This page lists upcoming events taking place in the St. Monica Church Community and around the Archdiocese of Seattle. For information on additional Catholics events, retreats, and programs in the greater Seattle area, we recommend checking out the Archdiocese of Seattle Event Webpage and the Sacred Heart Radio Event Webpage. If you have any questions about this page, please contact Tony Brooks, PA for Communication, 206-232-2900 x.131; tony@stmonicami.org.
Summer Youth Events Info Meeting
Summer registration is opening for our HS Youth Conference Retreats! Parents are invited to join Sharon and Kelsey at Sacred Heart Church at 6:30pm on Thursday, February 5, in the Parish Hall to get more info about our upcoming events. We are hoping to have registration finalized by March, so the time to consider is NOW!
Middle School Encounter (MS Youth)
March 21, 2026 | 9:30am–5pm at Kennedy Catholic High School. For students in grades 6-8*: Join hundreds of middle school students from across the archdiocese for an exciting day of inspiring speakers, music, worship and fun. Discover new joy, deepen your faith and be inspired to live boldly— you are Saints in the Making. Click here to learn more!
*Students attend with their parish or school youth group, school or chaperone.
Steubenville Northwest Conference (HS Youth)
Join our HS 6:35 group at this summer’s Steubenville Northwest Conference from July 10-12 in Spokane! Hundreds of teens will gather from across the northwest to grow in faith, connection, prayer, and fellowship with the guidance of speakers like Sister Josephine Garrett, Chris Frank, and more! REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW! Click here for more info and registration.
Lifeteen Summer Camp (MS Youth)
Join Kelsey, our middle school youth minister, on a week-long summer camp "where faith, fun, and unforgettable memories all collide. From messy games to powerful worship nights, every moment is designed to help teens feel seen, known, and loved - and to walk away with a faith that's stronger and a joy that lasts."
Space is limited! The application is open to current 6-8th graders, now through February 28th. Click here for more information and to apply!
Archbishop Etienne authorizes Deacons in the Archdiocese of Seattle to Wear the Roman Collar when in Active Ministry.
On December 26th, the Feast of St. Stephen the Martyr, Archbishop Etienne updated our Archdiocesan policies permitting “permanent deacons to wear gray clerical shirts when actively engaged in ministry in a public setting.” Archdiocesan policy had previous prohibited the wearing of the Roman collar by deacons, except for special situations like street ministry with the express permission of the Vicar for Clergy Office.
Some deacons requested and received that permission. Their experiences ministering on the streets of Seattle raised the idea for this change. “Originally, wearing the Roman collar when on the streets was about ensuring our safety. But then we discovered that wearing the collar while serving those on the margins created the opportunity for encounters that would never happen otherwise. We asked, why not make this possible in other settings like prison ministry, hospital ministry and committals?”
Before considering the proposal, Archbishop asked the Office of the Vicar for Clergy to consult deacons and priests throughout the Archdiocese and to consult with dioceses across the country. After extensive consultation, finding many benefits and few problems, Archbishop approved the policy change.
The new policy permits deacons to wear the Roman collar with a gray shirt when engaged in active ministry. Deacons are encouraged to exercise good judgment wearing of the collar and only do so when it will help their ministry.
In implementing this policy, the Archdiocese of Seattle joins an increasing number of dioceses that permit deacons to wear the Roman collar. Many of those dioceses, but not all, ask their deacons to wear gray shirts.
Most dioceses that implemented this policy found that people became familiar with deacons wearing gray shirts quite quickly. Those with questions about the new policy can consult the Frequently Asked Questions below or contact Deacon Eric Paige at eric.paige@seattlearch.org.
Frequently Asked Questions regarding Deacons Wearing Clerical Attire
Why did Archbishop update the policy? Permanent deacons permitted to wear the Roman collar in street ministry found wearing it significantly improved their ability to connect with people on the margins. By permitting deacons to wear the collar, we hope to increase the ability of deacons to minister to people with pastoral need.
Should deacons wear the Roman collar all the time? No. Deacons should only wear the collar while actively engaged in ministry.
Do deacons have to wear the Roman collar? No. Deacons are permitted to wear a Roman collar when in active ministry, but not required. Some may find that it helps in their ministry and others may not.
