Catholic Cemeteries Offer Free Open House at Two Bergen County Locations

Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark is offering a unique opportunity for families to explore two of its cemeteries in Bergen County, New Jersey, over the course of a weekend. The events, scheduled for September 26 and 27, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., are free and open to the public, with no appointment necessary.

Both cemeteries are participating in the Special Jubilee Year of Saint Francis, marking the 800th anniversary of his death. This year is intended to inspire families to reflect on their decisions and ensure their wishes are known, while also providing relief to loved ones during times of loss.

At Maryrest Cemetery & Mausoleum, located at 770 Darlington Avenue in Mahwah, families can experience a blend of traditional and modern cemetery grounds. The property features a full chapel mausoleum, magnificent stained-glass windows, marble crypts, and glass and marble cremation niches. Additionally, Maryrest offers New Jersey's first Catholic Natural/Green Burial Section, marked by wildflowers and boulder memorialization, as well as new gazebo family estates for those seeking committal space amidst the grounds.

Christ the King Cemetery, situated at 980 Huron Road in Franklin Lakes, presents a rural, park-like setting. The cemetery is anchored by a towering bronze statue of Christ the King, with traditional plots featuring minimalist flat markers, Amish-style gazebo committal sections, and outdoor columbariums. Recently, Christ the King added a new Cremorial Section, which includes winding paths, blooming trees, and lush greenery surrounding flat cremation markers for families who prefer a simpler, more understated resting place.

During the open house events, memorial planning advisors will be on-site to guide families through various burial, cremation, and memorialization options. While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are recommended given the anticipated high turnout.

For those interested in learning more about the services offered by Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark, the website (rcancem.org) provides detailed information. The cemeteries serve the communities of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Middlesex, and Union counties, providing burial, cremation, and memorialization services rooted in the Catholic faith.