Proposed Expansion of Holy Spirit's Memorial Garden

We are considering expanding the Ameila Mary Garden to include a sacred columbarium, creating a lasting place of prayer, remembrance, and hope within our parish grounds. This addition will provide a reverent and peaceful resting place for the cremated remains of loved ones, honoring life while affirming our belief in the Resurrection. Designed to accommodate the interment of up to 1,000 souls, the columbarium will serve current and future generations of our parish family. Its placement within the Memorial Garden allows families to gather, reflect, and pray in a setting rooted in beauty and faith. This expansion reflects our commitment to accompany our parishioners in all stages of life and beyond. The columbarium will stand as a visible expression of remembrance, community, and the enduring promise of eternal life. 

Please complete the survey below to help us plan accordingly. 

Additionally, for more information about the proposed expansion of the Amelia Mary Garden, we invite you to attend one of the following Town Hall meetings:

• Thursday, January 15: 6:45 PM - 7:45PM (McDonough Hall)
• Sunday, January 18: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (Youth Center)
• Wednesday, January 21: 9:15 AM - 10:15 AM (Malta Hall)

Catholic Church Teaching on Cremation

Cremation has become part of contemporary Catholic practice and is used in about 20% of all funerals. Although cremation is permitted, Catholic teaching continues to stress the preference for burial or entombment of the body of the deceased, done in imitation of the burial of Jesus.

Catholic teaching insists that cremated remains must be given the same respect as the body, including the manner in which they are carried and the attention given to their appropriate transport and placement.

The cremated remains of a body are to be buried or entombed, preferably in a Catholic cemetery.

- from the Archdiocese of Atlanta's website