Sankovich & Associates was founded to support dioceses, parishes, and cemetery systems in strengthening the ministry of Catholic burial. The firm brings more than 35 years of national experience in on site evaluation, leadership formation, operational review, and long term planning for Catholic cemeteries. Its work has included comprehensive assessments of more than 20 (arch)diocesan cemetery programs throughout the United States, each resulting in detailed reports, documented issues, and practical recommendations for improvement. In addition, the firm has conducted more than 750 parish cemetery on site evaluations in 12 other (arch)dioceses.
The firm’s approach is grounded in the Catholic cemetery tradition, the Corporal Work of Mercy of Burying the Dead, and the pastoral responsibility entrusted to diocesan leadership. Sankovich & Associates provides guidance that integrates theology, pastoral care, operational standards, and fiscal accountability. This combination has proven essential for diocesan officials who supervise cemetery directors but often have limited background in cemetery ministry. The firm has also developed a series of instructional manuals to support recruitment, training, and continuing education for employees in diocesan cemetery programs and for employees and volunteers who serve in parish cemeteries.
Approach and Commitment
The firm’s work is collaborative, practical, and rooted in the lived experience of Catholic cemetery ministry. Evaluations are conducted to ensure accurate understanding of local practices, staff responsibilities, and community expectations. Reports are written with clarity and precision, offering diocesan leadership a reliable foundation for decision making. Follow up support is provided as needed to assist directors and supervisors in implementing recommendations and strengthening their programs.
Sankovich & Associates remains committed to advancing the pastoral mission of Catholic cemeteries and to supporting diocesan leaders who carry responsibility for this essential ministry. Its work continues to help dioceses preserve Catholic identity, strengthen operations, and serve families with dignity, compassion, and faith.
Joseph B. Sankovich & Associates is dedicated to supporting parish and diocesan leaders in the sacred work of cemetery ministry. Our consulting practice is grounded in decades of national experience, shaped by a contemplative approach, and committed to excellence in both pastoral care and operational practice.
We have served more than forty dioceses and worked on site in hundreds of parish cemeteries across the United States. Our work brings clarity to complex programs, strengthens stewardship, and helps communities build sustainable cemetery operations that honor the dignity of every person.
We believe cemetery ministry is a profound expression of faith, culture, and pastoral responsibility. Our mission is to help leaders carry this work with confidence, compassion, and a deep respect for the sacred nature of holy ground.
Cemetery Consulting Services
Sankovich & Associates provides a comprehensive range of services designed to strengthen parish and diocesan cemetery leadership and ensure long term program stability. The firm’s current concentration is support of parish cemeteries, where most Catholic burial activity occurs and where resources, staffing, and training often require structured guidance.
Services include evaluations that include record keeping, public relations guidance, maintenance analysis, inventory and development planning, financial and accounting reviews. They also include training and formation for parish employees and volunteers as well as assistance with parish cemetery organization, governance, and long term planning.
In addition to parish support, the firm provides services to diocesan cemetery programs, including:
Comprehensive evaluations of diocesan cemetery systems Leadership coaching and director formation Operational and administrative assessments Assistance with hiring and training new diocesan cemetery directors
Each engagement is tailored to the needs of the parish or diocese and results in clear, actionable recommendations that support both immediate improvement and long term sustainability.