Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

As the sun illuminated phase two of Queen of Angels Cemetery, Bishop John Noonan led a procession to bless the property and its Marian statues. The new section features a committal shelter, over 3,000 full body sites, more than 500 cremation spaces, and future granite columbarium columns.

Bishop Noonan performed blessings at each Marian statue: Our Lady of La Vang, Our Lady of Guadalupe, Blessed Virgin Mary Our Lady of Mercy, and Mother of Christ. Attendees experienced a serene atmosphere with religious music as they honored the act of burying the dead.

Nenette Saclolo from Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Winter Park attended the event. Her cousin will soon be moved to the Mother of Christ section. “It’s so peaceful and quiet and serene,” she remarked about having a nearby Catholic cemetery.

Marlena Solomon from St. Joseph Parish in Orlando was present with her family to honor her grandmother Maria Quintanilla on what would have been her 83rd birthday. “It was extra special since it is her birthday,” Solomon said. Her brother William reflected on their loss and the comfort found in being together at this site.

Bishop Noonan addressed families present at Queen of Angels Cemetery: “It’s a day to visit your loved ones.” He emphasized the expansion's beauty and importance: “We give witness to the sacredness of a Catholic cemetery where the dead are laid to rest with prayerful Christian dignity.”

Cemetery director David Branson concluded by stating, “We are humbled by the love of the families we have the opportunity to serve.”