Columbarium at St. Matthew’s
A Peaceful and Sacred Resting Place
The St. Matthew’s Columbarium offers a permanent resting place for cremated remains in a setting of prayer, remembrance, and hope in the resurrection.
Located on the grounds of our Episcopal church in Sterling, Virginia, the Columbarium provides a place where family and friends can return for reflection, prayer, and connection for generations to come.
What is a Columbarium?
A columbarium is a structure designed to hold cremated remains in individual niches.
For centuries, Christians have treated places of burial and remembrance as sacred spaces. Places where loved ones are honored, remembered, and entrusted to God’s eternal care.
The word “columbarium” comes from the Latin word for “dove house,” reflecting the Christian symbol of peace and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
At St. Matthew’s, the Columbarium serves as a quiet place for remembrance, prayer, and reflection within the life of the church community.
Why Families Choose a Church Columbarium
Many families choose a church columbarium because it offers more than a resting place. It remains connected to the worshiping community that shaped their lives.
The St. Matthew’s Columbarium offers:
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A peaceful and consecrated setting on church grounds
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A lasting place for remembrance and prayer
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Ongoing care and maintenance
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A simple option for long-term planning
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A meaningful connection to the life of the church
Families from Sterling, Ashburn, Herndon, Reston, and across Loudoun County often choose cremation and church interment as part of thoughtful end-of-life planning.
About our Columbarium
The Columbarium at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church was created to provide a peaceful and consecrated resting place for members of our church community and their loved ones.
Each niche includes:
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A Columbarium receptacle
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Engraved nameplate
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Perpetual care support
Niches are maintained by St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church and overseen by the church leadership and Columbarium Committee.
Who May Reserve a Niche?
Priority is given to:
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Current and former members of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
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Immediate family members
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Those with meaningful connections to the parish
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Other baptized Episcopalians, as space allows
If you have questions about eligibility or availability, we would be happy to talk with you.
Planning Ahead
Many people choose to reserve a niche long before it is needed. Planning ahead can simplify future decisions for loved ones and provide peace of mind for families.
Reserving a Niche includes:
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Interment rights
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Columbarium receptacle
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Engraved nameplate
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Perpetual care support
A deposit option is available, we ask that you submit a request for current pricing and details.
Christian Perspectives on Cremation
The Episcopal Church recognizes cremation as a faithful and reverent Christian practice.
Whether a body is buried or cremated, Christians place their hope in the resurrection and in God’s enduring love.
A church columbarium provides a sacred place where loved ones are remembered within the life of the church community.
