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Resources for Pregnancy Loss and Infertility

Elizabeth Ministry is an international movement offering encouragement, hope and healing on issues related to childbearing, sexuality and relationships.

Morning Light Ministry offers over-the-phone, one-on-one, or group support and informational materials.

Miscarriage: A Silent Sorrow for those grieving and healing after miscarriage.

A Mom's Peace supports families of miscarried and stillborn souls with bereavement, burial, and remembrance assistance.   

Blessing of Parents after a Miscarriage - EWTN Resource

Burial Resources: 

Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home
Phone: (703) 425-9702

Money and King
Funeral Home and Cremation Services
Phone: (703) 938-7440

 

Workshop on Infertility, Miscarriage, and Infant Loss

Workshop on Infertility, Miscarriage, and Infant Loss

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What does one do with the remains of a miscarried child?

In many instances of miscarriage, there no remains of the child readily available. In such cases, parents may then want to ask their pastor about the appropriate liturgical rites available to them (see "Rites and Commendations" for more information).

However, in the event that remains are available, it is recommended that the remains are kept cold in a suitable container until the day of burial. The parents may ask the doctor or hospital for the remains if they are not offered by the medical institution. Unfortunately, some medical institutions may not allow the remains to be given directly to the parents, but may insist on releasing the child to a funeral home.

If parents choose to retain the remains of their miscarried child, it is important to consider any additional costs if a funeral home is involved.

Parents are encouraged to contact their pastor for arrangement of the appropriate commendation rite and burial arrangements.

What about cremation?

The church permits cremation as long as it is not a statement of the denial in the resurrection of the body (Catechism of the Catholic Church § 2301). Cremated remains should be treated with the same dignity as a deceased body. In other words, cremated remains should have their final resting place in a grave or columbarium.

Where should remains be buried?

The remains, whether or not they are cremated, should be interred in a grave or columbarium. It is strongly advised that the remains be placed in a cemetery so that the dignity of the burial site can be properly protected.