The most important reason for having a columbarium is the comfort, peace, support and witness this facility provides for the members of the church family. The concept of interment in consecrated church property is an old one, dating from the very beginnings of Christianity and is sound for both theological and practical reasons.
For many, the church is a Christian's spiritual home on earth, the place where families in Christ meet to worship God and have fellowship with one another. They become members of the Body of Christ through baptism, are confirmed, married and ultimately enter eternal life with the prayers and remembrances of their congregation. Interment in church property is a recognition of belief in the communion of saints, both living and dead and is a witness to faith in the resurrection to eternal life.
Church interment provides a permanent link between the deceased and their place of worship while enabling their surviving family members, friends and fellow worshipers to pay frequent respects during regular church visits and worship. Another practical consideration is that cremation and inurnment in a columbarium is considerably less expensive than ground burial.
The Laurel Heights family's spiritual home, our sanctuary, will continue to provide a permanent link to the comfort, peace and support found here during one's earthly life.
What is Cremation?
Theologically, cremation is not a modern concept and in no way discounts the Christian understanding of resurrection of the body and life everlasting. It simply speeds the natural process by which the body decomposes in burial. Cremation does not change God's plan for our earthly bodies and cannot equate our love for the deceased.
As far as the Christian faith is concerned, what is important is that the deceased's remains are treated with respect and dignity.
A Christian Funeral: Details what a Christian funeral is and the choices available.
Putting My House in Order: Print out and complete this four-page booklet in order to provide your family with important information about the wishes for your service(s) upon your death.
Open hearts. Open minds. Open Doors. The people of The United Methodist Church®
