Columbaria Provide Lasting Memorials for Loved Ones
According to Statista, 56 percent of U.S. residents who passed away in 2020 chose cremation, and that number is estimated to grow to 72 percent by 2030. With many choosing cremation over burial as a final resting place, columbaria have become an affordable, respectful way to memorialize loved ones.
Many churches, cities, and individuals are opting for columbaria — a room, building, or wall designed to store and display urns containing cremated remains. Unlike traditional burial plots, columbaria require minimal land and maintenance, making them an environmentally friendly option.
In Georgetown, First United Methodist Church and First Presbyterian Church have added columbaria to their serene garden spaces, complete with landscaping, walking paths, and seating, giving parishioners a peaceful, reflective setting to pay tribute to loved ones.
PERSONAL TOUCH
One of the benefits of a columbarium is the ability to personalize each niche — the compartment where cremated remains are placed. Families may add engraved plaques with names, dates, and meaningful messages, as well as photographs and mementos to honor the legacies of their loved ones.
Columbaria also come in a variety of sizes to meet different needs. Some families opt for larger columbaria designed to house multiple urns, allowing spouses or entire families to be laid to rest together. In addition, columbaria are available in a range of designs and materials to suit diverse preferences. Durable granite, marble, and glass are popular choices, while eco-friendly options, crafted from recyclable materials, cater to those with sustainability in mind. These versatile structures can be seamlessly incorporated into memorial gardens or installed as freestanding units at churches, cemeteries, or even private properties.