What is a Columbarium? A columbarium is a structure designed to inter urns containing cremated human remains. The word comes from the Latin word “columba” meaning dovecote or dove house, which named the structure of brick niches housing cremated remains in the Roman Empire. The word also came to be used to describe places where Christians gathered for prayer, and lies behind our English word for chapel. For Christians, the imagery of the dove is a witness to the Holy Spirit, “the Lord and giver of life”, who sustains us not only in this life, but in life eternal. In July, we were honored to have a mother dove choose our Columbarium area to build her nest and bring two little ones into the world. Truly…..…a columba….…….in the Columbarium at Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church. Pastor Doug comments on The Columbarium….. “Christians have always cherished the placement of their deceased loved ones. This is why I am pleased by the construction of our new Columbarium. In recent years, there has been much interest in our Church congregation to build a columbarium on our campus. Many members have based their interest in the fact that our Church has played a major role in the development of their lives and their Christian walk. PDCPC has been a fixture in their family and the site of some of the most significant events in their lives. Following this tradition of church involvement, many of our members look forward to having their final resting place in the shadow of their beloved Church.” Who may purchase a niche in The Columbarium? Eligible purchasers of niche reservations include PDCPC members or former members and their spouses and their children. Eligible purchasers also include friends of the Church who regularly attend and support its ministry. What are the pricing and niche options? Each niche is capable of holding a single urn for an individual or two urns for two persons. The niches are offered at two different price categories. Niches located closer to eye level are priced at $2,000 for a single urn and $3,000 for two urns. Niches located above and below this level are priced at $1,500 for a single urn and $2,500 for two urns. These prices include a bronze urn, inurnment, inscription of a bronze plaque and perpetual care. The prices do not include the cost of cremation or sanctuary services. A portion of the purchase price may be deductible as a charitable contribution for income tax purposes. The Columbarium at Palm Desert Community Presbyterian Church The new 162-niche Columbarium is located adjacent to the Sanctuary at the west entrance. For information regarding the Columbarium or to purchase a niche reservation, please contact a member of the Columbarium Committee.
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