Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth...
Revelation 21:1
Prelude
We walk this earth with people we love. And when they die we honor them with good words, with prayers to God, and with a place of rest. The columbarium at Trinity is a place where we can remember them, pray our prayers, and be reminded that we are surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses.”
The walls of the columbarium will contain the cremated remains of those from our congregation who wish to be buried there. In the following paragraphs you will find the guidelines for thinking about such an alternative.
Philosophy
Cremation is the burning of the body making it ready for burial or scattering. Cremation is an acceptable Christian way to honor the body of a loved one. Different traditions and cultures may prefer other forms of burial, but there is nothing unbiblical about cremation. When the Lord comes to “judge the living and the dead” he will resurrect our bodies to be like his own glorious body.
For Whom
The columbarium at Trinity is available for the burial at the death of any of our members and those of their immediate families (non-member spouse, parent, or child, for example). Others who have been associated with the congregation in some other way will be considered on an individual basis by the Pastor and Executive Committee of the Congregation Council.
Cost
The decision for cremation and a place in the columbarium is a less expensive alternative than most other forms of burial. The actual cremation can be arranged with any funeral home you choose (price range: $500-$1600 as of 1999). The church’s price for a place in the columbarium includes one space (each niche holds two urns), an urn in which to place remains, a granite cover-plate with engraved name and dates, and general upkeep. It is not possible to include any additional words on the granite cover-plates.
You may purchase a place in the columbarium in advance or at the time they are needed. It takes approximately 1-2 weeks to receive the engraved plates for final placement.
Please contact the church office to discuss costs and any other questions you may have.
Trinity Narthex
Stained glass window in the worship sanctuary.