What is a consecrated burial ground?
The definition of consecrated ground is “ground that has been made or declared sacred or holy, and is therefore suitable for Christian burial” (Collins Dictionary). This practice dates back for centuries and is grounded in Church of England law, where a consecrated burial ground was usually a churchyard blessed according to the rites of the Church.
Consecration still takes place today and may be favoured as a burial option by Christians. It can also offer an added layer of reassurance for families who wish to know that the graves of their loved ones will not be disturbed in years to come. But unconsecrated grounds are also protected under English Law, and cemeteries and natural burial grounds welcome people of all faiths.
How is unconsecrated land protected?
To the extent to which it’s possible, both consecrated and unconsecrated burial grounds are protected and burials seen as permanent. If the custodians of a churchyard, cemetery or burial ground wish to carry out any developments to the land, they must apply for a licence from the Secretary of State or, in relation to consecrated ground, a faculty issued by the Church.
Regardless of where they are buried, human remains may not be disturbed without specific authority. Section 25 of the Burial Act 1857 makes it an offence to remove remains without a valid licence or faculty. Consecrated land is seen to have the highest level of protection, with applications for a faculty to authorise exhumation granted only in special circumstances.
It has been acknowledged that the law needs reforming as burial grounds reach capacity and new means of disposal become available. To this end, the Law Commission is carrying out a three-phase project called Burial, Cremation, and New Funerary Methods. This will include a review of the laws governing burials and cremation and the creation of a regulatory framework for safe and dignified new processes. Phase one will look at the law governing different types of burial grounds and crematoria, including consideration of grave reuse.
Can cemeteries be consecrated?
Local authority cemeteries usually have no religious connections, but sections of a cemetery may be consecrated. Those with religious or spiritual beliefs may choose to be buried in a consecrated section of a cemetery or to invite a person of their choosing to lead a religious service and/or bless the grave.
Can natural burial grounds be consecrated?
At the time of writing, we are only aware of two consecrated natural burial grounds in England – Barton Woodland Burial Ground and St Albans Woodland Burial Trust. This means they are subject to Church of England consecration rules, which offer the highest level of protection available under English Law.
The vast majority of natural burial grounds are not consecrated and are subject to the rules of the Burial Act 1857. But those with religious or spiritual beliefs are welcome to invite a person of their choosing to bless the burial plot or area. This is usually done on the same day as the funeral service, but can also be done beforehand.
This ensures that natural burial grounds are available to all, regardless of belief or background.
Where can I find a natural burial ground near me?
We hope this article has helped explain what is meant by a consecrated burial ground. If you would like to know more about natural burial, you may wish to search our directory of natural burial grounds to find a site near you and arrange a visit.
Please note that Eco Endings launched in 2024 and we are still growing our directory, so if you can’t find a site nearby you may also wish to check the Natural Death Centre list of natural burial grounds across the country.
