Keeping a loved one’s ashes at home has become increasingly common and is often seen as a way to keep their memory close.

However, this choice can carry different implications depending on one’s religious or spiritual beliefs. Below, we explore how two perspectives interpret this practice: Spiritism and Christianity.

Spiritist Perspective

In Spiritism, death is viewed as a transition in which the spirit leaves the physical body to continue its growth in the spiritual realm. During this process, the spirit can be influenced by the emotions and thoughts of its loved ones who remain on Earth. From this perspective, keeping a deceased person’s ashes at home may disrupt the spirit’s peace and progress, especially if family members are deeply attached or have not yet accepted their passing.

Spiritist teachings explain that emotional attachment to physical remains, such as ashes, can act like a tether that keeps the spirit connected to the earthly plane. This attachment may be uncomfortable for the spirit, as its evolution depends on being free from material ties.

For this reason, many who follow this doctrine believe it is best for the spiritual well-being of the deceased to place the ashes in a proper resting place or scatter them in nature, allowing the spirit to continue its journey without obstacles.

Christian Perspective

Christianity teaches that the body is sacred, and that death marks the beginning of eternal life in God’s presence. Traditionally, human remains are buried in a cemetery or another holy place as a sign of respect for that sacredness. Although cremation was once discouraged in some Christian denominations, it is now generally accepted as long as the ashes are treated with reverence.

In the Catholic Church, for example, cremation is allowed, but it is recommended that the ashes be placed in a consecrated space such as a cemetery or columbarium, rather than kept at home.

This is because the Church believes a sacred resting place is more appropriate for honoring the deceased, and keeping the ashes at home may diminish the sense of respect and solemnity owed to the body. Additionally, having a designated place of rest helps loved ones in the grieving process, offering them a peaceful space to visit and remember the deceased.

Final Reflection: A Personal Decision

Both Spiritism and Christianity provide meaningful perspectives on what to do with a loved one’s ashes. However, grief is deeply personal, and every individual finds comfort in different practices.

For some, keeping the ashes at home represents peace and closeness; for others, placing them in a sacred location or returning them to nature symbolizes release and respect.

Ultimately, this is a deeply personal choice and deserves to be respected. Each family and individual should consider what brings them emotional peace while honoring the memory of their loved one.

What matters most is the love, reverence, and intention behind the decision—and how it helps bring serenity to those who make it.