Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. (Letter to the Hebrews 12: 1-2)
Church tradition and biblical teaching emphasize the communion of saints binding together those who are living and those who have died in the Lord. At the Feast of All Saints, we affirm and celebrate our connection to the great cloud of witnesses.
A garland of saints for All Saints.
From the beginning of Christian common life, congregations have looked for ways to provide for the burial of the mortal remains of their members – from catacombs and carved stone ossuaries to grassy country churchyards. With the growing shift towards cremation, the columbarium and memorial scatter garden at St. Thomas are good ways to continue an ancient and holy tradition.
The Columbarium at St. Thomas
The Columbarium was added to the Prayer Garden at St. Thomas in 2009. It was constructed using designated memorial funds honoring two members of the congregation as well as other donations. The columbarium contains 60 niches, each providing space for two urns.
For more information, contact the Church Office.
The Memorial Scatter Garden
Many members expressed a desire also for a memorial scatter garden in the prayer garden at St. Thomas. In early 2010, following the completion of the columbarium, the circular scatter garden was added. It is beautifully landscaped and maintained by volunteers in the congregation.
For more information, contact the Church Office.
