engages with Native traditions, ensuring ceremonies are mindful and culturally appropriate.
Ash Scattering Emotional & Philosophical Questions
Is cremation painful for the soul?
In the quiet space where fire meets flesh, there is no pain—only transformation. Many believe the soul, eternal and boundless, is untouched by the physical process. Cremation is not an end, but a beginning: a gentle release into the great cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
If you wonder whether ashes carry bad luck or superstition, explore our compassionate insights in Are Ashes Bad Luck?.
What happens spiritually during cremation?
Spiritually, cremation can be a sacred passage. In the flames, the body is purified; the soul is freed. Across cultures, fire is a symbol of renewal, cleansing, and light guiding the departed onward. Those left behind often find solace in the knowledge that the essence of their loved one returns to the earth, water, or sky.
Learn more about how ashes change over time in What Happens to Cremated Ashes Over Time.
Why do some people prefer cremation over burial?
For many, cremation offers freedom—freedom from land restrictions, freedom from tradition, and freedom to create a farewell as unique as the life lived. It allows ashes to scatter where memories reside: mountain peaks, ocean shores, or hidden forests. Cremation is both practical and poetic, a bridge between permanence and impermanence.
Discover the beauty and meaning of scattering ashes at sea in our guide, Scattering Ashes at Sea: What You Need to Know.
Is it okay to feel uneasy about cremation?
Absolutely. Grief is never linear, and cremation can stir unexpected feelings—fear, uncertainty, even guilt. These feelings are part of honoring a life, not denying it. Talking openly, seeking guidance, and choosing meaningful ceremonies—such as those BONAVENTURE provides—can help turn unease into peace.
Read our full guide on embracing meaningful farewells in The Only Guide You Need: What to Say for a Unique Celebration of Life.
For a deeper understanding of how BONAVENTURE honors every scattering, visit How Destination Ash Scattering Works: BONAVENTURE’s Team, Process, Places & Purpose.
Practical Concerns About Ash Scattering & Cremation
Can I choose what to wear for my cremation?
Yes. Whether clothed in a favorite garment, wrapped in a simple shroud, or placed in a cremation gown, your wishes can be honored. Fabric becomes part of the sacred flame, a final embrace of memory and love. If you want to learn more about how cremation ceremonies can be personalized, explore our blog on How Destination Ash Scattering Works.
Do I need a casket for cremation?
No. Many cremations are performed using a simple, combustible container—often made of wood or cardboard—designed specifically for this purpose. Some families choose to forgo a container altogether and opt for a shroud or cremation gown, respecting both tradition and eco-conscious values. For those wishing to honor their loved ones with ceremony but without elaborate caskets, BONAVENTURE offers thoughtfully designed options.
🌿 See Available National Park Destinations →
📞 Speak to a Memorial Specialist: (515) 206-4845
bonaventurememorial@gmail.com
Can you cremate someone who has a pacemaker?
No. Pacemakers and other devices that contain batteries or explosive components must be removed before cremation to avoid safety hazards and equipment damage. This step is standard in all professional cremation services and handled with care and respect.
What happens if a body is embalmed before cremation?
Embalming preserves the body for viewing or transportation but is not required for cremation. Embalmed bodies can still be cremated, though some families prefer not to embalm for environmental or personal reasons. If you want to understand the full scope of cremation preparation, see our comprehensive guide, Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Ask About Cremation.
What happens to the ashes if no one claims them?
Unclaimed ashes are handled according to state law and crematory policy. Some facilities respectfully scatter them in designated natural areas or retain them for a set period. Families choosing BONAVENTURE’s services can rest assured that every scattering is performed with reverence in breathtaking locations, such as the Mount Rainier National Park or along the Whale Trail at Ruby Beach.
For more on how to honor ashes through scattering or combining, see our Guide to Combining & Scattering Ashes.
Ash Scattering: Closing Reflections
A Journey Home: Embracing Cremation with Love and Meaning
Cremation, at its heart, is a profound story of transformation—of return, release, and remembrance. It is a bridge between what was and what will be, a moment when the physical fades but love endures.
Whether you choose to hold ashes in your hands or scatter them across wild places—mountains, oceans, forests—know that BONAVENTURE is here to guide your journey with care, beauty, and reverence.
For more on how we honor each story, explore our blog: How Destination Ash Scattering Works: BONAVENTURE’s Team, Process, Places & Purpose.
And when you’re ready to take the next step, our personalized packages await—each designed to connect your loved one’s legacy to the earth’s eternal embrace.
How to Ship Ashes Safely
Shipping cremated remains may feel daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. BONAVENTURE will walk you through every step.
To get started, order the USPS Cremated Remains Kit. It’s designed for safe, legal transport and includes everything needed for compliant shipping.
For complete guidance on how to combine ashes or ship them for scattering, read our full resource:
A Total Guide to Combining & Scattering Ashes
For National Park Scattering: Permits & Resources
If you're considering a National Park as your scattering site, be sure to follow proper procedures. BONAVENTURE handles permits for our services, but families should be aware of:
