Still considered marginal just a few years ago, cremation is now the preferred option for more than a third of French people choose cremation for their own funeral. Despite this evolution, the ceremonial surrounding this mode of burial is slow to take root in the collective consciousness. Nevertheless, the scattering of ashes remains a very important ceremony for the family and loved ones of the deceased.
The absence of a place of remembrance can pose problems
As a reminder, since December 19, 2008, legislation has prohibited the sharing and conservation of the ashes of the deceased in a private home. Ashes must be preserved in an urn placed in a grave, deposited in a columbarium or scattered in a memorial garden. Unlike the first two options, the garden of remembrance does not offer a physically individualized for loved ones to mourn. The ashes of the deceased are scattered in a dedicated area of the cemetery, shared by all.
However, it is important not to neglect the need to establish a place of remembrance for the loved ones of the deceased. Not having a physically defined place can indeed disrupt their mourning. To personify this communal space, local authorities can equip the garden of remembrance with accessoriess accessories, such as " book of remembrance " or " tables of memory "to inscribe the names of the deceased in the collective memory.
Don't neglect scattering ceremonies
Traditionally practiced in all religions, burial is followed by a religious ceremony during which family and friends pay tribute to the memory of the deceased. In addition to paying tribute to the deceased, this moment of meditation allows loved ones to gather together and pray for him/her. The grieving process can then begin.
However, this spiritual approach is far from systematic when the solution chosen by the deceased or his or her loved ones is cremation. As cemetery managers, mayors have a duty to remind families that the scattering of ashes does not exclude remembrance, and is no less important for that. It is a unique and irreversible act which, like other forms of funeral, requires time for reflection. How do you say goodbye to the deceased? What tribute should be paid? These are just some of the questions you need to ask yourself when the time comes. For more information or personalized assistance, don't hesitate to contact our team.
