Columbarium

What is a Columbarium?

A columbarium is an outdoor structure with niches (compartments) where urns containing the cremains of our loved ones are interred. For many people raised in the Catholic Church, a columbarium may be a new concept, though it actually has its roots in the early church. The columbarium at SSCC will offer people the options of inurnment on the SSCC property.

What is the Catholic Teaching on Cremation?

Over the last several years there has been a significant rise in the choice of cremation over the traditional embalmment option due to sanitary, economic, and social considerations. This growing choice of cremation has compelled the Catholic Church to issue instructions on the practice of cremation. There has been much confusion on this topic in recent years because in the past the church did indeed prohibit the practice of cremation. The Church now allows for the practice of cremation. Furthermore, it also communicates that the Church wants to ensure that the deceased are interred in a sacred place so that they are never excluded from prayers of the Christian community. A columbarium on the parish grounds would ensure that the deceased have a dignified resting place, and the families will never be forgotten in prayer as we await in joyful hope of the coming of our Savior.

Where will the SSCC Columbarium be located?

Plans are for the columbarium at SSCC to be located in the grass area along the south wall of the church, east of the courtyard. See attached artist rendering. This is only a tentative sketch and may not reflect the final appearance.

Who is Paying for the Columbarium?

The SSCC columbarium and its continued upkeep will be funded solely by the sale of niches. The project will not begin construction until enough niches are sold in the pre-sale timeframe to pay for the project. Sale of future niches will continue to pay for maintenance and fund future expansion.

To Whom is the SSCC Columbarium available?

The columbarium shall be used for the cremains of current registered members of the SSCC Parish and their immediate family members.  In addition, we are inviting current members of Holy Rosary and St. Frances Cabrini parishes as of September 30, 2024. 

What do I get when I reserve a niche at the SSCC Columbarium?

A niche reservation allows the right to place the cremated remains of TWO human bodies. Purchasing placement rights in a niche in the columbarium includes: The niche and a polished granite faceplate. The cost for cremation, the urn, and faceplate engraving IS NOT INCLUDED and would be an additional cost at time of inurnment.

Does one own the Niche?

For purposes of CLEAR UNDERSTANDING a niche reservation does not constitute a sale of property but is merely the provision of a burial space. All ownership of the land, columbarium and associated gardens remain with SSCC.

Can one put military emblems or other designs on niche faceplate?

No, all niche faceplates will be of the same format and font – no additional emblems or characters will be allowed. We are however looking into a Military Memorial Wall with the design of the columbarium.

Can any urn be used?

No, only urns purchased from SSCC may be used in the columbarium. The urn may be sent with the body to the crematory for emplacement of the cremains. Once the cremains are enclosed in the urn, a permanent cap is affixed. After the urn is placed in the individual’s reserved niche, the faceplate is reattached and installed after engraving – which will include name of deceased, date of birth and date of death.

Is the Columbarium secure?

Yes, the columbarium will always be kept secured.

Who will administer the activity of the Columbarium?

A Columbarium Board will be formed to oversee all activities regarding the SSCC columbarium. The board will have representation on the Parish Council and report directly to the SSCC Pastor.

What about care and permanency?

In the event that SSCC or the columbarium shall be relocated or ceases to operate, or in the event of the destruction of the columbarium, the Church or extreme damage to the church ground resulting from accident, natural disaster or act of God, the Church shall cause the re-inurnment of the ashes with the relocated facility or the precinct of another Christian Church or Cemetery. If such is not available, the Board shall cause the ashes to be disposed of in accordance with the Catholic doctrine and legal manner.

Have other churches constructed columbaria?

Yes, one example that is close by is Holy Family Catholic Church in Brentwood.

What if I already have plot in a cemetery, but interested in SSCC columbarium?

You can advertise your cemetery plot for sale or donate the plot to the Diocese.

What are the benefits of reserving a niche in advance?

Prearranging your funeral and related expenses, such as purchasing placement rights in a niche at SSCC columbarium, is the best way of ensuring your wishes are honored.

Are there facilities at SSCC available for a reception following the placement service?

Yes, arrangements can be made through the SSCC office.

Whom do I contact to make inquiries?

Questions regarding this initial survey phase of the SSCC columbarium may be made at the information table in the social hall following all Masses, or by email to [email protected].

General information on cremations:

May cremains be mixed with the remains of other individuals, pets, or other objects? No, this practice has never been accepted.

May I scatter the ashes?

No. The practice of scattering the cremains (Ashes) on the sea, from the air, or on the ground, or keeping the cremains in the home of a relative or friend of the deceased, are not the reverent disposition that the Church requires.” (Order of Christian Funerals, Appendix II). The cremains must be buried in a grave or placed in a niche in a columbarium.

Do I need to ask permission to be cremated?

No, but it is a good idea to discuss your reasons with your Pastor, Deacon, or other parish minister. Don’t forget to address your wish to be cremated with your family. Put your directive in the form of a legal document such as a will, living trust or other planning document with your funeral director.

Will There Be a Funeral / Committal Service?

YES, traditional services may continue as usual in the church and may include the committal service at the columbarium.

May the cremains be present for the funeral Mass?

It is preferred that the actual body be present for the funeral Mass. After the Mass, the body may be cremated. If this is not possible, then the cremains should be present. If no remains are present, the funeral Mass prescribed in the ritual is not celebrated. A memorial Mass in this instance is more appropriate.

What happens at the Funeral Mass with cremains?

Significant attention should be given to the primary symbols of the Catholic funeral liturgy, as stated in the Order of Christian Funerals and is commentaries. The Paschal candle and sprinkling with holy water are primary symbols of baptism and should be used during the funeral Mass. During Mass, the cremains should be treated with the same dignity and respect as the body. They are to be sealed in a “worthy vessel”. They may be carried in procession and/or placed on a table here the coffin normally would be with the Paschal candle nearby. The body is always laid to rest with solemnity and dignity. So too, the Order of Christian Funeral provide for the interment of cremains. (Order of Christian Funerals, #428)

How does the actual placement of the cremains in the columbarium work?

No placement of the cremains in the columbarium shall be permitted without an appropriate service. The service will be planned by the Pastor in consultation with the deceased’s family and in accordance with the Diocese of Nashville. Only the Pastor or someone designated by the Pastor may conduct this service.

How are arrangements for cremation and inurnment made?

Arrangements for cremation can be made through a funeral home. The funeral home will assist in coordinating plans with the Church.

How does the cost of cremation and inurnment compare with the cost of a traditional burial? 

The cost of inurnment in a columbarium is typically much less expensive than a traditional burial, depending on the procedures and services selected.