Question 228 – Should I Bury the Ashes of My Nephew?

Interview Organization: The Confraternity of Our Lady of Fatima
Interviewer Name: Christopher Wendt
Date: November 13, 2023
Bishop Schneider emphasizes that the remains or ashes of a deceased person, especially those baptized, must be treated with dignity, as the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Ideally, they should be buried in a cemetery, but if difficult, this is not a moral obligation. Prayers for the deceased are essential.
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Transcript:

The remains of a deceased person, or their ashes, must be buried and treated with respect because our body was a temple of the Holy Spirit, especially for those who are baptized. They have the right to be treated with dignity, and therefore, the proper place for burial is a cemetery, if possible. If burying the remains causes great difficulties, you are not morally obligated to do so.

However, if it is possible without significant challenges, you should bury the ashes with respect and offer prayers for the soul of the deceased. Yes, this is the proper course of action.