In the Tomb

By: Kate Rhea, Cemeterian, Librarian/Archivist

THE CONCEPT OF Memento Mori is often generalized into a sentiment akin to remembrance or honoring the dead. Instead, the true significance of this lasting artistic style comes from its literal translation “remember (that you have) to die.” It may feel like a looming phrase, but in Christianity it is used as a reminder of mortality - the inevitability of death and the choices that lead to the afterlife experience. Death is not the end, but an important part of the journey.

In the years following Christ’s death, the Fathers of the Church deemed the practice of understanding mortality and facing death paramount to practicing their faith. They sought out sepulchers (tombs in caves) to be near those who died. The early fathers so passionately believed in the solace of tombs that they regularly sought it, practically entombing themselves for periods of time in order to gain clarity, peace, and to better commune with God, such as one might today visit a grave of a loved one to contemplate their own life.

Originally tombs were a way to offer a dwelling rather than a compartment for those who had passed on from the earthly realm, replete with necessities that may be needed in the afterlife. The most commonly recognized example of this practice comes from the ancient Egyptians with their palatial burial dwellings packed with everything from trinkets and treasures to the carefully extracted organs of the deceased, placed in ornamental jars. As centuries passed, the tombs got smaller and burial practices became more convenient; above ground tombs were replaced with crypts which were buried and marked with headstones. However, in much of Europe and particularly in France and Italy, the practice of above-ground crypts remained popular for traditionalists.

St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery has a large number of above-ground entombments, nearly all of which hold early French and Italian Shreveporters. Standing before one of these crypts, the true feeling that Memento Mori evokes is apparent; remember those who have died, remember that you too will die, but have no fear in death. As Moses prayed in Psalm 90, “… teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.”

To better protect the grave sites and memorials of those interred in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, 2100 Texas Avenue, we have installed a commercial keypad at the main entrance and the gates will remain closed at all times. Starting on October 15, if you plan to visit, you will need to contact The Catholic Center 318-868-4441 to receive a Personal Identification Number (PIN) in order to gain access. Do not share this code with others. When calling we will request your name, phone number and email address if available, as well as the family you are visiting. With your information we will be able to contact you in the future when it is necessary to change the code. We apologize for any inconvenience. By limiting access to the general public the increase in vandalism and destruction of statues and tombstones should decrease significantly by taking these precautions.