Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago has announced the introduction of a natural burial option at the Meadows of St. Kateri, a new section within St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery located at 1185 W. Algonquin Rd., Palatine. This initiative aims to provide families with meaningful ways to honor their loved ones while respecting environmental considerations. The Archdiocese of Chicago is noted as the first Catholic diocese in Illinois to offer such an option.

An outdoor Mass and blessing ceremony for the new burial site will take place on Sunday, Sept. 8 at noon, followed by tours.

“We are honored to offer a new natural burial option that not only respects the environment but also aligns with Catholic teachings for treating the human body with dignity,” said Ted Ratajczyk, executive director of Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. “This initiative reflects our commitment to providing choices that honor the dignity of life, the needs of our community and the values of our faith.”

The dedicated acre for natural burials at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery will feature winding walking trails, native plants, and a mixture of meadow and forest terrain. Named after St. Kateri Tekakwitha, known as Lily of the Mohawks and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on Oct. 21, 2012, this space aims to provide a sacred area for reflection and connection with nature.

“Cemeteries have always been important in the life of the faithful. They are where early Christians gathered to remember and celebrate the lives of the martyrs,” said Very Rev. Lawrence Sullivan, priest director of Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago. “Today’s cemeteries are called to be sacred places where loved ones are remembered, and God’s presence is felt. We hope the Meadows of St. Kateri will bring this sense of God’s love to our families.”

Natural burials emphasize simplicity and environmental responsibility by allowing bodies to return naturally to earth, aligning with Catholic teachings on life sanctity and environmental respect while reflecting growing environmental consciousness among Americans.

For more information about natural burials and other options offered by Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Chicago, visit https://www.catholiccemeterieschicago.org/.