Conceived out of the growing lack of Catholic burial space, construction of Calvary Mausoleum was begun in 1973 with the construction of some 3,500 crypts.  By 1978 it became necessary to add an additional 4,000 more spaces, and in 1982 plans were begun to design an even larger Mausoleum to include another 6,000 crypts.  Construction of this beautiful Catholic burial facility was begun in June, 1984 and took 2 ½ years to complete.

The Mausoleum features a 27 foot diameter, 75 foot high glass-dome atrium.  The atrium allows the natural sunlight to enter into the mausoleum, providing a feeling of warmth and openness.

The floor of this rotunda serves as the Chapel where we celebrated the dedication mass as well as where committal services take place at funerals.  The floor was designed expressly for Calvary Mausoleum by Mr. Benoit Gilsoul.  Featured in the atrium is a bronze statue of St. Michael the Archangel which was also designed by Mr. Gilsoul and cast in bronze in Ortisei, Italy. 

It was fitting that St. Michael was chosen to be the feature art work as the archangel Michael stands as the defender of heaven against Satan.  With that in mind, the statue stands as a symbol of protection to all who enter the Mausoleum, reminding us that this beautiful Mausoleum as well as all Catholic Cemeteries is only a temporary place housing the bodies of all who were faithful to Our Lord’s teachings in their lifetimes.

From the program of the dedication of Unit 3 on September 26, 1987.