Catholic Cemeteries in the Diocese of Metuchen exist to meet the needs of individuals and families before, at the time of death and burial, and throughout bereavement. By setting aside a holy place for burial we provide a fitting environment for full liturgical celebrations. Just as in life, we believe that in death the human body deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. We also foster a type of remembering that is enlightened by faith and sees death as a bridge to the communion of saints. Our bonds with the believing are not broken by death.
Our cemeteries are places of prayer for the dead. By encouraging frequent visits of families and friends of the deceased, the Church seeks to foster an environment where love is remembered, hope rekindled, and faith awakened and strengthened. We are a people who come to our cemeteries to be reminded of our history, our Catholic beliefs and practices, and our community as identified in the various parishes of the Diocese of Metuchen. We, as a community, profess our beliefs and value system...even in the silence of the grave.
Painful as it might be, we encourage you to return to the burial place of your beloved. Find there, in the presence of those mortal remains, one joined with the communion of saints. Join with us in prayer for the eternal rest of your beloved deceased. In the stillness of the cemetery, connect with that great prayer of the early Church, "Maranatha" "Lord Jesus, come!"
Several ministries are active in our Diocese for the support and comfort of the bereaved.
Please visit the Office of Family Life.