What is natural burial?
Natural burial is a way of caring for the dead with minimal environmental impact. The body returns naturally to the earth, “For dust you are and to dust you shall return,” Genesis 3:19. Natural burial will appeal to environmentalists, those wishing for simpler funeral choices, or as an alternative to cremation.
I have heard about these, but didn't realize we had a place here in Albany area. Awesome!!!! - S.B
Locations
Kateri Meadow Natural Burial Preserve- Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna, NYThis preserve is named for Kateri Tekakwitha (1658-1680), the beloved "Lily of the Mohawk," who lived a few miles away in Auriesville, NY. Kateri, who was canonized as the first Native American Saint in 2012, is the patroness of the environment and ecology.St. Michael’s Meadow Natural Burial Preserve- Calvary Cemetery, Glenmont, NYOur Natural Burial Preserves are meadow landscapes for natural burial. Only burial shrouds or natural biodegradable caskets can be used. Burial vaults are not permitted. Embalming is not required. Memorials are limited to natural granite blocks supplied by the cemetery. The granite may be inscribed with the name of the deceased and dates of birth and death. Decorations are not permitted.
Can we have a wake, funeral mass and committal service?
Through its funeral rites, the Church commends the dead to the merciful love of God and pleads for the forgiveness of their sins. When natural burial is chosen, the full course of the Order of Christian Funerals should still be celebrated, including the Vigil Service (wake), the Funeral Liturgy, and the Rite of Committal. The preservation of this order allows for the greater expression of our beliefs and values, especially, the sacredness of human life, the dignity of the individual person and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the firstborn of the dead.
