ST. GERTRUDE CEMETERY & MAUSOLEUM TO HOST FREE OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND

News provided by

Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark

Apr 17, 2026, 06:10 ET

Historic Catholic Cemetery in Colonia, N.J., Invites Families to Tour Acclaimed Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum; 2025 Pricing Ends April 27

COLONIA, N.J., April 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark will host a free Open House Weekend at St. Gertrude Cemetery & Mausoleum on Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Located at 53 Inman Avenue in Colonia, Middlesex County — only minutes from New York City — the event offers families an exceptional opportunity to tour the cemetery's acclaimed Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum, meet with bilingual memorial planning advisors, and lock in 2025 pricing before a scheduled increase takes effect on April 27.

Rev. Michael Barone, Chaplain of Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum, offers a warm and pastoral look at the spiritual and practical benefits of pre-planning from a Catholic perspective. Drawing on Scripture, the teachings of the Church, and his ministry to grieving families, Fr. Barone addresses the questions Catholic families ask most and explains why planning ahead is an act of love. Watch the full series on our website: https://rcancem.org/pre-plan

Inside the new Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum is the stunning stained-glass window depicting the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven, located in the Chapel of the Ascension — a beautiful new section dedicated exclusively to cremations.

The Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum is a celebrated landmark of the Archdiocese of Newark, featuring a spectacular marble statue of the Resurrected Christ at the entrance.

The Resurrection Chapel Mausoleum is a celebrated landmark of the Archdiocese of Newark, featuring two chapels — one for traditional burial services and one dedicated exclusively to the interment of cremated remains, the first of its kind in archdiocesan history. The facility is adorned with 18 masterworks of liturgical art inspired by the Holy Family, the Apostles, the saints, and the angels.

"Spring is a season of hope and renewal, and there is no better time for families to take this meaningful step," said Joseph Heckel, Executive Director of Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark. "Our Open House gives the community a chance to speak with compassionate advisors in both English and Spanish and make informed decisions that bring lasting peace of mind."

The Open House also addresses a growing pastoral concern: cremated remains that have not yet found a permanent resting place. The Church calls Catholics to inter cremated remains in a sacred, consecrated setting, and memorial planning advisors will be on hand to discuss affordable, flexible financing options available exclusively during the event.

2025 pricing increases on April 27. No appointment is necessary, and admission is free. To register, visit rcancem.org/open-house/saint-gertrude or call (732) 388-0311.

Father Barone's Pre-Planning Video Series is available at rcancem.org/pre-plan. The newly redesigned rcancem.org also features Gabriel, a Virtual Angel Assistant available 24/7 to answer questions about burial, cremation, and pre-planning.

SOURCE Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark