Editor’s note: After the Saturday funeral for Bill Wilcox, I asked the Rev. Craig M. Kallio of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church a few questions about Wilcox’s cremation and burial in St. Stephen’s Memorial Garden. 

Here is his response to my question about cremation, and Wilcox’s burial in a handmade linen bag tied with a hand-knotted cord. 

Kallio: Bill was cremated and interred in our Memorial Garden. This burial option has become more popular among Episcopalians within the last 20 years, though the custom is quite ancient.

One reason for opting to use cremation is that of being good stewards. It takes into consideration the simplicity and cost. Rather than going with an elaborate funeral, our resources are better used elsewhere. [Read more…]