Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago Introduces a Natural Burial Option, Eco-friendly Interments
Chicago, (Aug. 28, 2024) – Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago announces it will offer a natural burial option at the Meadows of St. Kateri, a new section at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery, 1185 W. Algonquin Rd., Palatine. This option provides families with new and meaningful ways to honor their loved ones. The Archdiocese of Chicago is the first Catholic diocese in Illinois to offer a natural burial option. An outdoor Mass and blessing of the burial site will take place on Sunday, Sept. 8 at noon followed by tours.
“We are honored to offer a new natural burial option that not only respects the environment but also aligns with Catholic teachings for treating the human body with dignity,” said Ted Ratajczyk, executive director of Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. “This initiative reflects our commitment to providing choices that honor the dignity of life, the needs of our community and the values of our faith.”
Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago has dedicated an acre of land for natural burials, the Meadows of St. Kateri, at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery. The Meadows will offer a sacred and beautiful space for quiet reflection and connection with nature for families to visit and remember their loved ones. The peaceful setting will feature winding walking trails, native plants and a mixture of meadow and forest terrain.
The Meadows of St. Kateri is named for St. Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American to be recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church. She is the patroness of the environment, ecology and Indigenous peoples. Tekakwitha is often referred to as Lily of the Mohawks in recognition of her kindness, prayer, faith and heroic suffering. She was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI at Saint Peter's Basilica on Oct. 21, 2012.
“Cemeteries have always been important in the life of the faithful. They are where early Christians gathered to remember and celebrate the lives of the martyrs,” said Very Rev. Lawrence Sullivan, priest director of Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. “Today’s cemeteries are called to be sacred places where loved ones are remembered, and God’s presence is felt. We hope the Meadows of St. Kateri will bring this sense of God’s love to our families.”
Natural burials, also known as “green” burials, emphasize simplicity and environmental responsibility by allowing the body to return to the earth naturally. The practice aligns with Catholic teachings on the sanctity of life and respect for the environment and honors the Catholic faith in the Resurrection - the cycle of death and rebirth. They are a reflection of a growing environmental consciousness among Americans. According to National Funeral Directors Association 2023 Consumer Awareness and Preferences Report, 60% would be interested in exploring “green” funeral options because of their potential environmental benefits and cost savings, up from 55.7% in 2021.
For more information about natural burials and other burial options offered by the Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago, please visit https://www.catholiccemeterieschicago.org/.
