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Parish Policies

Visitor Sign-Ins

As a security measure we are now asking all guests to sign-in at either in the school office or the parish office when visiting during the week. It’s a quick and simple process and will help us to maintain a safe and secure environment for everyone.


Narthex Monitor 

You may have noticed the large new television monitor mounted in the Narthex. This monitor is replace worn-out poster stands and display tables in the Narthex whenever possible by having scrolling information on the monitor instead. If your ministry has something that you would like to have included on the monitor, please contact Tim Bush in the parish office.


Display Tables in the Narthex

In the instances when there are display or sign-up tables in the Narthex, they should not be placed in between the pillars in the Narthex. Instead, they should remain against the wall beneath the monitor in order to allow for ease of traffic flow between Masses.


Photography Policy

Baptisms, Confirmations, First Communions, and weddings are golden photo opportunities. They are transformative events to be rightfully treasured in memory. There are many moments throughout the course of these special days that offer families and friends the chance to take pictures. The crucial question is whether it is appropriate to do so during the actual reception of a sacrament.

  • It is expected that photography during the mass and special events be limited and discreet. 
  • Photographers should be aware of the sacred environment, being careful not to take photos or move in a way that distracts the participants in the congregation. 
  • No photos may be taken during exposition of the Blessed Sacrament (Eucharistic Adoration) or liturgy of the Eucharist. 
  • Photographers are never allowed in the sanctuary or on altar steps. 
  • Parishioners should not leave their pew during mass; photos should be taken from the pew. 
  • No tripods should be used or set up during mass. 
  • Flash photography is permitted before and after the mass only. 
  • Photographers are not permitted to stand in the main aisle of the church. 
  • Special guidelines are available at the main office. 


St. Monica Child Safety Guidelines

St. Monica Parish Pastoral Council and St. Monica Catholic School promotes that children are an integral part of our parish life, and as such, their presence is important as a continued witness of God’s love. Their safety must be of paramount importance for all. The St. Monica Parish Pastoral Council  and St. Monica Catholic School has adopted the following child safety guidelines:

  • All Adults who come in direct contact, or are in supervision of persons under the age of 18, must have completed the Archdiocesan Safe Parish program and complete a background check. To complete the Safe Parish program, following this link: Safe Parish
  • Adult Supervision: Persons under 18 years of age must be under direct, visual supervision by a parent, guardian, or other designated caregiver (adult, hired sitter, or older sibling over the age of 18) at all times unless they are in a program led by trained and background-checked adults. Trips to the bathroom, especially for younger children, should be with a parent or legal guardian.
  • Inside the Building: Children should not run through hallways, classrooms, or gathering areas at any time. Small children may take older adults by surprise, causing hot coffee spills and other accidental injuries. Babysitting in another room or in the Narthex by older brothers or sisters is not permitted. Parents and guardians are responsible for coaching their children about this hazard and correcting improper behaviors. At Mass or any worship service, children should be sitting with an adult who is responsible for their safety. Running in the church or daily mass chapel, especially up and down the aisles, near the altar, or in the back of church, in and around the Narthex, baptismal font is dangerous and distracting to those trying to worship. If your child must leave Mass, an adult should accompany that child, particularly for younger children. Please be attentive and encourage good behavior in our worship space, this can be part of your prayer as a parent. 
  • Outside the Building: Children 12 and under may not be left unattended outside the church building, on the playground, on the front or back lawn, or anywhere else on church property. Children playing outside without direct adult supervision are a safety concern due to the number of vehicles entering and exiting the parking lot. Parents should never assume that someone else is watching their children. 
  • Religious Education/Youth Ministry Programs: Criminal background checks and Safe Parish training are required of all educators and volunteers working with youth. 
  • General Classroom Safety Guideline: There must be two Safe Parish trained adults in the classroom during all religious education sessions both and on off campus. Class leaders and volunteers will notify the Director of Religious Education (DRE) if their group is outside of the building.
  • In Case of Injury: If there is a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately. Contact the Director of Religious Education (DRE) immediately if a child is injured or ill. A report will be filed with the DRE documenting any accident. 
  • Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation in providing a safe, prayerful environment for everyone who worships at St. Monica Parish. 
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