Mausoleums are available for above ground burial, either in climate controlled buildings or outside garden buildings. Early Church history tells us the first mausoleum was built in 353 BC for King Mausolus, from whose name the word “mausoleum” was derived. Additionally, scripture tells us in Luke 23:52-54, that Joseph of Arimathea “went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. He then took it down, wrapped it in a shroud and put him in a tomb which was hewn in stone in which no one had yet been laid.”
Throughout the Church’s history, above ground, mausoleum-style entombment has been utilized. Early Christians were buried in the catacombs. In older churchyard cemeteries private mausoleums can be found, but because of their costs they were available only to the fortunate.
Today, community mausoleum facilities make above ground burial surprisingly affordable. Mausoleum entombment is very comparable in cost to ground burial, and in many instances can be less.
The Court of the Apostles at Calvary, the St. Joseph Courtyard at historic St. Joseph/Holy Cross Cemeteries, and the Our Lady of Peace-Prince of Peace Mausoleum buildings are lasting, for generations to visit. This is a beautiful option for those who prefer above ground burial.
