Burial of Stillborns and
Fetuses: The Church urges that stillborns and fetuses of
Catholic parents be interred whenever possible and in a Catholic
cemetery when available. The decision and procedure for the
interment will be left to the parents and their pastor.
Disposal of Amputated Limbs: It is recommended that
amputated limbs be buried in a blessed place. However, hospital
personnel may dispose of portions of bodies in a manner they
deem most suitable and hygienic. Cremation is not excluded but
the preference of the individual or the family should not be
disregarded.
Organ Transplants and Donations
of Bodies for Medical Science: Because of the achievements
of science and medicine, particularly in the matter of organ
transplants, requests are made occasionally to donate organs or
to donate one's body to science. Such requests are legitimate
and not contrary to Christian principles. However, in keeping
with Christian respect for the body, there should be reasonable
assurance that the remains, when it is possible and practicable,
will be disposed of in a proper, reverent and dignified manner
upon completion of the scientific research.
