Holy Sepulchre Cemetery and Mausoleum

Holy Sepulchre Cemetery and Mausoleum, located at 26320 Mission Boulevard in Hayward, California, is a historic and multifaceted Catholic burial ground and funeral home operated by the Diocese of Oakland. Established in 1913 as a final resting place for the Catholic community, it holds the distinction of being the first Catholic-run funeral home in the United States. Over the decades, it has grown into a comprehensive memorial park that offers a wide range of services including burial, cremation, mausoleum entombment, and funeral planning, all within a serene and sacred environment.

The cemetery is best known for its striking Mausoleum of the Apostles, a cathedral-style Gothic structure erected in 1929. This architectural landmark features soaring arches, intricate stonework, and a reverent atmosphere that provides both a dignified resting place and a place of reflection for visitors. In addition to traditional in-ground burial plots, the cemetery offers above-ground entombment in the mausoleum, as well as cremation niches and memorial gardens.

In a unique blending of tradition and innovation, Holy Sepulchre planted a three-acre vineyard on its grounds in 2006, dedicated solely to the production of sacramental wine. It is the only vineyard in the United States specifically devoted to this purpose, and the wine is used in Catholic liturgies throughout the diocese. This vineyard symbolizes the cemetery's deep connection to Catholic heritage and its commitment to serving the spiritual as well as the practical needs of the community.

The facility operates as both a cemetery and a full-service funeral home, providing families with seamless care from the moment of death through final disposition. Services include grief support, pre-planning, cremation options, and memorial services tailored to individual beliefs and wishes. The grounds are wheelchair accessible throughout, with accessible parking, restrooms, and seating, ensuring that all visitors can comfortably participate in services and visit loved ones.

Holy Sepulchre also functions as a charity, reflecting the Catholic mission of mercy and compassion. The staff works closely with families to honor their loved ones in a manner that respects their faith and budget. With convenient hours from 8 AM to 6 PM seven days a week, the cemetery and funeral center remain accessible to the community. The property also features a well-maintained memorial park with peaceful landscaping, making it a fitting place for remembrance.

As part of the Catholic Funeral and Cemetery Services network, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery and Mausoleum upholds a tradition of dignity, faith, and service that has been a pillar of the Hayward area for over a century. Whether families seek a traditional Catholic burial or a bespoke memorial, the dedicated team provides compassionate guidance every step of the way.