Cremation gaining popular acceptance

There is a large and understandable measure of comfort to be drawn from the traditional practice of burial within the confines of a cemetery. Recently, however, there has been a widespread return to the ancient practice of cremation. It is a dignified means of interment and has become increasingly appropriate as land available in cemeteries has become scarce as well as expensive. In this line, the Columbarium has gained popularity as a place for the interment for the ashes of the faithful.

At the Magnificat, a church and columbarium complex in Fort Bonifacio, ashes can be deposited within the structure of the church and columbarium complex in Fort Bonifacio, ashes can be deposited within the structure of the church building, making it an alternative that is theologically, ecologically and economically sensible.

"As we place ashes in the columbarium of the Magnificat, we situate our loved ones and ourselves in a context of loving, worshiping community," says Father Benny Tuazon of the San Juan Nepomuceno parish in Malibay, Pasay. In every Mass that is held at the Magnificat, a prayer is dedicated and offered for the departed ones in the Columbarium, as the faithful believe in the spiritual significance of honoring the dead.

"The columbarium at the Magnificat has allowed me to share the concept of planning ahead with my business associates and employees," says Ramon Ungco, EVP of an export processing zone company. "As they get their health benefits, dental benefits, etc., I saw it fit to provide them with benefits that will ease the burden of their families when they enter the afterlife. It is indeed an investment in human values, which is why I chose the Magnificat."

"The Magnificat meets the needs of those who desire a place of interment for themselves and their loved ones. I see it to be a place where my family can be together for generations to come. And it doesn’t just start from my time," a matriarch from a prominent Pampanga family affirms.