History
From 1850 to 1993, Catholic Cemeteries Association have such rich history of growth and prosperity. - 1850, Indianapolis Catholics began a search for ground for a consecrated cemetery. -1891, the cemetery Holy Cross Cemetery became established by Msgr. Auguste Francois Bessonies. -1870, a second Catholic cemetery, German Cemetery, was established. It later became St. Joseph Cemetery and eventually merged with Holy Cross Cemetery to become part of the Holy Cross Cemeteries Association. -1914, anticipating future needs, the Holy Cross Cemeteries Association purchased approximately seventy acres of land less than a mile south of the original cemeteries. In 1935, Calvary Cemetery was developed on that land. In 1951, all three cemeteries were joined under the Catholic Cemeteries Association. - 1993, the Archdiocese acquired land on Haverstick Road west of Keystone at the Crossing for Our Lady of Peace Cemetery. The first burial in Our Lady of Peace occurred in March of 1996.
Specialties
Why choose a Catholic Cemetery? Each person, created in the image and likeness of God, sets out on a faith journey. Our church, and in particular the local parish, is always present along the way to minister to the traveler's needs and to celebrate significant milestones in their lives. Catholic cemeteries are an extension of the parish where those who have worshiped and prayed together in life now await the resurrection of the body in death. Catholic cemeteries are rooted in ancient religious traditions that display a respect for the deceased and a reverence for their physical remains. A core belief which dates back to the birth of Christianity is that there is a direct relationship between Jesus' death and resurrection and the death and resurrection of the Christian. Catholics believe in life eternal. By choosing a Catholic cemetery, one selects a final resting place that reflects the beliefs and values from life's personal journey. It is a resting place that is sacred and shared with all fellow pilgrims awaiting the resurrection of the dead and the promise of everlasting life.