The history of the Catholic Cemeteries in the Archdiocese of Chicago actually pre-dates the establishment of the diocese. This first Catholic cemeteries were church graveyards that were in existence before the diocese was formed. The earliest of these cemeteries, St. James at Sag Bridge, which still accepts burials today, was established in 1837. The first cemetery founded to serve the Catholic faithful from the Chicago area was Calvary Cemetery, consecrated in 1859. Many of the early Catholic cemeteries were founded by people of a particular nationality. Today, these cemeteries welcome all the Catholic faithful from the Archdiocese of Chicago.

The Catholic Cemeteries of Chicago consists of 43 cemeteries. Sixteen of these cemeteries are diocesan cemeteries with permanent administrative and field staffs. The remainder of these cemeteries are parish cemeteries, whose care and operation has been turned over by the individual parishes to Catholic Cemeteries. The Catholic Cemeteries of Chicago have an extensive inventory of graves available for selection. This inventory is made up of graves located in shrine sections, graves that allow for the placement of monuments, and graves that have an upright monument that is shared by numerous families. Also located in the Catholic cemeteries are indoor and outdoor mausoleum facilities. The current number of mausoleum crypts and niches available for selection is also plentiful. These artistic and inspirational buildings provide burial space for those preferring above ground burial, as well as places for prayer and reflection. Pre-need burial arrangements, of either ground or mausoleum burial, can be arranged for with a small down payment and interest free monthly payments.

Over 90% of all funerals from the Chicago parishes in the Archdiocese of Chicago choose a Catholic cemetery for their burial needs. This strong commitment to a Catholic cemetery is not only the result of family ties, tradition, and a commitment to one’s faith even in death; but also as letters from lot holders inform us, they are as equally influenced by the levels of service, maintenance and value found in the Catholic cemeteries. One of the best values found in the Catholic cemeteries is the Optional Complete Service (OCS) plan. Under one arrangement, a Catholic family can plan all their cemetery needs including their grave, internment/vault handling fee, concrete outer burial container, lawn level granite marker, and future care of grave for a low down payment and an interest free monthly payment.

If you are interested in additional information about the Catholic Cemeteries, please call 708-449-6100 or visit our website at www.cathcemchgo.org.