Located in Middle Village, Queens, New York, St. John’s Cemetery stands as a significant landmark and a place of peaceful reflection. Established in 1881 by Bishop John Loughlin, the first Bishop of Brooklyn, St. John’s Cemetery NY encompasses a vast and picturesque 190 acres. This expansive cemetery provides a serene final resting place and holds historical importance within the Diocese of Brooklyn.
Within the grounds of St. John’s Cemetery, Section 056 is particularly notable. This section is dedicated to Diocesan Priests and members of various religious congregations, highlighting the cemetery’s deep connection to the Catholic Church and its clergy.
The administration of St. John’s Cemetery transitioned in 2007 when ownership was transferred from the Diocese of Brooklyn to the Saint John’s Cemetery Corporation. This corporation now oversees all cemeteries associated with the Brooklyn Diocese, including prominent cemeteries such as Holy Cross Cemetery in Brooklyn, Mount St. Mary in Flushing, and St. Charles/Resurrection Cemetery in Farmingdale. This consolidation ensures consistent management and care across these important burial grounds.
Understanding Cemetery Rules and Regulations
Like all cemeteries, St. John’s Cemetery NY maintains specific rules and regulations to ensure a respectful and orderly environment. These guidelines are in place to balance the needs of visitors with the necessity of preserving the cemetery’s tranquility and appearance. While cemetery management recognizes the emotional nature of grieving and remembrance, these rules are essential for maintaining the high standards of St. John’s Cemetery. For detailed information, visitors can consult the Planting and Decoration Regulations.
Regulations at St. John’s Cemetery also address decorations left at gravesites. While the cemetery encourages remembrance and honoring loved ones, decoration guidelines are enforced to uphold the cemetery’s peaceful and beautiful atmosphere for all visitors.
Key rules regarding visitor conduct and decorations include:
- The maximum vehicle speed within the cemetery is 10 miles per hour.
- Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times while on cemetery grounds.
- Animals are not permitted within the cemetery.
- Decorations such as ornaments, statues, shells, Christmas decorations, glass containers, barriers, and similar items are not allowed on graves, plots, or memorials and will be removed by cemetery authorities without prior notice.
- St. John’s Cemetery is not responsible for any decorations or plants left at gravesites.
- Following burial services, cemetery management reserves the right to remove and dispose of floral arrangements.
- Photography is not permitted anywhere within the cemetery.
- Picking flowers or disturbing plants and shrubbery is strictly prohibited.
- St. John’s Cemetery retains the right to remove any deteriorated decorations to maintain the overall aesthetic quality of the cemetery.
- Emblems of non-religious organizations are generally not permitted on graves or plots; however, emblems for police and fire departments may be allowed at the discretion of cemetery authorities.
Visiting St. John’s Cemetery NY offers a chance to connect with history and find solace in a serene environment. Respecting the rules and regulations ensures that this important space remains a dignified and peaceful place for all who visit and remember their loved ones.
