THE COLUMBARIUM
AT FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
The Columbarium at First United Methodist Church of Lubbock is a serene place for contemplation and a special space to gather in our beautiful courtyard to celebrate and honor the lives of loved ones. Each niche contains the ashes of the departed loved one stored in an urn with the name of the loved one engraved on the front of the niche. As cremation has increasingly become a more popular option at the end of life, our congregation has responded by allowing the ashes of our deceased members to remain and be cared for at their church home.
Columbarium FAQ
What is a columbarium?
A columbarium is a place where urns of cremated human remains (cremains) are stored (inurned) in niches, with each niche storing urns for two subscribers.
Where is FUMC’s Columbarium?
It is located north of the Sanctuary and east of the Choir Suite.
Who can use the Columbarium?
Interment in the Columbarium will be available to any member or former member of the Church, ordained Methodist ministers that served the Church, and employees and former employees of the Church. Spouses, parents, children and grandchildren are included.
Can I choose where my niche will be located?
The Columbarium Committee manages the niche assignments – assigning them on a first-come, first-served basis.
What needs to happen after the cremation?
We provide the urn for the ashes, which you will take to the funeral home or cremation service, and either the funeral home staff or you will transfer the ashes to the urn. Then you will bring the urn to the Columbarium on the day of your inurnment service.
Can a small memorial service be held in the Columbarium Area?
Yes. Inurnment services will be at the Columbarium just as they are held at a gravesite. Memorial or funeral services will be held in our worship spaces in the same manner as they are currently held for our members.
Can I visit anytime I want?
Yes. The Columbarium is accessible any time between daylight and dusk, daily.
How much does a niche in the Columbarium cost?
Each niche will hold two urns, each containing the remains of one person. The cost of the niche, two urns, engraving on the front of the niche, and the fee for opening and closing the inurnment is $5,000.
If I only need space for one urn is the price any different?
No. You are paying for the niche and the other services that go with it, whether it is one or two urns.
How do I reserve a niche?
You may subscribe by downloading, printing, and filling out the Agreement and turning it in to Danny Johnston, FUMC Chief Financial Officer, at the church or call him at (806) 763-4607. You will also find the Legal Documents: Rules & Regulations below.