Changing habits in the disposal of human ashes

Although legalised in 1884, cremation only became wider practice in the 1960’s, following which ashes were normally scattered in the crematorium’s Garden of Remembrance. However a study by Professor Jenny Hockey of Sheffield University and others (2007) shows that while in the 1970’s only 10% of ashes were removed from the crematorium by relatives or a friend, by 2004 over 56% were removed for disposal elsewhere. The interesting factor for clergy in this study comes from Hockey’s discovery of two issues arising from this removal. Firstly, the belief by the person removing these ashes for a more appropriate disposal will assist with their own wellbeing. Secondly, their belief that finding an appropriate last resting place for these ashes will affect the continuing wellbeing of the deceased.