Image via Krysja / Shutterstock.com
Yes, this topic is heavy, but it’s also one of those things we all have to face eventually.
On a recent episode of The Patrick Madrid Show, Cindy from Wisconsin called in with a question that many of us wrestle with: “As I get older, should I be buried or cremated? What does the Catholic Church say?”
And boy, did Patrick give a thoughtful — and deeply Catholic — response. 👇
💬 What Patrick Said
Burial is the Church’s preferred method.
Patrick reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19), destined for resurrection!
Cremation? Allowed — but not ideal.
Patrick explains the Church used to ban cremation because it was sometimes chosen as a way to deny belief in the resurrection. Nowadays, it’s permitted if it’s not done as a statement against Church teaching. Still, the preference is to treat the body with reverence by burying it intact.
💸 Money talks… and burials cost $$$.
Patrick acknowledges that the decision to choose cremation often comes down to cost, and he understands. Personally, he’s totally against cremation. He sees it as the destruction of the temple of the Holy Spirit, even if done legally and with care.
Bonus Resource Alert!
Patrick also mentioned resource from Relevant Radio: CatholicLegacy.com. And yes, it’s free.
What you’ll find there:
-A Catholic will & estate planner
-Healthcare directives in line with Catholic teaching
-Funeral planning guides
-Info on what happens if you die without a will
🙏 Final Thoughts
It’s not morbid to talk about this issue — it’s actually super Catholic. St. Augustine even wrote a book called “On the Care that Should Be Had for the Dead.” 📖🪦
Now go call your mom and tell her you’re working on your Catholic will. She’ll be very impressed. 😉
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