First Presbyterian Church
Las Cruces, NM
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First Presbyterian Church
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A Columbarium
The word columbarium, a structure to receive the cremated remains of persons, comes from the Latin name for a dovecote with its pigeon holes, which a columbarium resembles. As people choose cremation as the way to dispose of their body after death, their families look for an appropriate resting place for the ashes of their deceased members. The church presents an alternative for Christians, offering continuity of place and family. The place where children are baptized, marriages solemnized, and the family worships offers a likely place where those who have passed on may also rest. The practice of burying parishioners in or near the church is evidenced by the many churches with cemeteries in the churchyards of this country. And, of course, many church buildings are the repository of people’s remains, witness the tombs in Westminster Abbey in London, for example.
Is the First Presbyterian Church in Las Cruces a possible site for a columbarium? The congregation may make this choice or reject it. Some members are interested in exploring the possibility. People have several questions about this use of the church.
One of the first questions posed is where would it be located. Our church is blessed with a large campus that offers many potential sites—inside and outside the church buildings. Possibilities range from a specially designed cabinet near the sanctuary to a designated area in the church grounds.
What would it cost? The cost could be borne by those who choose to use it. The cost to an individual would be less than the purchase of a burial plot in a cemetery.
What would it look like? What are the legal ramifications? What happens if the congregation disbands or moves? Are there theological considerations we should consider? What provisions should regulate the use of the space?
Many people have made arrangements for the disposition of their remains upon their death. Some would like the church to be one of these options and are interested in having the question settled so that they have peace of mind as their end of life nears.
Several members of the church have, for a number of years, investigated columbaria in our community and in other churches. At present they are operating as a sub-committee of the Building and Grounds Team with Jean Rhodes as chair. They are willing to talk to people about this. Please engage in this conversation.
One can start by reading the article in the June Lantern, fill out the brief questionnaire there (or here), and return it to the church.
One of the purposes of this section of our web site is to help find the answers to these questions and to increase the availability of information and discussion on this subject. This section will grow and change as people respond to this idea.
Questions and topics include