Catholics & Cremation
Who can be buried in a Catholic cemetery?
Catholics, whether active or inactive, and members of Catholic families from other religious affiliations. In the spirit of Christian unity members of Christian denominations without similar facilities of their own may also be buried in Catholic cemeteries, provided they abide by all cemetery regulations.
What are the rules governing the placement of flowers and decorations on graves?
Fresh cut flowers in appropriate self-supporting green cone vases may be placed at any time. They will be removed when they become unsightly. Winter decorations may be placed after November 1st and will be removed after February 1st. During the grass cutting season from April 1st through October 31st potted plants and artificial flowers are only permitted three days before and one week after Easter, Mothers Day, Memorial Day, and Fathers Day. The clean up dates are clearly posted at the entrances of Cathedral and All Saints Cemeteries. When placing decorations please place them close to the memorial so that no one trips on them. The cemetery is not responsible for lost decorations. No planting or planter boxes are permitted.
What are the rules governing the decoration of the community crypt spaces?
Decorations are limited to the vase supplied by the cemetery. Decorations should not infringe on adjacent crypts. The use of artificial flowers is encouraged in interior crypt areas because fresh cut flowers deteriorate and the water for these flowers turns rancid quickly. In April of each year a general inspection of all artificial crypt arrangements is conducted. Those arrangements that have deteriorated or are not appropriate to the season are removed. The cemetery is not responsible for items lost or removed. No decorations may be placed on the floor.
What are the rules regarding memorials?
All memorials will have a Roman Cross or other Catholic symbol as the most prominent feature of any design. The use of secular imagery, nicknames, and personal quotes are subject to review and approval of the cemetery superintendent.
In lawn monument areas all memorials must be level with the ground. The maximum size for a single adult grave marker is 28′ long by 18′ wide. For two graves side by side the maximum size marker is 48′ long by 18′ wide. Granite and bronze are both permitted. For cremains areas the maximum size single marker is 1′ by 1′. On baby graves the maximum size marker is 18′ long by 10′ wide.
On areas that allow upright monuments the maximum base size is 65% of the lot width not to exceed 5′ in length. The maximum overall height is 4′. Free standing statues, urns, and crosses are prohibited.
Burial Traditions
Until the middle of the twentieth century, the only method of burial available was to be interred in the ground. The traditional churchyards and older cemeteries with a vast array of upright monuments were the norm. Subsequent to World War II, modern cemetery development, operations and management techniques were instituted throughout the country. Families now have several options available for their consideration.
One option is the memorial park. In this setting, all memorials for the burials are lawn level. Landscaping and centrally placed religiously or historically significant statues adorn the cemetery sections. This provides open vistas and a serene setting. Cemeteries in the area that utilize this concept are All Saints Catholic Cemetery at 6001 Kirkwood Highway midway between Wilmington and Newark and Gracelawn Memorial Park located on the DuPont Highway in New Castle.
Another option is entombment in a community mausoleum. Historically above ground entombment in a crypt was an option reserved for the wealthy and prominent. Modern construction materials and techniques have now made it a cost-effective option for all. In an age when available ground is limited, burial in modern crypts provides a dignified and environmentally sound alternative to in-ground burial.
A modern crypt is an above-ground burial space for one or two people. It is separate from other crypts, sealed and environmentally controlled. Each individual crypt, engraved with the names of the deceased, adds to the significance of the entire area. Because above-ground burial eliminates the need to purchase an outer burial vault or memorial, it is often comparable in cost to traditional in-ground burial.
Cathedral Cemetery located at 2400 Lancaster Avenue midway between Hockessin and Downtown Wilmington was the first cemetery in the area to build a community mausoleum. The first phase of the Queen of the Apostles Crypt was built in 1963. From that time until present day various interior and garden areas have been added. Presently there is a large availability in the beautifully appointed Queen of the Apostle Chapel and surrounding garden areas. There are also small crypts, called niches that are specifically designed for the entombment of urns that hold cremated remains.
All Saints Cemetery also has substantial availability of crypt and niche space in the Rosary and Way of the Cross Garden Crypts. These mausoleums are beautifully constructed using design and materials that enhance the scenic atmosphere of this religiously significant and well-maintained cemetery.
Gate of Heaven Cemetery has availability of individual and companion crypt and niche space in the Pieta Garden Mausoleum.
Pre-need planning of your cemetery arrangements is another option offered. Selection of your cemetery accommodations prior to need brings both peace of mind and financial protection. It lessens hardship on your loved ones at a time of sorrow and confusion. By planning ahead you can make your decision in a relaxed and thoughtful manner. Not only does it help you make the best choices, but payment plans can also be made to suit your personal budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do when a loved one is sick and is dying?
- Contact the office of the loved one’s parish church and ask to speak to a priest.
- If you use Hospice they will often contact the parish and request the sacraments for the sick and dying.
- Don’t wait until death is imminent before contacting the parish priest. Parish priests are most interested in being there for a family in the time of final illness, death and grief.
What do I do when a loved one dies?
- Contact a local funeral home of your choice. He/she will establish initial contact with the parish church.
- The priest, parish liturgy committee or bereavement committee will assist a family in making appropriate liturgical arrangements such as scripture readings, lector for the readings and musical selections.
- Contact Catholic Cemeteries to set up a pre-interment meeting.
What is the proper rite of Christian burial?
- Viewing at the funeral home or parish church
- Mass of Christian Burial at the deceased’s parish church
- Committal services at the cemetery (For Catholics burial in the sacred ground of a Catholic cemetery is the preferred place of burial).
What are the options for a viewing?
You can schedule a viewing the evening before the burial and/or an hour or so before the Mass of Christian Burial. The viewing is usually held in a funeral home, however, in many instances the parish priest may authorize viewing in the parish church especially if there is a separate area of the church available for such use.
Why have a viewing?
It provides a sense of closure and allows family members who were not present at the time of death a time to express their last farewell. It also allows extended family and friends an opportunity to express their support and condolences.