A Sacred Place of Rest and Remembrance
A columbarium is a permanent resting place for cremated remains (also called cremains). The word comes from the Latin columba, meaning “a nesting place for doves.” For Christians, places of burial are sacred spaces. They are places where the departed are honored and remembered, where families and loved ones may gather for prayer, reflection, and peace.
St. Luke’s offers a beautiful outdoor Columbarium and Memorial Garden, thoughtfully designed to provide a serene setting for remembrance within our church grounds.
About the Columbarium & Garden
Our all-granite columbarium is a substantial, permanent structure weighing approximately three tons. It includes:
- 48 total niches
- 24 niches on each side
- Each niche measures approximately 12” x 12”
- Each niche can accommodate one or two urns
Each niche has a granite face designed to receive appropriate engraving and provides a dignified, lasting resting place for cremated remains.
The columbarium is located within a 30’ x 40’ Memorial Garden, designed as a place of quiet beauty and contemplation. The garden features:
- Euonymus bushes, an English Oak, an Autumn Blaze Red Maple, roses, and many other beautiful plants that are upkept by St. Luke’s year-round
- Stone benches for sitting and reflection
- Proximity to the church labyrinth (located on the south side)
The garden is intentionally planted to shield views from the north and east, with a south-side entrance that offers a sense of solitude, prayer, and undistracted time to remember family and friends who have died.
St. Luke’s is situated on a two-acre campus with more than 1,000 plants, all hand-cared-for by dedicated groundskeepers.
Purchasing a Niche
Interment in the St. Luke’s Columbarium is open to:
- Participating members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
- Members of their families
- Friends of church families
- Individuals and families who live in the vicinity of the church
Membership at St. Luke’s is not required.
Cost of a Niche: $1,200
Each niche may hold one or two urns.
The niche door is provided by St. Luke’s; however, engraving is a separate expense and is the responsibility of the purchaser.
Recommended engraver:
Affordable Family Memorials
503-515-7640
Interment Services
At the request of the family, the rector of St. Luke’s may preside at the time of interment and conduct the service according to the Book of Common Prayer.
Purchasing & Next Steps
If you are interested in purchasing a niche or would like more information, we invite you to contact the church office. We are happy to answer questions, discuss availability, and walk with you through the process.
