OLOL has received conditional approval from the office of the Bishop to develop the design and parish policy for a Prayer Garden and Columbarium on the grounds at OLOL. This will be a respectfully designed outdoor structure/ wall with niches where urns containing the remains of loved ones are sacredly stored. If you would like to be a part of this committee or would like more info, please contact Mary Lou Hale 615-417-9212.
What is a Columbarium?
A Columbarium is a wall consisting of niches, each holding the cremated remains of up to two people. All Catholics will be eligible to apply for a niche subject to the OLOL policy.
What is the current status of the Prayer Garden & Columbarium?
In a 2023 survey of the parish community, 77% of respondents confirmed their support for the development of a columbarium.
- We need to sell approximately 250 niches in the pre-sale period to enable the project to begin.
- OLOL will have a 1-year period to conduct pre-sales of niches for the Prayer Garden and Columbarium.
- Niche pre-sales must fully fund 100% of the construction costs in addition to a $100,000 Permanent Care Trust Fund.
- Should pre-sale targets not be met within one year, all sale deposits will be fully refunded.
- We will hold a series of informational meetings to provide more details and answer questions.
Where will the Prayer Garden & Columbarium be located?
The Prayer Garden and Columbarium will be located in the area outside of the Adoration chapel and the fountain with the Marian statue.
What is the Catholic teaching on cremation?
“The church permits cremation, provided that it does not demonstrate denial of faith in the resurrection of the body.” Catechism of the Catholic Church, (¶ 2301)
What is our Mission?
The mission of the OLOL Prayer Garden & Columbarium is to provide a beautiful and dignified resting place for parish family members and a sacred setting where all can pray in faith, hope and comfort.