4 Ways to Maintain and Care for a Church Columbarium

Columbariums are sacred final resting places that house the urns of departed loved ones who have chosen to be cremated. The demand for these structures has risen since cremation overtook traditional burial as the more popular end-of-life choice almost a decade ago. At Columbarium Planners, we have spent the last 30 years planning and building columbariums; most of those we have built have been church columbariums. In this article, we’ll discuss four ways that churches and loved ones can maintain and care for their columbariums.

1. Regular Cleaning and Upkeep

One of the most essential ways to maintain a columbarium is to provide consistent cleaning. Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate over time, especially on an outdoor columbarium exposed to the elements. Regularly cleaning the exposed surfaces and surrounding landscape will ensure the area around your columbarium remains poised to welcome grieving loved ones.

2. Preserve the Condition and Visual Appeal

Columbariums can be designed to blend seamlessly with the church’s architecture and landscaping. By keeping the space looking its best, you will honor the sacred nature of the site. While we use materials that stand the test of time in our construction, be sure to inspect occasionally for any damage that needs to be addressed. Also, proper maintenance and care for the surrounding landscaping must be provided.

3. Maintain Privacy and Security

Since a columbarium is a sacred space, you want to provide the privacy and security it deserves. After all, loved ones need to feel confident and comfortable when they visit to pay their respects. Adequate lighting goes a long way to enhancing safety in an outdoor location and boosting the visual appeal. You may also choose to install fencing or gates around the columbarium area as an added security measure.

4. Provide Comfortable Reflection Areas

A columbarium is intended to be a peaceful, inviting atmosphere conducive to reflection and remembrance. Make sure that any benches or seating areas are clean and well-maintained. Keep pathways clear and accessible for visitors to easily navigate around the columbarium. You’ll want them to have a pleasant experience as far as anything within your control is concerned.

Request More Information for Your Church 

Columbarium Planners is ready and available to answer any questions you may have. We invite you to call us at (910) 295-8328 or request information now to learn more about building a columbarium. We are located in North Carolina and build columbariums in the eastern half of the United States, including South Carolina, Virginia, and beyond.