The name "columbarium" is derived from the Latin columba, or "dovecote," the dove being the symbol of God's spirit and peace. The Church historically has laid the dead to rest with reverence and care in special places in churchyards and in cathedrals. Now, in keeping with this tradition, churches have established special facilities for the care and safekeeping of cremated remains in columbaria.

Our columbarium was installed in early 2007, on the west wall of the north transept, and was dedicated soon thereafter. The Vestry has authorized sales of niches to commence. Common questions about columbaria are:

What is a columbarium? Very simply, a columbarium is a burial place for cremated remains. Columbaria are usually vertical structures, typically indoors (as is ours). If outdoors, they resemble a conventional graveyard, with much smaller "plots."

Why should I consider a columbarium? The most common reason is simple economics—a columbarium niche is usually much less expensive than a conventional grave plot.

What is the position of the Church on cremation? Columbaria are relatively new in the United States. In the past, choice of a columbarium instead of a conventional grave plot was often treated with apprehension. In part this had to do with columbaria being "unconventional." It was also often allied to a popular misconception that the choice of a columbarium was "insufficient testimony to our faith in the Resurrection"—that is, essentially, the feeling that our Lord will somehow require our "complete" bodies. This is, of course, not the case, as we all "return to the dust" whether one is in the ground or in a columbarium niche. The Lord will supply believers with new and immortal bodies in the fullness of time. To clarify its position, the Church in the West (Rome) has stated that cremation is perfectly acceptable so long as it is not done as a denial of the Resurrection. That is certainly not the case at S. John's, where inurnment in the columbarium is carried out according to the same rite as for a burial.

What is being offered by S. John's? S. John's is offering to parishioners the opportunity to purchase niches in its columbarium. Niches are offered at a price of $750 for a single niche and $1,500 for a double niche. Niches are also available for sale to nonparishioners, at higher prices. Payment terms can be arranged if the full price is problematic.

What do I do if I am interested or have other questions? Please contact the .