Cremation Services
Why Choose Cremation?
In Pennsylvania, more and more people are now selecting cremation in lieu of a traditional burial for many different reasons. There are many benefits for selecting cremation, and should be considered before making a final selection of funeral services. Cremation is not an alternative to a funeral, but rather an alternative to burials. In any selection, cremation is a respected form of funeral arrangements and disposition and offers many ways to memorialize a loved one.
Cost
Most times cremation is less expensive than a traditional burial since less services/merchandise are required or selected.
Options
The memorial service can be held in our chapel, a church, or any other venue the family chooses. We work with our families to design a service that honors their loved one with stories, music, or scripture. We also have life celebrants that lead services where clergy may not be chosen. Our celebrants are trained in creating experiences that help start the healing process.
Religion Preferences
Some religions welcome cremation, while others forbid it, which is prompting more people to select cremation. In Christian denominations, cremation is now widely accepted. In Catholicism, cremation is now accepted by the Catholic Church. In eastern religions such as Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, and Buddhism, cremation is mandated. In Islam, it is strictly forbidden. Orthodox Jews also forbid cremation, while other sects of Judaism support cremation; however, burial remains the preferred option.
What does cremation entail?
Cremation is a process that utilizes a specialized machine called a Retort which is located at a Crematory. After being placed in this machine, a deceased person's human remains are subjected to high heat and temperature and turned into ash. The process involves many detailed steps which are handled with great care and sensitivity.
Your Cremation Options
Whether selecting a basic direct cremation service or something more ornate, there are many choices to consider. This is also an important time to also consider ways to honor and celebrate the deceased and a life well lived.

We Offer Three Cremation Options
Cremation with a Memorial Service
starts at $4,398*
These services are similar to a funeral you have probably attended. After a decedent is cremated a Memorial service can take place at Bednar Funeral Home or your church, and usually consists of 1-2 hours of calling with a funeral service to follow, led by a minister or celebrant. The urn is usually on display at the service. This can occur at any time after the cremation process. An arrangement like this starts at $4,398*
starts at $5,998*
Traditional Cremation Service
These services are much like a traditional funeral. The body of the deceased is prepared and placed in a cremation or ceremonial casket, and a viewing and/or Funeral Service take place at Bednar Funeral Home or your church. After the services, the decedent is cremated rather than being buried.
Once the cremation has occurred, the cremated remains are buried or returned to your family. You can then decide to keep the cremated remains or to scatter or bury at the later date. An arrangement like this starts at $5,998*.
starts at $2,495*
Direct Cremation
This service involves the transportation of the deceased from the place of death, sheltering of the remains and refrigeration, completion of all required documents, transportation to the crematory, the cremation process, and return of the cremated remains. An arrangement like this starts at $2,495*
*These prices reflect a discount made at the time of arrangement. They include professional services and select merchandise, but do not include cash advanced items, outer burial containers if required, cemetery property, or opening/closing costs. If any services or merchandise are not desired, no credit will be given.