Will people confuse deacons with priests now that they can wear a Roman collar? This hasn’t been a problem in other dioceses. Deacons will wear gray shirts with the Roman collar which should help people tell the difference. In cases where a person calls a deacon “father” the deacon can clarify that he is a permanent deacon.
Since deacons are wearing gray shirts with the Roman collar, are priests still permitted to wear gray shirts if they like? Yes. Priests who like to wear a gray clerical shirt are still free to do so.
Who purchases the clerical shirts that deacons wear? Each deacon will purchase their own clerical shirts if they opt to wear them.
When does the policy go into effect? December 26th, 2026 the Feast of St. Stephen the Martyr one of the very first deacons.
Archbishop's 2026 Annual Letter
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Like many of you, I take time at the start of the new year to reflect on the previous year and pray about priorities for the future — not just for myself as your archbishop, but for the archdiocese as well. I take my ministry as your archbishop very seriously. While it can be challenging at times, I am grateful and honored to serve God and you in this way.
This past year has been full — full of grace, of joy, of stress, of hardship, of laughter and many other emotions. I remain incredibly grateful to our priests, deacons and women religious, our staff, lay leaders and volunteers who selflessly serve the people of God. Our Church is not one of buildings and historic artifacts — rather, together we make up the mystical Body of Christ, living our faith in the world each day.
There are clear signs that God is blessing our efforts of proclaiming Christ and forming more disciples to serve in his name. Here is an overview of a few major initiatives from this past year. Click here to read the full 2026 Annual Letter.
Annual Impact Report
Read about the Archdiocese of Seattle’s impact over the last year! Click here to access the whole report.
Called By Name
Do you know someone (aged 16-35) who might be called to the priesthood or religious life? Prayerfully consider those you know who show signs of a call through their love of the Lord, our Church, and their heart of service. Then nominate them at archseattle.org/called-by-name on Called By Name weekend (Jan 31 & Feb 1).
Thank You from Friends of the Needy to Metropolitan Market!
During the month of November, each Metropolitan Market store conducts a Community Care Drive to collect donations for charity partners in their local community. The Mercer Island Metropolitan Market, which donates a vanload of food goods 363 days a year to the Friends of the Needy (FON) ministry at Saint Monica, was #1 among all of their stores and raised an incredible $19,694 towards sponsoring “Friends of the Needy” work.
This most significant and outstanding donation enabled FON to distribute funds to the following 501-C charities: St. Martin de Pores, The INN, Compass Housing, St. Francis House, REST, Mercer Island Youth and Family services, Jubilee Reach, Porchlight, Sophia Way, and Operation Nightwatch.
These shelters and charities used this money for: food, warm clothing, coffee, toiletries, bus tickets, help with utility bills, and maintenance equipment. As an example, St. Martins gave each guest a waterproof backpack which included a winter jacket, insulated gloves, and a flannel shirt.
The steering committee, and all volunteers of FON, wish to express sincere appreciation to our parishioners who shop at Metropolitan Market and to the members of Metropolitan Market for providing Friends of the Needy the opportunity to help the less fortunate of our brothers and sisters in need!
Sincerely, Bob Kessler, Karen Zimmer, Jan Kentnor, Frank Mills (Friends of the Needy Leadership Team)
PREPARES Appeal
This coming weekend, February 7-8, our parish will participate in the statewide PREPARES Open Your Heart Collection.
The PREPARES (Pregnancy & Parenting Support) ministry is a nurturing, parish-based response to mothers and fathers who, regardless of religious belief, have chosen life: the promise of support and care from pregnancy to their child's fifth birthday. Your gift, no matter the amount, will have a real impact in fulfilling the promise to families in need to provide life-affirming, life-changing support.
The program was initiated in 2014 by the bishops of Washington state to offer parishes the opportunity to live out Catholic teachings about the value of all human life and the preferential option for the poor. Since then, statewide, the program has been adopted by 197 parishes, and in 2025 trained 1,070 Volunteers and Companions providing 27,218 family encounters, offering one-on-one companionship, children's essentials, and social and educational events for young parents. To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit preparesforlife.org.
