In Kuching, 85 pct of St Peter’s columbarium’s 5,000 niches taken up

KUCHING (Oct 28): Eight-five per cent of the 5,000 niches at St Peter’s Catholic Church Padungan’s columbarium have been taken up.

Church rector Rev Vincent Chin said the columbarium completed in 2018 allows pre-bookings for those aged 45 and above.

“The columbarium is open to Catholics, with some families even bringing the ashes of loved ones from as far as the United States and Australia to be interred here,” he told The Borneo Post.

To honour the memory of those interred, Chin said St Peter’s includes their names in prayers not only on All Souls’ Day but also during special Friday services throughout November.

“Around five or six masses are dedicated each year for those resting here,” he shared.

Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kuching Datuk Simon Poh emphasised the columbarium’s value for those with families who may not live nearby.

“The columbarium is a solution for those with loved ones overseas or who may have relocated. It allows families to lay their loved ones to rest close to the church, as was traditionally done with cemeteries by the churchyard,” he explained.

Reflecting on a shift in customs, he said many families now find it difficult to maintain graves from afar and the Church recognises cremation as a respectful option.

“The Church has allowed for both burial and cremation, and we ensure a dignified place where families can gather to remember their loved ones,” said Poh.

In preparation for All Souls’ Day on Nov 2, the Catholic Church is appealing to parishioners to help maintain the cleanliness of the columbarium and cemetery grounds.

“Keeping these places clean shows respect for our loved ones and offers a place for prayer and reflection,” said Poh.

He invited parishioners to consider donating to help with the upkeep of the archdiocese’s six main cemeteries.

“Donations help us maintain these sites year-round, keeping them orderly and respectful so we can continue to honour those who rest here,” he added.