The Memorial Garden is designed to provide an appropriate space for the interment or scattering of ashes of deceased members of the Saint Patrick's parish. Its location was chosen in order that it be in the midst of the ongoing life of the community. It also adds an additional spiritual dimension to the church.

The Episcopal Church has recognized cremation as a Christian form of burial for many years. Since, in an earlier era, cemeteries were often located on the church grounds, it seemed particularly appropriate that a garden be established at Saint Patrick's throughout which ashes of the deceased could be distributed.

As with all burial services, Saint Patrick's should be notified at once when a death occurs. The funeral home should be notified also, so that arrangements for cremation may be made. Burial Services are under the direction of the Vicar of Saint Patrick's. Normally the Burial Service is held at the church followed by a procession to the Memorial Garden for the committal of the ashes.

All baptized members of Saint Patrick's, their spouses and children, are eligible for interment in the Garden. Others, with valid ties to Saint Patrick's, will be considered at the discretion of the Rector and Senior Warden. Once interred, either in the columbarium or ground, no ashes may be removed for any reason.

Landscaping and upkeep of the Garden is an ongoing responsibility of the Building and Grounds Committee of Saint Patrick's. Memorial gifts, to help defray these costs, may be made at any time to Saint Patrick's and designated for this purpose. All gifts are placed in the Memorial Garden Fund reserved for maintenance and furnishing of the Garden.

For those wishing to utilize the scattered-ashes method, a suitable area within the Garden is available. The cost of the name engraved stone containing the name of the deceased, the date of birth and the date of death, and the cost of perpetual care is $500. This fee is paid to the church office at the time the stone is ordered. The marker stone will be chosen at the time of burial and in consultation with the Vicar.

The cost for a niche is $1000. The niche will include space for two standard containers. This cost will include the purchase of an engraved stone containing the name of the deceased, the date of birth and the date of death.

Contracts will be executed by the purchaser of a niche and the Vestry at the time of purchase. While ownership of a niche cannot be transferred or sold, upon request Saint Patrick's will repurchase any unused niche at the purchaser's original cost. No land transaction is involved.