A columbarium is a place to inter the cremated remains of individuals, much like a burial plot is used to inter non-cremated remains. Many people today are turning to cremation as an alternative to a full burial, and in recent years interment at a cemetery in a columbarium is becoming more common.
Our columbarium now consists of six granite units with 240 niches in total; ten walls of 24 niches each. The area has been enhanced with appropriate landscaping, providing space for prayer and reflection. Only one urn with cremated human remains is permitted within each niche. The door of the niche will be engraved by Ketterhagen Memorials in a standard style and font. An engraved military emblem is available for veterans.
Acquisition of columbarium niches is open to members of any faith. Non-parishioners are always welcome. Parishioner rates apply to members of St. Thomas Aquinas and St. Clare. The cost of the new walls increased significantly, so niches in the new walls (F-J) have a higher price than the initial set.
Ketterhagen Memorials (beginning 7/15/2022)
Engraving: $275
Opening & sealing niche | Weekday: $100 | Weekend: $150
US Military Veterans may have a special plate honoring their service.
All prices are current as of October 2023 and may change without notice. Parishioner rates apply to members of St. Thomas and St. Clare.
Niche Purchase Inquiries
Contact Terry Ritchey at the Parish Office at 262-534-2255 or e-mail her at terry@tritchey.com
What does the Church teach about cremation?
In 1963 the Vatican’s Holy Office lifted the ban forbidding Catholics from choosing cremation. This permission was incorporated into the revised Canon Law of 1983 as well as in the Order of Christian funerals.
The following statement from the Congregation of Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments clearly indicates the position of the Church on the matter of cremation:
The cremated remains of a body should be treated with the same respect given to the human body from which they come. This includes the use of a worthy vessel to contain the ashes, the manner in which they are carried, the care and attention to appropriate placement and transport, and the final disposition.
The cremated remains should be buried in a grave or entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium. The practice of scattering cremated remains on the sea, from the air, or on the ground… are not the reverent disposition that the Church requires. Division or storage of cremated remains are also discouraged.
*Columbarium is the singular term. Columbaria is the plural term.
COLUMBARIUM LAYOUT
Wall A
Wall B
Wall C
Wall D
Wall E
Wall F
Wall G
Wall H
Wall I
Wall J