Viewing a cremation is very different from a viewing service. It’s also different from religious views on cremation.
Being able to view a cremation means that you are present and see the body enter the cremation retort. It’s often called a witness cremation. For safety purposes, people can’t be in the room with the cremation unit, but you can view the cremation process through a window.
Viewing a cremation is possible, but the real question is why people choose to do so.
Why Some People Choose to View the Cremation
Like so many aspects of funeral services, there are a variety of reasons why a person makes this personal choice. As a direct cremation provider we find that there are four primary reasons for why family members choose to view a cremation.
It’s a Way to Say a Final Goodbye
Being able to be there for the cremation can serve as an opportunity for loved ones to say one last goodbye. It’s the last time that they’ll see the deceased and be able to express their feelings in-person with the body present. Even if you don’t want to see the body enter the retort, some people like having the option of saying goodbye this way.
For a Sense of Closure
For many people viewing the body just before and as it is put into the retort provides a sense of closure. It’s the same sense of closure that people get seeing a casket lowered into a burial plot and covered with earth. There’s a finality to it when you actually see the body go into the cremation unit.
To Ensure the Cremation is Handled Appropriately
No matter how legitimate a crematory is, some people have misgivings about the process and how it’s handled. Some people even question if the cremains they receive are really the remains of their loved one.
We understand that for many years cremation was shrouded in mystery, partly because family members didn’t see the cremation happen. So being given that option can provide assurance that the cremation is handled in a dignified manner that’s respectful. It also ensures for the family that the cremains coming out are those of their loved one.
Simple Curiosity
While the points above may be factors, some people are simply curious about how cremations are conducted. That curiosity is enough to prompt them to choose to see the process firsthand. After all, most people may only have the opportunity to view a cremation once or twice in their life.
Do All Crematory’s Offer to Let Families View the Cremation?
If you are interested in seeing the cremation take place, that should be discussed before you choose a crematory. Not all facilities offer it as an option. Usually it isn’t offered because the facility simply isn’t equipped to allow visitors to view the procedure.
Direct Cremate can help families and individuals plan out a cremation that meets all of their needs in an efficient and affordable way. Contact us if you’d like to know more about the process and your options for viewing the cremation.