Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Columbarium?
A columbarium is a vault with niches (compartments) for urns containing ashes of the deceased.

Why a columbarium?
Cemeteries have been a tradition for many years.  Because of limited space for full burials and desire to be buried close to friends and loved ones, a columbarium is a good solution.  This consecrated environment provides space for individuals to meditate, reflect, remember and celebrate the lives of those whose ashes are there. 

Does the Catholic Church approve of cremation?
Yes.  Cremation has been allowed by the Church since 1963. For further information about Catholic burial traditions, visit the USCCB website at www.usccb.org.

Where will the columbarium be located?
Our existing prayer garden will provide a beautiful and peaceful gathering space for services.  The columbarium will consist of three separate columns of niches and will be constructed of brick and granite.  There will be 240 niches, each accommodating two urns.

Who can be inurned in our columbarium?
Any registered or former member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish and other Catholic parishes within the Diocese of Charleston; and their immediate family members.

My spouse is not Catholic and I want to be buried with my spouse.  Can we be placed in the same niche?
Yes.  Each niche holds two urns.  Your non-Catholic spouse can have a funeral rite in Our Lady of Good Counsel Church and then be placed in your columbarium niche.

When will the columbarium be built?
Construction will begin after we have raied 50% of the construction costs and have approval by the Diocese of Charleston.  We hope to start construction by Summer 2021.

How will the columbarium be funded?
The columbarium will be totally funded through sales of niches.  It is estimated that approximately 56 niches will need to be purchased in order to completely fund construction.

What is the anticipated cost of a niche?
Two urns can fit within most niches.  The cost will be comparable to the prices charged by other Catholic cemeteries in the area. Non-parishioners will pay a higher fee.  For more information on cost and conditions, please call the parish office at 843-588-2336

How are niches assigned?
You may choose an available niche at the time of purchase.  If you choose not to select a niche location, the parish administration will select it for you.

Who will be in charge of administration?
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish is responsible for the sale and assignment of niches, financial management, operation, care and maintenance of the Columbarium, reporting to the proper diocesan office of the Diocese of Charleston.

What happens if I purchase a niche, never use it, or move away?
If requested, your money will be refunded, less 25% of license fee.