A. Calvary and Allied Cemeteries are being closed to all visitors to protect the health and safety of our employees, families and visitors. The New York State Department of Health has advised the New York State Funeral Directors Association that visitation and funeral services are considered non-essential gatherings. We are taking proactive steps to mitigate the spread of the virus, as many of the cemeteries memorials and visitor spaces do not allow for the recommended social distancing that is called for by medical guidelines. Families have been waiting patiently to bury their loved ones and we are continuing to accommodate this critical mission under current conditions.
A. Burials are taking place Monday to Saturday during normal business hours. The funeral director and 4 other family members are permitted to wait in their car while a service is taking place. (We have generally said the funeral director and four family members may accompany the clergy officiant to the gravesite or entrance to the mausoleum for the Rite of Committal.)
A. No. Funeral homes or families who are looking to initiate a burial, entombment or inurnment should call each cemetery respectively to begin the scheduling process.
A. Calvary and Allied Cemeteries will continue to assess the situation and will keep the public informed as we adapt our policies and procedures to the changing conditions. We will regularly reflect all status changes via an updated banner on this website and other social media platforms. We encourage anyone who hopes to visit any of the cemeteries to continue checking this website for the most up-to-date information.
A. Calvary and Allied Cemeteries has approximately 5 to 20 cemetery caretakers and representatives working every day working at each cemetery respectively, to ensure that our deceased are laid to rest with the dignified rites that are a cherished tradition. Where appropriate, we are also maximizing the use of telework for our office staff. Our entire team is following both New York State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
A. In accordance with the Executive Order issued by New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo on April 15, Calvary and Allied Cemeteries is following all State guidelines and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance to protect the cemeteries families, visitors and employees as we continue to perform essential burial services. Calvary and Allied Cemeteries requires employees (and highly encourages all burial attendees) to wear cloth face coverings when they cannot maintain six feet of social distance.