Columbarium & Memorial Garden

A memorial garden is a garden in which cremains are scattered and worked into the soil of a natural and landscaped space as a part of an inurnment service.

The memorial garden is available. We are starting construction in July, 2025, as we will have six columbaria: A B C D E F.

The many activities and users of the church facilities were considered, and a distinctive design was created for a columbarium/memorial garden on the east lawn of the church under the beautiful large cross. The leaves and grapes on the fence are similar to those on the communion rail in the sanctuary symbolizing the sacrament of Holy Communion.

• More than 50% of the population is choosing cremation. This has increased the demand for a columbarium in cemeteries as well as inspired many congregations to plan to build a columbarium on their own site.
• It provides comfort to a family to have the final resting place of a deceased loved one within the church grounds.
• It affirms our faith that those who die in the Christian faith join with the saints in light as well as the current worshipping faith community.
• It is a visible sign that the church cares for its members from birth and baptism through death and the promises of eternal life.
• It is theologically sound and environmentally friendly.

Funding for the columbarium/memorial garden is provided through the pre-sale of niches, memorial gifts, and any other donations specified for this project. The columbarium is self-supporting and not included in the Bethel general budget. There is a governing board (Columbarium Team) with bylaws and policies, to regulate, guide and communicate needs.

Bethel members, their families, former members of the congregation, Bethel staff, and others approved by the Columbarium Team are eligible for inurnment in the columbarium or memorial garden.

$2,000: Double niche
$1,600: Single niche
$600: Memorial Garden

Each niche is 8″ in diameter and 16″deep and has the capacity to hold up to two urns

$2,000: Double niche
$1,600: Single niche
$600: Memorial Garden

Each niche is 8″ in diameter and 16″deep and has the capacity to hold up to two urns

Contact a member of the Columbarium Team or inquire for further direction at the church office (507-288-6430). 

• Ardell Olson | Phone 507-254-7030 | acoehs@gmail.com
• Cheri Brinson | Phone 507-269-5849 | hgp5@aol.com
• Dorothy Becher | Phone 507-282-7820 | dbecher515@icloud.com
• Paul Velsor | Phone 507-208-4193 | kkvpsv@charter.net 
• Rick Rathbun | 507-261-6020 | chop75@charter.net
• Rev. Anjanette K. Bandel | 507-288-6430 | bandel@bethellutheran.com