62 Manchaug St.
Douglas, MA 01516
Nancy Norberg
508.476.2002
“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”
- Philippians 3:20-21
Ever since the sacred body of Jesus Christ was reverently laid in a tomb, the Catholic Church has respected the profound goodness and loving mercy derived from the interment/entombment of the deceased. The Catholic Church has always taught that burial of the deceased is a Corporal Work of Mercy; seeing it necessary to dedicate solemnly, consecrated ground for this holy purpose. Catholic Cemeteries serve this purpose of burying the faithful departed, as to bear witness to Christ and to await the resurrection of the body into life everlasting.
Many people wonder what makes a Catholic cemetery different from any other cemetery. In short, Catholic cemetery grounds are consecrated. These sacred grounds are an extension of the Catholic Church. They ensure that those who are together in life are kept together in death.
Catholic cemeteries are reverent and prayerful places. They are adorned with special Christian symbols, monuments, and structures that make visitation a holy and serene experience. Choosing to be buried in a Catholic cemetery is a way of remaining surrounded by the faith and members of the Church even in death. Just like the other sacraments we receive throughout our life, such as baptism, first communion, and marriage, God is calling to be present with us at the completion of our life’s journey.
Most importantly, Catholic cemeteries are reminders of the promise of the resurrection. We hear about this promise in the Gospel of John:
“I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me will never die.” – John 11:25-26
As Catholics, we know that death is not the final destination. Instead, death is a transition to an even greater awakening that can only be realized in the presence of God.
Catholic Cemeteries Association