Columbarium
From earliest times, people have been concerned about their final earthly resting place, especially that it be near the gathering place of their families so that each person can be held in affection & perpetual remembrance. In early Christian times, preferred burial space was within the church itself where the faithful gathered for a memorial service.
When space within the church was no longer available, the church-yard cemetery developed. Only in recent times have burial grounds, far removed from the centers of life and prayer, been used.
Both in ancient and in Christian times, the dual tradition of burial and of cremation was preserved. More recently, consideration of the spiritual and the practical aspects of cremation and inurnment within the church itself have led to a revival of this aspect of the tradition.
The name Columbarium is derived from the Latin Columba or “dove”, the symbol of God’s spirit and peace. A Columbarium is a vault with recessed metal compartments of niches for the placement of the earthly remains after cremation. Each metal niche is enclosed with a protective front of bronze, to which is attached a metal identification plate for the deceased’s name, and the dates of birth and death.
There is perhaps no more fitting place for our church members, who learned of God’s love through the fellowship and service of our church, to be laid to rest than in our church’s Columbarium knowing they will be cared for in perpetuity. This will truly be a beautiful place dedicated to the glory of God.
For more information on securing space in the Columbarium, please contact the church office.
Maxwell – Mt. Eden Cemetery
First Presbyterian Church owns the historic Maxwell – Mt. Eden Cemetery on Watertower Rd. in Bentonville through the combining congregations of our church throughout our history.
Take a few moments some time to visit the cemetery and view the history it represents. There are volunteer opportunities to join in the effort to improve this historic cemetery.