Calvary Cemetery in St. Paul is one of five Catholic cemeteries in the Twin Cities participating in a scavenger hunt through Aug. 31. DAVE HRBACEK | THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

A scavenger hunt designed as a fun and interesting way to learn more about cemeteries and ways people honor their loved ones is underway through Aug. 31 at Mendota Heights-based Catholic Cemeteries’ five cemeteries in the Twin Cities.

From dawn to dusk, people can visit some or all of its five cemeteries — Calvary in St. Paul, Gethsemane in New Hope, Resurrection in Mendota Heights, and St. Anthony’s and St. Mary’s in Minneapolis — to find and photograph 15 specific symbols, many of which are Christian, on grave markers. Participants are asked to complete an online entry form and upload the photos for verification at Catholic Cemeteries’ website catholic-cemeteries.org.  

Rules are posted on the website. The first three people who submit the most symbols listed by the deadline, along with appropriate ID, will win a $50, $25 or $10 Target gift card.  

Grave marker symbols and their meanings represent the individuals and how loved ones honor them, said Cindy Keller, director of corporate operations for Catholic Cemeteries. Symbols are often a nod to their faith and values, and provide an opportunity for others to learn the meaning behind them, such as a peacock or anchor, which may not be obvious to many people today, Keller said.  

According to a list on the Cemeteries’ website, an anchor is a symbol of hope in future existence. The “eyes” in a peacock’s tail feathers symbolize the all-seeing God and, in some interpretations, the Church. A peacock drinking from a vase is a symbol of a Christian believer drinking from the waters of eternal life. 

Meanings behind all 15 symbols and more are listed on the Cemeteries’ website under “News & Resources.” Click into “Resources,” then “Additional Resources” and scroll down to “Christian/Memorialization Symbols.”  

“We thought this would be fun for families and a chance to learn more about the cemeteries,” Keller said. It’s also a way to see the cemeteries’ beauty, including imagery used on grave markers and monuments, she said. 

It’s not unusual for family members and friends of the deceased to spend time in cemeteries, Keller said, some bringing a lawn chair. On significant days, such as a birthday or anniversary, loved ones may gather to tell stories and pray, she said. And sometimes raise a toast.