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Thank you for considering our Columbarium at St. John Neumann.
We are committed to providing a reverent and sacred resting place for the cremated remains of loved ones. A columbarium is a consecrated space designed for the respectful housing of cremated remains.
It serves as a modern expression of the traditional church cemetery, reminding us that the Church ministers to the spiritual needs of its members—from baptism, through life, and into eternal rest.
“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more; neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
— Revelation 21: 4
The word “columbarium” comes from Latin and means a compartmentalized house for doves—gentle birds mentioned in Sacred Scripture and recognized as symbols of peace.
The presence of a columbarium is a witness to our faith in the Resurrection, the promise of everlasting life, and the Church Triumphant. It offers an appropriate resting place for the earthly remains of those who, in life, loved the Church.
While this form of burial may not be chosen by everyone, the meditative garden and beauty of the structure are a gift to all. The setting provides a peaceful place for visitation, reflection, prayer, and remembrance.
Understanding Cremation in the Catholic Church
“For if we have been united with Him in a death like His, we shall certainly be united with Him in a resurrection like His.”
— Romans 6:5
The Catholic Church permits cremation, provided it is not chosen for reasons contrary to Christian belief.
The cremated remains of the body, which are to be treated with the same dignity and respect as the body itself, must be reverently laid to rest. This may be done through burial in a cemetery, entombment in a columbarium or mausoleum, or burial at sea in a worthy container. Cremated remains are not to be scattered.
When cremation is chosen, one of the following options may be selected:
Funeral Liturgy in the presence of the Cremated Remains
The Holy See authorized the bishops of the United States to allow the celebration of a Funeral Liturgy in the presence of the cremated remains of the human body. The cremated remains of the body are to be treated with the same respect given to the human body. Prior to the Funeral Mass or as part of the entrance procession of the Mass, a worthy vessel, containing the cremated remains, is carried with reverence into the church. The cremated remains are placed on a suitable stand or table in the place normally occupied by the coffin. The Funeral Mass begins with the sprinkling of holy water; however, a pall is not placed over the cremated remains. The Funeral Mass and the Rite of Commendation are then celebrated in the usual way.
Cremation and Committal prior to the Funeral Liturgy
When the body is cremated and committed soon after death, the rites of Final Commendation and Committal are used at the appropriate time, even though occurring prior to the Funeral Liturgy. Following the Committal, the family and friends of the deceased join the community in celebrating the Funeral Liturgy in the usual way. After the Communion, the blessing is given and the people are dismissed. This method is discouraged, and used only when no other options are possible due to extreme circumstances.
Cremation after the Funeral Liturgy
Even when cremation is chosen, the Church recommends that the body of the deceased be present for the Funeral Rites. The presence of the human body better expresses the values that the Church affirms in the Funeral Rites. After the Funeral Liturgy, the body is cremated and a private commendation is celebrated at the final place of committal. This is the preferred celebration method.
If you have additional questions or concerns please contact the church.
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