And in regards to the maintenance and practices of Catholic cemeteries in
NYS, the Catholic cemeteries here in this diocese (Rochester) which is quite
extensive, are maintained and when it becomes absolutely necessary to move one for
highway expansion, etc., every attempt is made to relocate and re-inter the
remains of those who are buried, rather than pave over them.
In other dioceses, some of the cemeteries are not well-maintained, and some
are downright neglected. I have been in contact with the Bishop's office in
those areas and suggested they start a community project or contact local 4-H or
scout troops to see if they can help clear them of debris. In none of my
conversations with these people has the possibility of bulldozing and starting over
even been discussed--lack of funding always comes up, but never resorting to
total decimation of consecrated grounds.
I suppose what is happening in Quebec is subject to the Bishop's approval,
but I cannot believe there hasn't been a general outcry from the Catholic
population over it. I would almost bet that this diocese has not utilized all of
their possible resources or may not even be aware of community resources that
could assist them in maintaining the older church cemeteries. Perhaps, a
letter/petition to the Cardinal of that See with some possible suggestions of
available community resources might bring about some changes in their current
practices.
Judy Neu
Springwater, NY