Columbarium

The word Columbarium is a derivative from a Latin word for “Dovecote.” The dove is a Christian symbol for God’s Spirit and Peace and a fitting symbol for a final resting place. Within the context of the church, columbarium refers to a burial vault containing niches for the cremated remains of the deceased. Since its inception, the Christian faith has focused upon the soul of the departed at the time of death; however, the body remaining behind has always been treated with respect and reverence.

The tradition has long existed to have the church yard or church building become the place of burial. This practice is in keeping with the womb to tomb ministry of the church and provides a connection to the place of worship and service during the lifetime of the deceased. Today the cemetery frequently replaces this old custom and yet the cemetery is often miles from the church with no particular connection to the individual or his or her church.

The Columbarium permits the family of the departed to feel a sense of conservation of land and resources while maintaining a bond close to the faith that played such an important role in comforting them in the midst of sorrow and grief. The church will continue to be a shelter and a home bonding us in life and death to the Source and Resource of our life and faith. “They who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.” (Isaiah 40:31)

“They who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:31

First United Methodist Church

227 Fulton St E Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 451.2879

www.GrandRapidsFUMC.org revised 07/29/14

First United Methodist Church

What is a Columbarium?

Columbarium

Why a Columbarium?

Our pastors report that more than half of our church members are now requesting cremation instead of burial after death. The columbarium at FUMC allows the inurnment of remains at the faith home of the deceased, and the site of the chapel provides a contemplative and peaceful place for remembrance and reflection.

Who is Eligible for Inurnment in our Columbarium?

All present and former members of First United Methodist Church, their spouse/partners, immediate family members who have had a connection with FUMC, and persons who may not have been members but were long-time attendees of FUMC, are eligible to be placed in the Columbarium. Exceptions to these guidelines will be handled by the Columbarium Committee.

What is the Price of a Niche?

The cost is $750 for an individual niche; $1000 per niche for couples. (Each niche may hold the cremations of up to two people.)

This will include placement fees, engraving and mounting of a nameplate, and perpetual care. There will be no assessments or future charges after the purchase price has been made. Contact the church office for information on installment payments. Funding for the Columbarium is separate from the general budget of the church.

What Type of Container is Required?

The church has containers which may be used in the event the family does not wish to purchase their own. In the event that a family wishes to choose their own container, dimensions shall not exceed 11 ½ x 11 ½ x 10 inches. The Columbarium Committee will have final approval of any container.

Are the Niches Transferable?

Should a purchaser of a niche want to dispose of their selected niche prior to cremains being inurned, the purchaser will be reimbursed the original cost minus $200.00. Transfer of any niche space can be executed only through the First United Methodist Church Trustees. Niches may not be transferred or sold to a private party.

May a Container be Removed?

The Trustees will grant permission for cremains to be removed from the church only if the request is made by a legal heir of the deceased. Should the heir of the deceased choose to remove cremains to an alternative location, the family of the purchaser will be reimbursed 50% of the cost and the vacated niche space will remain the property of FUMC.

Is There a Limit on How Long a Purchased Niche Remains Unused?

In the event that the niche remains unused 50 years after purchase, or within three years after the death of the original applicant, (whichever event occurs last), then the niche shall revert to First United Methodist Church, unless an exception is made by the Trustees.

How May I Reserve a Niche in the First United Methodist Church Columbarium?

Contact the church office to select a niche and fill out the agreement forms.

You may obtain more information on the Columbarium from the church administor or one of the pastors.