Non-Catholic Family Members

Who Can be Buried in a Catholic Cemetery?

One of the most frequent questions we field is "who can be buried in a Catholic cemetery?" There appears to be some misconceptions out there regarding whether non-Catholics can be buried in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia cemeteries.

As for me, I know that my Redeemer lives.

Job 19: 25a

Our true home is in heaven, and Jesus Christ, whose return we long for, will come from heaven to save us.

Philippians 3: 20

Yes, non-Catholics can be buried in Catholic cemeteries.

This is a concern for many people. We all want to be with loved ones in our final resting place. At the Philadelphia Catholic Cemeteries, we understand how important this is. Spouses of members of the Catholic Church can be buried with their spouses in one of our cemeteries. Non-Catholics may be buried with their Catholic spouses or other family member (e.g., mother-in-law, etc.) in a Catholic Cemetery.

Who can be buried in a Catholic cemetery?

  • If you are a member of the Catholic church, you can be buried in an Archdiocese of Philadelphia cemetery
  • If you are a member of the Catholic church but your spouse isn't, he or she can be buried with you
  • If your spouse is a member of the Catholic church but you aren't, you can be buried with him or her
  • These rules apply to the children of Catholic parents, and other family members, as well

To Begin the Process of Advance Planning a Burial

Find a Philadelphia Catholic cemetery or request a free, no obligation advance planning guide with useful information on the planning process.

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