The Columbarium

What is a Columbarium?
A Columbarium is a consecrated area reserved for the interment of cremated remains of the deceased. This is done by sealing the ashes in an urn which is placed for safekeeping in a specially designed niche; this is referred to as "inurnment". The name "Columbarium" is from the Latin word columba meaning "dovecote", the dove being the symbol of God's spirit and peace. Cremation has historically been a widely accepted means of burial among most religions and with increased urbanization and ecological awareness, it continues to gain acceptance particularly with the development of aesthetic well-designed Columbaria that provide lasting memorialization.

Why an Interment ("Inurnment") and Columbarium at the Church?
During our lifetime, the Church has been our Spiritual home; hence, it is an appropriate resting place for our remains. In today's perspective, the Columbarium is a modern version of the earlier burial in the church graveyard. In addition to the spiritual reasons, inurnment at First Presbyterian Church Columbarium provides a very cost effective burial arrangement.

Who can be Inurned here?
The 180 spaces will be reserved for past and present Church members. In some instances spaces may also be allocated to non-members who have a relationship to the First Presbyterian Church.

Would there be a Funeral of Committal Service?
Yes, traditional services may continue as usual in the Church and/or funeral home and may include the committal service at the Columbarium.

How will the Niches be marked?
Each niche will provide the person's legal name and dates of birth and death. These will be inscribed in uniform size and font on the face of the bronze plate covering the niche at the time of inurnment.

May I Choose a Particular Niche?
Yes. Niches will be offered on a first come first served basis. The church will also reserve a few niches for discretionary use principally where a price subsidy or outright gift appears appropriate in the judgment of the pastor.

May I Sell or Transfer my Niche?
Because of Church rules regulating Church property ownership, purchasers of niches are technically granted a permanent "use permit" rather than actual ownership. Thus, a "permittee" cannot actually re-sell the niche. The Church does agree to repurchase the niche less any expenses and less an administrative fee of $100.

What about Care and Permanency?
The Columbarium will be perpetually managed by a Church Member, serving on the Endowment Committee and designated with that responsibility.

Future Phases of the Columbarium
When additional niches are required it is contemplated that an additional columbarium cabinet will be installed in the present Columbarium site.

View the cost of a niche.  For additional information about the First Presbyterian Church Columbarium, please email the church office or call (732) 223-4627.