The Columbarium is located adjacent to the Outdoor Chapel
Burial in the churchyard is an ancient tradition living on at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church. The columbarium is a structure designed for the interment of human ashes. It is situated near the outdoor chapel in a beautiful shaded garden area of the church grounds.
The word “columbarium” comes from the Latin word for “dove.” The niches where ashes are interred resemble the niches of a dovecote. The dove is also a symbol of the Holy Spirit, and of peace. A columbarium is a holy place, where the Spirit dwells richly, and where peace surrounds the living and the dead.
Saint Anne’s Columbarium reclaims the respected, historical tradition of churchyard burial. The columbarium is a reminder of the continuity between this life and the life to come. Those interred in the columbarium have their names live on as a witness of their faith in the community of saints, the living and the dead. In addition they remain as part of this parish and part of the community.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalm 23:6
Interment in the St. Anne’s Columbarium is open to all members of St. Anne’s and their families, and others at the discretion of the Rector. All who wish to purchase a niche or niches should fill out an application. It is common practice for individuals or families to reserve niches in advance of death.
St. Anne’s Columbarium is located outdoors, among the trees adjacent to the outdoor chapel. Plans include some simple plantings, and permanent benches, to create a meditation garden. Paved paths will connect the church, outdoor chapel, and columbarium.
Columbarium shortly after installation, May 2010
Contributions toward the establishment of the memorial garden (plantings, benches, paths, etc.) are welcome.
For more information, or to obtain an application for interment in Saint Anne’s Columbarium, contact the church office.