The Bethel Columbarium Association

Cremation as an Alternative

Cremation provides a simple, dignified and less expensive alternative to full-body interment. The practice dates back to ancient times. Cremation purifies the remains as a protective health measure. It greatly reduces space needed for burial, conserving our land.

No form of interment thwarts the Resurrection. The power to resurrect is in the hands of God, not in the burial formula of humans.

"I am the resurrection and I am the life."

Churchyard Burial, An Ancient Tradition

We come to Bethel Lutheran for worship, fellowship, Baptism, Confirmation and Marriage. We also celebrate the completion of our earthly life using a Memorial Garden as a place of special memories.

From ancient to modem times, from the crypts of the cathedrals of Europe to the parish cemeteries of America, the church has always cared for the dead and kept them close, within earshot of the promises of God.

Cremation has become more common as a form of final disposition. With that in mind, Bethel Lutheran Church designated a portion of the church grounds for use as a Columbarium. It is maintained within the boundaries of our Memorial Garden for the interment of cremated human remains. The Columbarium is a place of beauty. a quiet place of rest for all the saints, enfolded in the daily presence of the living family of God.

Within the Memorial Garden, a few steps away from the Sanctuary, the walk to the interment site is one of impressive dignity, enabling the service to proceed to committal without interruption. There will be no need for a funeral cortege which may leave behind friends who are unable to go to a remote cemetery.

"I am the door"

Bethel Lutheran Church Memorial Garden

Bethel Lutheran Church Memorial Garden, Located on the north side of the church building, consists of a memorial flower bed, facing an arc of granite covered crypts. The crypts accommodate urns containing cremated remains. Each crypt provides for interment of one or two urns for family use. A common crypt for remains is also available.

The crypts are directed and controlled by the Bethel Columbarium Association. This Association is tied to Bethel Lutheran Church by its membership. The Association Bylaws were initially reviewed and approved by the Bethel Lutheran Church Council, however it is held separately from the Congregation.

The Association Board of Directors maintains a trust fund for the perpetual care of the Columbarium.

The proceeds of crypt sales are used for ongoing supplies, maintenance of the site, and possible future expansion.

Membership. Membership is Available to individuals who are, or have been members of Bethel Lutheran Church, and whose contribution to the Bethel Colurnbarium Association has been approved by the Association Board of Directors. A spouse, children of a members household, or parents of a member may also qualify.

Crypt Purchases

Individual Crypt: A crypt for one individual may be purchased for $700. The price includes interment and an engraved identification plate.

Family Crypt: A crypt for two family members may be purchased for $800. The price includes interment and two engraved identification plates. A family crypt holds a maximum of two remains.

Common Crypt: A common crypt is provided for the interment of loose ashes. The price for individual access to the common crypt is $150. The price includes interment and an identification plate.

Term Payment. Terms are available for crypt purchase. A $200 minimum at the time of application, with the balance due within 6 months. Full membership status will be conveyed upon completion of the unit payment.

"I am the light of the world"

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Marty Essigmann

Arthur Boisselle

Thomas Meador

John Sorenson

Sally Babcock

Gary Schoon

Jeff Courtright