What is a columbarium?

A columbarium is a group of small compartments, or “niches” designed to hold the cremated remains of loved ones.

The Crossroads Outdoor Chapel & Columbarium at ALC provides:

A pleasing outdoor sanctuary for prayer, reflection, renewal, and remembrance.
A more favorable “inurnment” as compared to other methods. It is theologically sound, environmentally responsible, and economical.
An easy way to handle pre-need concerns, relieving the family of difficult decisions.
Provides comfort to the family having a memorial to their deceased loved ones within the church.
A visible sign that the American Lutheran Church cares for its members.

Who is eligible?

Members of American Lutheran Church and their families are eligible to acquire niches. Niches are not offered for sale to the general public.

What is a niche?

A niche is  a small compartment within which an urn with cremains can be placed and protected. The niche is extremely durable, built to withstand extreme stresses. A single niche can hold cremains in two urns. Urns with cremains are placed within the niche and capped with a granite face plate and housed in a masonry structure.

Cost & Donations

As of August 1, 2026*, one niche (which holds two urns), may be purchased for $3,500. The urn(s) and engraved granite face plate with the name of the deceased, plus years of birth and death are included in the cost.
Donations toward maintenance and upkeep of the chapel and columbarium are welcome and appreciated. 
A memorial wall is also located in the gardens, where loved ones can be memorialized by small, tastefully designed memorial wall plaques. Plaques are made of granite to match the niche and cost $350 per plaque.
*All Columbarium related prices are subject to change.

More Information

Contact ALC's Director of Administration through the church office: 928.445.4348.