Is a natural burial site consecrated?

There are many myths surrounding natural burial, some of which we tried to dispel in this previous article. One common myth is that natural burial is only for atheists and humanists.

Here at Tithe Green Natural Burial, we’re always happy to welcome anyone of any – or indeed of no – faith. But if you’re a Christian, you might be worried about whether you should be buried in consecrated ground.

In this article, we’re going to explore the concept of consecrated ground and find out how it applies to natural burial sites such as ours.

What is consecration?

Consecration is the act of blessing a plot of land so that it may be used for religious – specifically, Christian – purposes. Usually, this will be a cemetery or other burial ground, and traditionally only Christians could be buried there.

There is nothing specific within Christian faith that says a believer has to be buried in consecrated ground. The Catholic Church recommends it, but still allows for burial or scattering of ashes within unconsecrated ground. Nevertheless, burial in consecrated ground is still a preferred option for many committed Christians, as they feel it would make them closer to God.

Are natural burial grounds consecrated?

Most natural burial grounds – including Tithe Green – will not be consecrated. A whole cemetery or burial ground will usually only be fully consecrated if it is owned or managed by a particular church or parish.

Consecrated sections were incorporated at our Ketton and Oxton sites as part of their initial creation, but all spaces in them are either full or have already been pre-purchased.

Can I have a natural burial plot consecrated?

Consecrating individual plots at Tithe Green isn’t possible, because we want to ensure that our site remains equally open and accessible to everyone, regardless of their individual beliefs.

However, we are more than happy for your plot to be blessed in any way you choose, and we will always do whatever we can to facilitate any reasonable request you make.

Can I have a religious service at a natural burial ground?

Different sites may have different rules regarding religious services, but in most cases – including at Tithe Green – everyone will be welcome to have the service they feel is most appropriate, including a religious one.

Partly, that’s because the environmental aspect of natural or green burial is our main driving force. So as long as you follow our simple rules regarding using only natural and biodegradable materials, you can have almost any kind of service you want.

All we ask is that those using our site treat all others – and their personal faiths and beliefs – with the same levels of respect that they would expect to be treated with themselves.

If you have any questions about any aspect of natural burial, please feel free to get in touch with the team at Tithe Green Natural Burial today. With meadow and woodland burial sites in Markfield, Oxton and Ketton, we’re one of the leading providers of green burial solutions in the UK.