Twentieth Anniversary of the Columbarium

Posted on by Shadyside Presbyterian Church
“God of our life, through all the circling years … Our heart’s true home when all our years have sped.” ­— The Reverend Dr. Hugh Thomson Kerr
Sheep May Safely Graze: Immediately outside the Columbarium hangs a pastoral scene, painted by the late John Haughwout, which references the image of God as a shepherd caring for His sheep.
Sheep May Safely Graze: Immediately outside the Columbarium hangs a pastoral scene, painted by the late John Haughwout, which references the image of God as a shepherd caring for His sheep.

As we observe All Saints’ Sunday, we remember and give thanks for the lives of our deceased loved ones in light of the Resurrection — the ultimate source of solace and comfort afforded by our faith. Furthermore, we reverently recall those faithful departed whose families have chosen inurnment in the Columbarium at Shadyside Presbyterian Church for their loved ones. This year, All Saints’ Sunday marks the twentieth anniversary of the dedication of Shadyside’s Columbarium.

The Columbarium is a sacred and beautiful space for mortal remains in the peace and permanence of our beloved church home. Located in the Chapel Narthex, it contains over 300 bronze memorial niches available for those who prefer this form of memorialization.

The design of the Columbarium by the late John L. Haughwout, church member and architect, made use of several existing elements — including a screen wall with stained glass panels and a Virgil Cantini bronze bas-relief — in order to achieve a well-integrated final space. Authorized by the Session in 1994, the project was completed three years later, after much careful planning and construction. The Columbarium was then dedicated on All Saints’ Sunday, November 2, 1997.

The peaceful ambiance of this space provides a setting which invites quiet meditation, reflection, and prayer, while offering the comfort of familiar, well-loved church surroundings. Burial within or on church property has been practiced for many centuries, while the practice of cremation has become an increasingly popular option in the past several decades. Both methods of final disposition are supported by the Christian Church. Members interested in considering this memorial option may contact a member of the Columbarium Committee through the church office.

Contributed by Elder Robert G. Mayer Jr.