The Christ Church Columbarium provides our loved ones a sacred space on our church grounds for the permanent resting of cremated remains. It stands as a lasting witness to our hope in Christ and the unity of our Christian family. It also offers a beautiful and peaceful setting for family and friends to reflect and pray.
Christ Church Columbarium Frequently Asked Questions
What is a columbarium?
A columbarium is a permanent structure composed of niches, or small compartments, where urns containing the cremated remains of loved ones are placed.
Why does Christ Church have a columbarium?
The Christ Church Columbarium provides our loved ones a sacred space on our church grounds for the permanent resting of cremated remains. It stands as a lasting witness to our hope in Christ and the unity of our Christian family. It also offers a beautiful and peaceful setting for family and friends to reflect and pray.
Where will the columbarium be located?
The Memorial Garden and Columbarium will be constructed on the west side of our property, adjacent to the front parking lot and across the stream.
What does the Bible say about cremation?
The Bible does not explicitly command for or against cremation. The earliest mention appears in 1 Samuel 31, where the bodies of Saul and his sons are burned and their bones buried.
What about God resurrecting our bodies?
Cremation does not hinder God’s promise or power to resurrect. Whether a body has decayed over time or been cremated, God, who formed us from dust, is fully capable of creating a new, glorified body.
How is the Columbarium and Memorial Garden being funded?
This project will be solely funded by the fees charged to those who wish to be inurned in the columbarium. Fees and donations collected will be placed in the Christ Church Columbarium Trust for perpetual care and maintenance.
Does the fee mean I own the niche?
No. Legal ownership of the Columbarium and its niches remains with Christ Church.
What does the one-time fee include?
The $3,500 fee includes:
- A Certificate of Inurnment granting perpetual lease for one niche (suitable for up to two urns)
- Opening of the niche for each inurnment (up to two times)
- Church assistance with the committal service
- Engraved faceplate inscription for each individual
- Perpetual care of the niche and Memorial Garden
Additional openings beyond the two included are $100 per occurrence.
Why did Christ Church choose this particular supplier?
Sunset Memorial & Stone Ltd., a Canadian manufacturer, is known for high-quality craftsmanship. Other quotes we received were for lower-quality imports from China.
What makes a Sunset Columbarium unique?
Sunset columbariums feature a lockable inner door, providing an added layer of security behind the granite faceplate—an option not offered by other manufacturers we contacted.
How was the cost determined?
Our vision for the Memorial Garden is to offer an affordable, dignified, and beautiful option for Christ Church families—a place to honor loved ones and connect to God in nature. The cost was set to reflect these values while ensuring the ministry remains sustainable through an endowment.
How can I obtain a Certificate of Inurnment?
Please contact the church office for an Application for Inurnment. Submit your completed application and full payment to finalize your reservation.