Randy Van Yahres, COO
Dear Friends in Christ,
With heartfelt gratitude, I embrace the opportunity to serve you and your families in this compassionate ministry, a trust bestowed upon me by Bishop Robert Brennan and the St. John’s Cemetery Board.
Our cemeteries are sacred spaces, lovingly consecrated by the Church and dedicated to God. They provide a haven of faith, hope, and comfort. Our devoted staff work tirelessly to maintain the beauty and serenity of the grounds, ensuring a dignified resting place for those in our care and a peaceful environment for those who come to remember their loved ones.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus comforts us with His words, “In my Father’s house, there are many rooms… I am going there to prepare a place for you.” The Lord, by his own three days in the tomb, hallowed the graves of all who believe in him. His Resurrection transformed the grave into a beacon of hope, encouraging us to trust in God and in Him.
We are deeply committed to upholding the faith and traditions of our Church. We offer Mass intentions for all those interred in our cemeteries and hold special Field Masses on All Souls Day and Memorial Day. You are always welcome to find a moment of peace and reflection in our Blessed Sacrament chapels.
It is both a sacred hope and a privilege for every Catholic to be laid to rest in a Catholic cemetery. Our cemeteries are more than just burial grounds; they are a loving Catholic community, united in the hope of sharing in Christ’s resurrection.
We are honored to provide this essential pastoral care and join you in praying that the souls of our faithful departed may rest in peace.
May the love of God and the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ bless and comfort us all.
Amen.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Randy Van Yahres
Chief Operating Officer
Catholic Cemeteries