Our Lady of Fatima Pilgrim Statue Parish Visitation
The National Pilgrim Statue of Our Lady of Fatima will be visiting our parish on Wednesday, February 11. Please join us from 6:30PM to 8:00PM for a brief talk by the Statue Custodian, Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Act of Consecration Prayer, and Litany of Our Lady. Discover Our Lady of Fatima’s message for peace and her call for you individually – and the whole world.
Upcoming Funeral
The Funeral Mass for Cleo Nelson will be on Thursday, February 12, at 11AM, at St. Monica Catholic Church.
Young Catholic Professionals — Executive Speaker Series
Looking for a community with a professional focus grounded in Catholic values? Your 20s and 30s can be a confusing and lonely time, but they don't have to be. Come and see. Attend a Young Catholic Professionals (YCP) event and join like-minded, mission-driven peers to find God in all things and seek excellence and joy in every area of your life. YCP brings together young workers and seasoned business professionals in a variety of programs to foster Catholic identity, encourage community, and inspire action.
YCP’s next Executive Speaker event is on Thursday, February 12, at St. Monica Catholic Church. The guest executive speaker will be our very own Deacon Frank!
The event is free and open to those in their 20s and 30s. Click here for more information and to register.
Divorce and Beyond
Gift yourself the experience of healing from divorce. Are you trying to get past the pain of divorce? Are you feeling “stuck” in pain and hurt? St. Louise Catholic Church in Bellevue is thrilled to be offering “Divorce & Beyond”. Whether you have been divorced for a long time or just recently divorced, you deserve to experience peace and joy again! This is an excellent 10 week Christian based program of healing and recovery from divorce. Interested? We will meet on Mondays, 6:30-8PM at St Louise Parish, beginning, February 16th. The cost is $15 and scholarships are available. If you’d like more information or would like to sign up, contact Dave Gehrig at 425-214-5466 or email divorceandbeyond@stlouise.org.
Lunar New Year Celebration!
The Seattle Chinese Catholic Community would like to invite you to celebrate the Lunar New Year at St. Monica Catholic Church on Sunday, February 22, 2026. Archbishop Paul D. Etienne will concelebrate the 1pm Sunday Mass with Fr. Kurt Nagel and Fr. Joseph Tran, followed by the Ancestral Veneration and a reception. Everyone is welcome to bring a dessert or a snack to share.
Walking with Purpose Lenten Special!
The Walking with Purpose, Women’s Bible Study group will soon be starting a new book. Can’t make the normal morning meeting time? Just for Lent, we are going to offer both the normal Thursday morning meetings and an additional evening meetings option! A perfect time to increase your prayer life during this special season. Living in the Father’s Love will be a powerful study to discover just how much the Father loves us! Plan on it!
Registration and more information about the options for this Lenten Special will be provided in next weekend’s parish communications.
St. Monica School Auction
Honey, get ready to grab your sequins and fluff that hair sky-high—because the St. Monica School Auction is shaping up to be a night that will make Miss Dolly herself wink with approval. All are invited -- Parish, school, and community members who love a good cause! Tickets can be purchased here Registration. We so look forward to seeing you there!!
What can you do to support the big event?! Glad you asked! It's time to turn on that Dolly charm and wrangle a fabulous auction item or experience that can be auctioned off at the big event! A smile, a sparkle, and a “would you mind?” can work miracles! Vacation homes, and dining/entertainment experiences generate the most excitement and we would be so glad to have your support! It’s for the best cause we can think of – our kids! Have something in mind already?! Gosh, that’s incredible! You can log it here Item Donation
Also, do you know a small business that would like to sponsor the event in exchange for gratitude and visibility within our amazing community?! Please have them reach out to Haley at hhankins@stmonicasea.org or visit Sponsorship 2026 to learn more!
