A somber hush falls. The Risen Savior Mausoleum stands before you. Its tan brick walls whisper stories of faith and remembrance.
The Risen Savior Mausoleum isn’t just a building. It’s a place of profound peace. A sanctuary for reflection. It’s part of Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Here numerous priests and sisters rest. Bishop Duane G Hunt and Bishop Joseph Lennox Federal are among them. Their final resting place is overseen by a large crucifix. This crucifix was suggested years ago by Bishop Joseph S Glass.
This All Souls’ Day Mass is especially poignant. Fr Thuy Ha Msgr Colin Bircumshaw Msgr Terrance Fitzgerald Msgr Joseph Mayo and Deacon Lynn Johnson celebrate the Mass. The Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City’s Office of Liturgy organizes these incredible Masses. The interior of the mausoleum is awe-inspiring. Glass panels bathe the space in soft light. Crypts bear names and flowers. American flags mark some final resting places. Folding chairs are arranged in orderly rows. A makeshift altar stands at the end. Two candles and a cross adorn it. A guitarist’s soft music fills the air. A heartfelt homily was delivered by Deacon Lynn. After the service the celebrants greeted parishioners.
John Curtice the cemetery director gave a tour. He shared the cemetery’s history. From the hillside there’s an incredible view. You can see the Salt Lake Valley and the state capital building. The tour included stunning headstones altars and benches. These are spaces where loved ones pay tribute. A garden sits below the mausoleum. A monument honors innocent victims of abortion. A multi-denominational candlelight vigil is held annually. It’s been held since the Roe vs Wade decision.
A gospel verse graces the front wall. It offers comfort and peace. “Come to me all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest.” The words echo Matthew 11:28-30. The burial rite here completes the traditions of Baptism. People from diverse backgrounds find unity in faith. They rest here together at Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery. The Risen Savior Mausoleum stands as a testament to faith hope and enduring love. It’s more than a place of burial. It is a place of profound spiritual significance.