The Oratory Memorial Garden

is located on the grounds of the Rock Hill Oratory. It was created to provide a simple, natural place for the remains of those who choose cremation.

The Oratory Memorial Garden is nestled among the mature azaleas and dogwoods between Newman Hall and the Church of Our Lady and St. Philip Neri. It is a place of quiet beauty where one can come to remember those who are buried and also reflect on one’s own life, death and resurrection in Christ.

The Garden is a raised circular bed covered with periwinkle and enclosed in a fieldstone wall. The stone wall creates a natural bench, encouraging people to stop awhile. Behind the raised bed is a large stone, holding individual bronze plaques. For a small cost, families may choose to have the name of the deceased engraved on a plaque. Burial is free of charge.

Considerations

The plantings and care of the Garden are at the direction of the members of the Rock Hill Oratory in accordance with their general plan for the entire grounds.

It is our desire that the integrity of the simple woodland setting be maintained. Memorial objects are not permitted around the bed or burial site.

The Garden is available to anyone. Arrangements for burial may be made by contacting Joe Guyon, C.O. at (803) 327-2097.

A representative of the Oratory will be present at all burials in the Garden. The ashes of the deceased are buried and the container will be kept by the family.

The Oratory acknowledges that people grieve the loss of a loved one in different ways. Members of this religious community welcome the opportunity to provide this simple, inexpensive , ecological alternative.