"Father of all, we pray to you....
for all those whom we love but
see no longer. Grant to them
eternal rest. Let light perpetual
shine upon them."
-Burial of the Dead, Rite II
St. Mark's Parish Church Memorial Garden is a simple, dignified space for the committal of cremated remains directly into the earth.
Memorial Garden Policy Statement
The St. Mark's Parish Church Memorial Garden is intended to be a simple, dignified meditation garden with plantings and benches, set aside as a place where the cremated remains of those who have died may be committed directly into the earth, where people may gather for reflection, prayer or meditation, and where the parish community may gather together or host occasions for fellowship or celebration.
Interment shall be officiated by the Rector of St. Mark's Parish Church or a person appointed by the Rector. The committal rite shall be according to the Book of Common Prayer or as directed by the Rector. no containers or objects other than the cremated remains may be committed in the Garden.
At the request of the deceased's family or designated principals a nameplate may be purchased at cost, and may be affixed to a memorial plaque. St. Mark's Parish Church shall keep accurate records of all committals in the Garden.
Reservation and/or committal allows only for the privilege of use of the space and does not create or transfer real property rights. The Church has sole right to the Memorial Garden and property, and shall be responsible for opening and closing the site.
Any contribution for committal will be placed in the Memorial Garden Fund and shall be used for maintenance and enhancement of the Garden, at the discretion of the Vestry.
The bereaved may place single cut flowers on the site of committal; however, no flags, emblems, monuments, plaques, headstones, plants, floral arrangements or bouquets, or other objects may be placed on or near the site of committal or in the Garden, and will be immediately removed by the Church if so placed. The Church reserves the right to clear the garden of allowable floral offerings from time to time, at its discretion. Those wishing to have an additional memorial acknowledgment may seek suggestions and guidance from the Vestry of St. Mark's Parish Church.
The remains of any person may be committed in the Garden, regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, or religious belief or absence thereof.
The Rector, Wardens and Vestry of St. Mark's Parish Church have full rights and responsibilities concerning the Memorial Garden. Any issue not covered in this Policy Statement shall be determined solely by that body. The Rector, Wardens and Vestry of St. Mark's reserve the right to change Memorial Garden policies from time to time, at their sole discretion.
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