Q1: Who can I talk to about my questions and concerns?

A: Your Catholic Cemetery counselors are highly trained to assist you in making the proper selection from the many burial options that are available to you, and to answer all of your questions.

You may reach us by phone at 651-228-9991 or online by clicking here.

You may also review our "Pre-Planning" page for more information.

For your convenience, we've included the following answers to frequently asked questions. We welcome your inquiries.

Q2: What does the Catholic Church say about Cremation?

A: While the Church permits cremation, the Church clearly prefers and urges that the body of the deceased be present for the funeral rites, namely for the vigil and the funeral liturgy. The "Order of Christian Burial" contains provisions for the cremation of the body after the final commendation that concludes the funeral liturgy.

When it is not possible for the body to be present for the funeral liturgy, the Church now permits the cremated remains of the body to be present for the vigil, the funeral liturgy, and the committal rite. The parish church is the preferred place for the celebration of these rites. New prayer texts have been approved for use when the cremated remains of the body are present for the rites. Archbishop Flynn has approved the use of these prayers in the parishes of this archdiocese.

The cremated remains of the body are to be treated and handled with the same respect and dignity given to the corporeal remains of the body. This includes final disposition. If cremation is chosen as the means of final disposition, the remains are to be buried in the ground of a communal cemetery, preferably a Catholic Cemetery, or entombed in a communal mausoleum or columbarium. Therefore, the cultural practices of scattering cremated remains, keeping them at home, or interring them at the lake cabin are not considered reverent or appropriate ways of disposition from the standpoint of the Church.

Whenever possible, appropriate memorialization of the deceased should be utilized at the place of burial.

Q3: What are cemetery costs?

A: Costs vary by product and cemetery. Your pre-planning counselor will educate you on your options and costs.

Q4: What assurances do I have that the cemetery will be kept up even after it is full and generates no more revenue?

A: A percentage of the cost of each grave, crypt, or niche goes into a Permanent Care Fund which insures that your cemetery will be maintained.

Q5: Do I have to pay for cemetery property in full now?

A: No. Your Catholic Cemetery offers convenient payment plans designed to fit your means, some with no interest. If you pay in full, you will receive an extra 5% off your property purchase. This discount applies to preneed purchases only. Major credit cards are also accepted.

Q6: What does a funeral cost?

A: Cost will vary by the merchandise and services you select. Your pre-planning counselor will review all the options with you. We can tailor a funeral to meet almost everyone's budget.

Q7: Can I select any funeral home if I pre-plan?

A: Yes. Your pre-planning counselor will give you the pricing for whichever funeral home you select, or make arrangements for that information.

Q8: What if I move out of the area and decide on a different funeral home?

A: Your pre-plan insurance policy is transferable to any funeral home.

Q9: Funeral costs are sure to increase. How do I know I will be able to pay for my funeral with what I pay today?

A: Some funeral homes will guarantee the prices they quote you today. If not, the interest on your insurance policy should cover inflation. Your pre-planning counselor will explain this to you in detail.

 Q10: How can I find information regarding genealogies?

A: At this time we recommend all inquiries be forwarded in writing to:

Archdiocesan Archives
Attn: Patrick Anzelc
226 Summit Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55102

Note: Currently, The Catholic Cemeteries is not handling these requests.