Does the LDS Church allow cremation?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints generally prefers burial but does not formally prohibit cremation, leaving the decision to the family while encouraging them to follow local laws and customs. Where a member had received temple ordinances, the family can consult their bishop about dressing the body in temple clothing even if cremation follows.

Who conducts an LDS funeral?

A member of the bishopric (usually the bishop) typically conducts the service, which is held in a meetinghouse or at a funeral home. It is a reverent, Christ-centered service rather than a celebration with elaborate displays, focused on the comfort of the gospel and the plan of salvation.

What is temple clothing?

Members who have received their temple endowment are often dressed in white temple clothing for burial. The family can arrange this with the funeral home and, if needed, ask Relief Society or priesthood leaders for help. If you are unsure, the bishop can guide the family through the details.

What happens at a Latter-day Saint (LDS) funeral?

By Calla Editorial · Updated June 2026

Latter-day Saint funerals are usually reverent church services focused on the plan of salvation and reunion after death. Burial is preferred, and a temple-worthy member may be dressed in temple clothing.

Funerals in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are reverent, Christ-centered services that emphasize the plan of salvation — the belief that families can be reunited after death. They are typically simple and dignified rather than elaborate.

The service

The funeral is usually held in a ward meetinghouse or a funeral home and conducted by the bishop. It includes hymns, prayers, talks (sermons) about the gospel and the life of the person, and musical numbers. The tone is one of hope and comfort grounded in the doctrine of eternal families.

Burial and temple clothing

Burial is preferred, though cremation is not formally forbidden. Members who have received their temple endowment are often dressed in white temple clothing for burial, which the family arranges with the funeral home. The grave is frequently dedicated by a priesthood holder in a short prayer at the cemetery.

The graveside dedication

At the cemetery, a Melchizedek priesthood holder may offer a dedicatory prayer over the grave, asking that the resting place be hallowed and protected until the resurrection. This is a distinctive and meaningful part of an LDS burial.

Planning an LDS funeral

Contact the bishop early — the ward often helps coordinate and may provide a meal.
Decide on burial (preferred) and ask about temple clothing if the member was endowed.
Arrange a priesthood holder for the graveside dedication if desired.
Relief Society frequently assists with food and support for the family.

The family's bishop is the right person to consult for specifics, including questions about temple clothing and cremation.

Common questions

Does the LDS Church allow cremation?: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints generally prefers burial but does not formally prohibit cremation, leaving the decision to the family while encouraging them to follow local laws and customs. Where a member had received temple ordinances, the family can consult their bishop about dressing the body in temple clothing even if cremation follows.
Who conducts an LDS funeral?: A member of the bishopric (usually the bishop) typically conducts the service, which is held in a meetinghouse or at a funeral home. It is a reverent, Christ-centered service rather than a celebration with elaborate displays, focused on the comfort of the gospel and the plan of salvation.
What is temple clothing?: Members who have received their temple endowment are often dressed in white temple clothing for burial. The family can arrange this with the funeral home and, if needed, ask Relief Society or priesthood leaders for help. If you are unsure, the bishop can guide the family through the details.

Sources

Reviewed and maintained by Calla Editorial. This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. See our editorial standards.