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Why a Catholic cemetery?
All cemeteries are not created equal. For a Catholic, burial in a Catholic cemetery is a final act of faith, a public witness to one’s membership in a community of faith, to one’s belief in the resurrection of the body and everlasting life. The Catholic cemetery is a sacred place set aside by the Church for the burial of the faithful. The bodies of those buried there rest under the watchful eye of the local Bishop until the last day. The Catholic cemetery is an extension of the parish community where those who have worshipped together in life now rest together in peace, awaiting Christ’s return in glory.
What’s the difference between a Catholic cemetery and a public cemetery?
The Catholic cemetery is a sacred place set aside by the Church for burial of the Faithful. Those buried there share a common belief in the sacredness of the body and the resurrection of the dead. The Catholic cemetery reflects the Church’s teachings and traditions.
Are Catholic cemeteries run for a profit?
No. Unlike most public cemeteries that are often part of large, for-profit corporations, The Catholic Cemeteries Association is a not-for-profit organization. All of the surplus generated by operations is re-invested in the cemeteries for perpetual care, maintenance, and development of new Catholic cemeteries for the future.
Are Catholics permitted to be cremated?
Yes. Catholics may be cremated, as long as doing so does not reflect a denial of the Church’s teaching on the resurrection of the body or a denial of the Church’s teaching on the resurrection of the body. However the Church continues to view burial of the body as preferable.
Do Catholic cemeteries have mausoleums?
Yes. Many of the diocesan cemeteries have mausoleums for those who prefer above-ground entombment. Other options include garden crypts, lawn crypts and traditional in-ground burial.
My spouse isn’t a Catholic. Does that mean being buried in a Catholic cemetery is out of the question?
Not at all. Non-Catholic spouses or relatives of Catholics who purchase the right of burial in a Catholic cemetery may also be buried there. We believe that those who were together in life should remain together in death.
What is the right time to consider making final arrangements?
Now, while you are able to make such decisions in a calm manner and when the cost of burial arrangements is more affordable.
Can I get space for the rest of my family?
Yes. You can purchase as much, or as little, burial space as needed for your family, and you may designate in writing those for whom the burial space has been reserved.
Is financing available?
Yes. The Catholic Cemeteries Association provides a range of financing options, including a three-year, interest-free program.
Aren’t many of our diocesan cemeteries full?
No! All of the diocesan cemeteries have space available. And we continue to develop new cemeteries for the future.
What about maintenance and perpetual care?
The Catholic Cemeteries Association is dedicated to the perpetual care and maintenance of the diocesan cemetery properties.
I’m not exactly a saint; may I be buried in a Catholic cemetery?
Absolutely! The Catholic cemetery is for all baptized Catholics and their families, saints and sinners alike, who have experienced the great mercy of God in this life and upon entrance into the next.
I’ve already made arrangements at a public cemetery.
What can I do?
Usually, burial space in other cemeteries can be re-sold, either directly by the purchaser or by having the cemetery re-sell the plot or crypt.
What if leave the area after I’ve purchased in a Catholic cemetery?
The Catholic Cemeteries Association has a relocation benefit which entitles you to a refund, minus a small transfer fee. The CCA also participates in a National Catholic Cemetery Relocation Program. We can locate the Catholic Cemetery nearest your new home and transfer your burial rights at no cost to you.
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