It was once common to find a burial ground surrounding a village church. The Churchyards witnessed Chrstians' belief that both life and death are in God's hands and that our death is a part of his life. Because of land required and strict health laws, traditional interment is impossible for congregations to develop as a part of their ministry.

The Columbarium provides a rare opportunity for us to reclaim the churchyard burial tradition. Now that cremation is a growing and acceptable practice, churches like ours can offer a memorial niche to any member (and family) interested in the simplicity and dignity that this form of disposition provides. We feel that St. Stephens-Bethlehem has met this need with the Columbarium and Memorial Churchyard, a resting place for cremated remains of loved ones and a place to come and remember. Our Columbarium and Memorial Churchyard informational booklets may be requested through the church office at (716) 632-4226.