HONG KONG (SE): The Diocesan Board of Catholic Cemeteries announced the planned development of a new columbarium at Section 26 in St. Raphael’s Catholic Cemetery, Cheung Sha Wan, Kowloon. It will provide 4,208 niches for allocation as “Niche [Multiple Extendable Terms]”.
This new initiative aims to restore continuous supply of niches to meet demand as the past decade, the ratio of body cremation to coffin burial for deceased Catholics has reached 9:1.
As existing columbarium niches at the cemetery have all been allocated since September 2022, there are none presently available for allocation in Kowloon area.
With approval from the government authority, construction of the new columbarium is scheduled for full completion by mid-2026.
It comprises of 14 rows of open niches built on Section 26, with the overall design being environmentally friendly and simple in concept, utilising open ventilation and natural light as a main theme for enhancement of peace and tranquillity.
While construction is ongoing, part of the cemetery together with the ancillary vehicular access may be blocked for unloading of building materials. The Cemetery Office will endeavour close liaison with the contractor to keep disruption to grave sweepers and the surrounding environment to minimum.
The “Niche [Multiple Extendable Terms]” is subject to renewable contract terms and allocation will commence at an initial term of 20 years extendable every 10 years thereafter. The Board of Catholic Cemeteries says that more details of arrangements will be provided later.
The Board of Catholic Cemeteries appeals for your understanding and patience for any inconvenience that might be caused. You may contact the St. Raphael’s Cemetery Office if assistance is required.
