Your Questions Answered: The Columbarium
Have you been wondering what’s happening with the Columbarium? Inquiring minds want to know….
What will it look like?
As we’re using the same vendor, the face plates will be the same as before! And the largest section will have the same cross with brass ring.
Will there be more spaces?
Yes! 60 more niches will be available in addition to those unsold before the fire.
What about the cost for a new niche?
That’s a good question…the answer will have to wait until after the amounts for shipping and other expenses are known.
Are there any additional costs to me if I bought a niche or niches before the fire?
No; you bought in good faith.
When will the loved ones return?
Hmmmm…another good question! I’ll certainly let you know when that date is confirmed. There are plans for a service when they are back home and settled in.
What if my loved one passed away after the fire and I need to buy a niche?
Please let me know when we can meet and pick out a niche. There will also need to be a Committal Service to place them in the Columbarium, and that needs to be arranged with either Fr. Bryan or Mother Trish.
Where in the Chapel will the Columbarium be?
The Columbarium will surround the Chapel. The largest section will be on the north wall (pictured above); then there will be four smaller sections. There will be one on each side of the Holy Family window (middle of this picture), and then one on each side of the door to the Memorial Garden (right-hand side of the picture), where the organ used to be.
What if I want to see where my niche will be or change where my niche is?
Please give me a call at the office, and we can look together at the map. After July15, I need to send a map of the Columbarium to the vendor as they are engraving the lids and cannisters for the unoccupied niches.
Who will shepherd the Columbarium after I retire?
At this time, that’s still under consideration. Please know that I plan to take care of the Columbarium until all of the loved ones have returned.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Caring for your loved ones has truly been an honor, and it will be a great day when they are home again.
Faithfully yours,
Becky Williams. RN, B.S.N.
bwilliams@stlukesbr.org