Columbarium at Calvary Cemetery, Anoka, MN

Due to the increased demand for cremation, St. Stephen’s Catholic Church installed a Columbarium to Calvary Cemetery in Anoka, MN. The main center cross stucture was completed in 2015 and the four wing structures were completed in 2018.

Calvary Cemetery’s columbarium, constructed of granite, offers options for a single niche (for one urn containing the cremated remains of one person) or a double niche (for two urns, each containing the cremated remains of a person).

Projections indicate that more than 70 percent or more Minnesotans will be choosing cremation by the year 2030.

Visit Calvary Cemetery off West Highway 10 and Thurston Avenue in Anoka.

What is a Columbarium?

A columbarium is a permanent structure made up of spaces or niches where family members can place urns containing the ashes (or cremated remains) of cremated loved ones. The word “columbarium” is derived from the Latin term “columba,” meaning “dwelling place of a dove.” The dove, of course, has long symbolized in Christian tradition the embodiment of the Holy Spirit.

Cremation and the Catholic Faith

Since the Vatican lifted the cremation ban in 1963, today it is not only allowed, but growing in popularity among the faithful.  The full funeral liturgy with the body present is preferred by the Church. However, the Order of Christian Funerals can be celebrated in the presence of the cremated remains.  Cremated remains are given the same respect as remains in a casket.  The Church requires that the deceased body be treated with prayerful reverence and great dignity in recognition of its glorious future.

Location/Design

The beautiful new columbarium is conveniently located on the east side of Calvary Cemetery.

The columbarium is constructed of granite. At the top of the center “Cross” building is a bronze crucifix designed and imported from Italy. Each of the four wing buildings gives witness to the Evangelists of our faith. The wing buildings are named “Matthew,” “Mark,” “Luke,” and “John,” and feature an engraving of the saint with a scripture passage.

A brass plaque for each niche provides a dignified means of memorializing the deceased with an inscription of their name and years of birth and death.

A patio and benches give family and friends an opportunity to reflect on precious memories of loved ones.

For more information or a brochure, please contact the parish office at 763-421-2471.

Calvary Cemetery Benefits of a Columbarium Burial

• The columbarium structure makes it easy to locate loved ones at the cemetery, especially during the winter.  Patio and benches are located at the columbarium for year-round visitation.
• Cremation funeral home costs are less expensive than a traditional burial costs.
• Advanced planning eliminates guesswork and financial burdens for your family and loved ones.

Maintenance and Care

• The Church intends to maintain the columbarium in a tasteful, clean, and dignified state befitting the sanctity and purpose of the columbarium. The affixing of any decorative items or additional memorial items to the Niches, planting areas, or any exterior surface of the columbarium building will not be allowed.