Greece changes law to permit cremation

On September 26, 2008, the highest court of Greece approved the government’s request to legalize cremation.  The petition was opposed by the Orthodox Church which believes that cremation is contrary to its resurrection beliefs.

The court also approved guidelines regarding the disposition of cremains.  They must be scattered at least 1.5 miles from the shore, outside inhabited areas, or at crematoriums which have built gardens or fountains for that purpose.

See AP, Ruling Allows Cremation, NY Times, Sept. 27, 2008.