Columbarium
COLUMBARIUMS AT THE COURTENAY CEMETERY
The City of Courtenay’s cemetery has added a second columbarium.
The columbariums are rectangular in shape with polished light gray granite base, top and pillars, highlighted by individual black doors. Each freestanding wall provides standard sized compartments, or niches, each providing adequate space for two urns. Each niche has a patented security system for protection against unauthorized access and vandalism.
A columbarium is ancient in origin. The name ‘columbarium’ is derived from the Latin phrase (columba, a word meaning “dove” that routinely came to symbolize both peace and the Holy Spirit for many early Christians) used to describe a structure of niches housing the ashes of the deceased during the time of the Roman Empire, a columbarium provides a suitable site for burial by inurnment.
Niche spaces at the cemetery are now available for sale to families at need or can be purchased as part of the estate planning. Anyone interest in purchasing a niche or finding out more information may call the cemetery department at City Hall, 250-334-4441, or email info@courtenay.ca. The cemetery brochure can be accessed by clicking the following link Cemetery Brochure (2 page PDF). The City also offers cremation urns and porcelain memorial portraits for sale. Contact City Hall for more information.
Frequently asked questions about the Columbaria and Niche Spaces at the Courtenay Cemetery
Last Update : Friday, June 24, 2011