Making burial arrangements at Loretto Woods
Making burial arrangements is an important decision. We are here to support you whether you are exploring options, planning ahead for your own burial, or making arrangements for a loved one.
In Loretto Woods, we sell the right to be buried in the woods rather than a specific plot. Decisions about location are made at the time of burial in order to prioritize what is best for the woods. Considerations include the expected number of guests, the season and recent rainfall as well as the flora and fauna present at the time. We do, however, honor requests to be buried beside a loved as long as doing so is in accordance with best practices for managing the woods.
Steps to purchase the right to be buried at Loretto Woods
We recommend visiting Loretto Woods prior to purchasing burial rights so you can experience the land firsthand. You are welcome to explore on your own or request a guided tour.
The 13-acre cemetery is only a small portion of the Motherhouse grounds which includes over 300 acres of woods, 50 acres of native grasses and flowers as well as three lakes. You are welcome to hike the 5 miles of Motherhouse trails or to sit quietly by Mary’s Lake or Badin Pond. At the educational kiosk you will find maps and information about upcoming events.
Photo by Susan Classen
Besides being home to about 80 Loretto Community members, Loretto Motherhouse also includes a licensed long term care facility, a working farm, two retreat centers, and the Loretto Heritage Center.
Visit on your own (maps and directions)
Request a guided tour
Before making a final decision regarding your burial plans, it’s important to carefully review the following documents:
If you decide you would like a natural burial at Loretto Woods, the next step is to complete a Loretto Woods burial form. The form includes questions about your burial preferences. For example, if you want to be buried in a shroud or biodegradable coffin. It also provides us with contact information.
You are welcome to come to the Loretto Motherhouse to sign the contract and make the payment in person or to do it remotely. We accept payment by check or money order but we do not accept credit cards. Loretto Woods staff will contact you about signing the contract when your form is received.
Loretto Woods is a cemetery, not a funeral home, so it’s important to arrange the following with a funeral home or a home funeral guide: caring for the body immediately after death, preserving the body, shrouding or casketing, filing the death certificate and arranging transportation to Loretto Woods.
Discussing your plans with loved ones is important throughout the planning process. It is also an act of kindness to ensure that they have copies of your final arrangements and are clear about your preferences. When you deal with logistics by planning ahead, it alleviates a great deal of stress for those left behind.
At the time of death, Loretto Woods staff will work with the designated contact person (identified on your burial form) and your chosen funeral home to schedule the burial.
See “Planning a Service” for additional options available at Loretto, including the Guest House for overnight accommodations, space for informal gatherings or meals, and several locations for rituals or sharing.
