The Third Mount Zion Baptist Church Cemetery.

Rules, Regulations, and Policies

To ensure that our cemetery remains a sacred, orderly, and respectful resting place for all who are laid to rest, The Third Mount Zion Baptist Church has established the following rules, regulations, and policies. These guidelines are designed to preserve the dignity of the grounds
while maintaining uniformity in appearance and care.

Eligibility and Burial Authorization

  • Burials in the church cemetery are reserved for:
  • Members of The Third Mount Zion Baptist Church
  • Immediate family members of active church members
  • Individuals approved by church leadership
  • All burial arrangements must be approved and scheduled through the church office prior to interment.

Plot Cost and Eligibility

Active Members in Good Standing

  •  “Good standing” is determined by consistent attendance, active participation, support of church ministries, and faithful financial contributions.
  • Members in good standing are eligible to receive one cemetery plot at no cost.
  • Members in good standing may use:
  • The sanctuary for funeral services at no charge.
  • The fellowship hall for funeral services at no charge.
  • Only active members may utilize the fellowship hall for funerals.

Inactive Members

  • Inactive members are individuals who at one time joined Third Mount Zion but no longer support the church financially and/or through regular attendance.
  • Inactive members may purchase a cemetery plot for $1,800.
  • Use of the sanctuary for funeral services is available for a $500 rental fee.

Non-Members

  • Non-members may purchase a cemetery plot for $2,500.
  • Use of the sanctuary for funeral services is available for a $600 rental fee.
  • All non-member requests are subject to review and approval by church leadership.

Plot Assignment and Records

  • All cemetery plots are assigned by the Cemetery Committee.
  • The church will maintain accurate burial records, including:
    o Full name
    o Date of birth
    o Date of death
    o Assigned plot location

Headstones and Markers

  • All headstones and markers must receive prior approval before installation.
  • Only flat or standard upright markers are permitted.
  • A vault or grave liner must be used for all interments in the church cemetery. This requirement is in place to prevent ground settling and collapse.
  • No casket shall be interred without an outer burial container.

Decorations and Upkeep

  • Fresh or artificial flowers may be placed on graves and must be kept neat and orderly.
  • Seasonal decorations are permitted but must be removed typically within 30 days.
  • The church reserves the right to remove any items that are:
    o Damaged
    o Unsightly
    o Not in compliance with cemetery policies

Prohibited Items

  • The following items are not permitted:
    o Fencing or borders
    o Gravel or rocks
    o Statues or large ornaments
    o Any objects that obstruct mowing or create safety hazards
  • No permanent plantings (trees, bushes, shrubs, etc.) may be added without prior written approval.

Maintenance Responsibilities

  • The church will oversee regular grounds keeping and mowing of the cemetery.
  • Families are responsible for the maintenance and care of headstones and markers.

Conduct

  • The cemetery is a place of reverence, remembrance, and reflection.
  • Visitors are expected to conduct themselves respectfully at all times.
    • Alcohol, loud music, and inappropriate behavior are strictly prohibited on cemetery
    grounds.

Amendments

  • The Third Mount Zion Baptist Church reserves the right to amend these policies at any time.
  • Notice will be provided to affected parties when changes are made.
  • Cemetery address: 13121 Woodford Road, Woodford, Virginia 22580

Contact Information

For questions or further clarification regarding cemetery policies, please contact the church.

Phone: 804-632-6039
Email: tmzchurch@gmail.com

Sincerely,
The Third Mount Zion Baptist Church