Frequently Asked Questions

Why Cremation?
People choose cremation for a variety of reasons. Some do so based on environmental considerations. Others have philosophical or religious reasons. Still others choose cremation because they feel it is simpler and less complicated. Whatever the reason, we’re here to help you with any questions you may have regarding cremation, and how you may plan and fund your services in advance.

Why Cremation-Specialists?
We are a small, family-oriented service provider, not a large state or nationwide cremation society. We do not require a society membership fee. We provide competitive, personal and individual service.

Is Embalming Required Prior To Cremation?
We have modern refrigeration facilities which negate the necessity for embalming.

Are There Any Laws Governing Cremation?
Cremation regulations vary from state-to-state. In Pennsylvania, there are several laws of which the consumer should be aware. First, there is a 24 hour waiting period from the time of death until the cremation can take place. Second, a cremation authorization form must be signed by the individual(s) legally authorized to make the cremation arrangements. Finally, cremation cannot take place until the approval has been obtained from the corresponding Medical Examiner.

Is Cremation Accepted By All Religions?
Today most religions allow cremation with the exception of Orthodox Jewish, Islam, Eastern Orthodox and a few Fundamentalist Christian faiths. The Catholic Church accepts cremation as long as it is not chosen for reasons which are contrary to Christian teachings. Some people believe that cremation is against the teachings of the Bible, but according to one famous biblical scholar, “what occurs to the body after death has no bearing on the soul’s resurrection. The body that rises is not made of the same substances as the one that was buried, or cremated, but is immortal and incorruptible.”

Is A Casket Needed For Cremation?
 No, a casket is not required for cremation. All that is usually required by most states is an alternative container constructed of wood or cardboard, which is cremated with the body. In some states, no container is required.

What Do The Cremated Remains Look Like?
Cremated remains resemble coarse sand and are whitish to light grey in color. The cremated remains of an average size adult usually weigh between four to six pounds.

Can An Urn Be Brought Into Church?
Yes in most all cases.

Are All The Cremated Remains Returned?
With the exception of minute and microscopic particles, which are impossible to remove from the cremation chamber and processing machine, all of the cremated remains are given back to the family.

Can Two Cremations Be Performed At Once?
Never. Not only is it illegal to do so, most modern cremation chambers are not of sufficient size to accommodate more than one adult. Thus it would be a practical impossibility to conduct multiple cremations simultaneously.

What Happens After The Cremation is Complete?
All organic bone fragments, which are very brittle, as well as non-consumed metal items are “swept” into the back of the cremation chamber and into a stainless steel cooling pan. All non-consumed items, like metal from clothing, hip joints, and bridge work, are separated from the cremated remains. This separation is accomplished through visual inspection as well as using a strong magnet for smaller and minute metallic objects. Items such as dental gold and silver are non-recoverable and are combined with the cremated remains. Remaining bone fragments are then processed in a machine to a consistent size and placed into a temporary or permanent urn, selected by the family.
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610-532-2308
Cavanagh's Cremation Services, Inc.
Vincent Paul Cavanagh II, Supervisor
   ©2003 MKJ MARKETING