Traditional Catholic doctrine requires that human remains be buried in consecrated ground, that is, blessed by a priest and deemed an appropriate final resting place by the Church.  This applies to both intact and cremated remains.  Catholics do not have the option of having their ashes spread in their favorite place or kept in an urn by family members.

The following rules and guidelines that may be of interest to you:

Interment/Disinterment

• The permit is required (obtained from Funeral home).

  • The state requires the Funeral Director to be present at the cemetery during the process.

• Excavation personnel (person responsible for the excavation of dirt) is only responsible for the dirt.  He is not responsible for moving rocks, brick edging, or any personal items if they are in the way of a new burial.

• Family pets cannot be buried with loved ones.

• Cremains cannot be placed in the casket of a loved one.

Responsibility of the Cemetery

• Any damage caused by a natural disaster, or duration of time, is not the responsibility of the Good Shepherd Parish.
• Our landscaper is responsible for the grounds, cutting grass and cleaning sidewalks for snow.
• Every November you will receive a letter from our Priest along with envelopes for maintenance fees.

• All burials POC (Point of Contact- responsible party for the plot) must have a deed or paperwork indicating that they are the legal Executor or Administrator of Estate.
• The living owner may indicate a change of POC to descendants by notarized letter.
• Transfers of a deed (Change of name, ownership) cost $100.00.

• Proof of lineage is required (birth certificate of self, parents, and grandparents if necessary.)
• Letters forfeiting rights or establishing ownership are required from every remaining living sibling.
• A duplicate deed will be created and given to the POC (Point of Contact- responsible party for the plot), without charge.