Choosing between cremation and burial is an important decision that affects personal beliefs as well as your budget and the expectations of your loved ones. At Complexe funéraire Aeterna, located in Montreal, we assist families of all cultures in their funeral choices, respecting their needs and traditions.

This comparative guide has been designed to help you make an informed choice, whether you are planning your funeral pre-arrangements or dealing with the loss of a loved one.

 

1. What are your religious or spiritual beliefs?

Several religious traditions can influence how we view the disposition of the body. Here is an overview of funeral practices according to different religions in the Greater Montreal area:

 

Catholicism

Once prohibited, cremation is now permitted by the Catholic Church, provided that the ashes are kept in a sacred place, such as a columbarium or cemetery. However, burial remains the most traditional choice for Catholics.

 

Greek Orthodoxy

Burial is considered a sacred practice and cremation is generally not permitted. The Complexe funéraire Aeterna has a cemetery area dedicated to the Greek Orthodox community, fully respecting the rites and traditions associated with this religion.

 

Hinduism

Cremation is the most common practice in the religion of Hinduism, as it reflects a spiritual view of the soul's passage to its next journey.

 

Buddhism

Both options are possible, although cremation is frequently preferred in several Buddhist traditions.

 

Judaism

Jewish tradition clearly favors burial. Some more liberal branches of Judaism accept cremation, but it remains rare.

 

Islam

Islamic law prohibits cremation. Burial must be carried out according to specific rituals. Muslim families therefore generally choose this option.

 

Even if you are not religious or do not adhere to any particular faith, your personal values and spiritual practices can still guide your choice.

For example, you may want your final resting place to:

• Be in keeping with your desire for simplicity.
• Reflect your environmental values.
• Allow your loved ones to pay their respects in a different way.

Whether you are religious or not, practicing or not, the Complexe Aeterna offers customized funeral services and personalized support.

 

2. Would you like to offer your loved ones a specific place to gather?

The choice between cremation and burial as a method of disposal also depends on the type of memorial site where you would like your loved ones to gather after your passing.

By considering the type of space that corresponds to your values and the emotional needs of your loved ones, you will be better able to make your decision.

 

The cemetery

The cemetery is a traditional outdoor resting place where the bodies of the deceased are buried. Some families appreciate the continuity offered by a family plot, for example, and the idea that several generations can rest together.

Burial in a cemetery offers:

• A lasting and personalized monument.
• An outdoor place of remembrance.
• An accessible gathering place.

The Aeterna team can help you choose a burial space that suits your needs in a cemetery located in the Greater Montreal area.

 

The columbarium

The columbarium is an indoor or outdoor resting place where urns containing the ashes of the deceased are kept after cremation.

The indoor columbarium at the Complexe Aeterna allows you to pay your respects in a modern, bright space that is sheltered from the elements. Accessible in all seasons, it offers individual niches (for a single urn) and family niches (for several urns).

 

3. What budget do you want to allocate to funeral disposal?

Since the costs differ between cremation and burial, the budget remains an important consideration when choosing your type of disposal.

Cremation is generally a more affordable option. The costs associated with cremation include technical and administrative procedures, the urn, and, if desired, the reservation of a niche in a columbarium.

Burial usually involves a slightly higher budget, since in addition to technical and administrative procedures, there is the cost of producing the headstone (also called a tombstone), reserving a plot in a cemetery, and maintaining it.

It is entirely possible to choose burial, even with a more modest investment. Our family advisors will be able to offer you solutions tailored to your budget that respect your wishes.

 

4. Do you have family traditions to follow?

For many, family traditions play an essential role in choosing the type of disposal, whether burial or cremation. For example, some wish to rest alongside their family or spouse. They will therefore choose burial in order to be part of a family plot.

For others, cultural traditions shared with their peers influence their choice of disposal. For example, even if a person does not practice the religion of their parents, they may wish to honor the funeral rites associated with it.

 

Make an informed choice with Complexe Aeterna

If you would like to discuss your funeral pre-arrangements or offer a dignified final resting place to a loved one, our team is here to help.

Make an appointment with one of our experienced advisors.

 

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

 

Is cremation less expensive than burial in Montreal?

Yes. In general, cremation costs less than burial. However, it is still possible to choose burial, even on a more modest budget.

 

Which religions allow cremation?

Catholicism, Hinduism, and several Buddhist traditions accept cremation. Islam, traditional Judaism, and Greek Orthodoxy, on the other hand, discourage it.

 

Where can I find a modern indoor columbarium in Montreal?

The Complexe funéraire Aeterna offers an elegant indoor columbarium that is accessible year-round. Its serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place to rest or gather for remembrance.

 

Why plan my funeral pre-arrangements?

Funeral pre-arrangements allow you to express your wishes, simplify the process for your loved ones, and control the costs associated with funeral services.

 

How do I choose between cremation and burial?

To choose the type of disposal that is right for you, consider your beliefs, traditions, budget, and the type of resting place you desire.