With much appreciation from your auction team,
Marybeth Bohm – Principal, St. Monica Catholic School
Father Nagel – Pastor, St. Monica and Sacred Heart Catholic Churches
Haley Hankins – Development Director, St. Monica Catholic School
Megan Radzevych - Production and Video Lead
Victoria Frank - Procurement Lead
Elizabeth Donaldson - Website Lead
Justyna King - Silent Auction Lead
Shaye Mitchell, Shine Spak and Vivian Sit - Fulfillment Leads
Ashley Hay and Shannon Schell - Floral Co-Leads
Olivia Lippens - Legacy Award Lead
2026 Sponsors already helping to make a positive impact:
- Carv and Sara Sue Zwingle
- Joe and Elaine Shephard
ASCEND Eucharistic Revival
This moment is a time to refresh and renew our hearts in hope and ignite a deeper love for the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The ASCEND Eucharistic Revival is a movement dedicated to renewing love of and devotion to Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Rooted in prayer, teaching and worship, the event seeks to draw individuals and communities deeper into the mystery of God’s love by better understanding the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Through encounters, formation and sacraments, ASCEND inspires the faithful to live and carry Eucharistic joy in this world. By lifting hearts and minds to God, the revival fosters unity, love of neighbor, healing, and a renewed sense of mission in the church today.
Mark your calendars for May 16, 2026 and join us in drawing deeper into the mystery of Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist. For details on this special one-day event, to sign up for alerts, volunteer, and/or support ASCEND through donations, please visit
www.ascendeucharisticrevival.church.
2026 Catholic Calendars
Stop by the main church vestibule to pick up your personal 2026 Catholic Calendar. These calendars were provided for the St. Monica Community by Flintoft’s Funeral Home and Crematory.
Washington State Catholic Conference
The Washington State Catholic Conference (WSCC) is the common voice of the Catholic Bishops of the Archdiocese of Seattle, the Diocese of Spokane, and the Diocese of Yakima. They encourage advocacy in public policy as we work together for the common good to create a society that recognizes the dignity of every human person. Visit wacatholics.org to learn more.
Friday Evening Adoration
Don’t forget Friday Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions are offered every Friday, 6PM-7PM in the church. End your work week and start off your weekend right by spending some time in the church adoring Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament!
It’s much more than just Coffee & Donuts!
Don’t pass on the opportunity to join us every Sunday after Mass for an hour of Coffee & Donuts. More than simply an opportunity for a sugary treat and a cup of coffee, this time is an important chance for each of us to form deeper connections with the other members of our parish community. We encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and introduce yourself to someone you don’t know. Want to help with Coffee & Donuts?
Feeling too ill for Mass?
The general obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation is excused for those who are ill or are homebound. If you are unable to attend Mass for valid reason, we encourage you to make use of our Mass Livestream which can be accessed on our Livestream page.
Knights of Columbus Meetings
Knights of Columbus want to invite all men of the Parish to join them at their Council meetings held on the first Monday of every month. The meetings are held at 6:30PM in the Parish Office dining room (accessed via the front office entrance). For more information, please visit the Knights of Columbus page.
Legion of Mary Meetings
The Legion of Mary group meets every Tuesday morning after the 7:45AM Mass in the St. Augustine Room. Legion of Mary is a world-wide movement of lay people, who propose making Faith the goal of their life in an effort to achieve personal sanctity. The virtue of Holiness in the life of the members of the Legion is promoted under the influence of Mary and the Holy Spirit. This becomes the source of inspiration for Legion work, which is under the direction of our Pastor, Fr. Nagel. He has asked the Legion to take Holy Communion to the homebound, providing the Real Presence of Jesus to them. For more information, please visit the Legion of Mary page.
Cooking for the Homeless
Every Tuesday, volunteers of the Friends of the Needy ministry meet at St. Monica’s kitchen at 10:30AM to cook a four-course hot dinner for later delivery. Want to volunteer? Come for an hour or the afternoon, every Tuesday or as often as you like. Experience the joyful camaraderie in the kitchen from preparing the ingredients to washing the dishes. For more information, please visit the Friends of the Needy page.
Rosary Makers
Rosary Makers is a wonderful group of people who get together every week on Wednesdays in the St. Augustine Room to make Rosaries for the Catholic missions. All are welcome to come and make rosaries or gather the materials to work at home. For more information, please contact the parish office.
Bringing Holy Communion to the Homebound
Every Wednesday morning immediately after the 7:45AM Mass, members of the Legion of Mary bring the Communion to homebound parishioners who are unable to attend Mass in person. If you or a loved one are physically unable to attend Mass and would like to receive Communion, please contact the parish office to receive more information on this ministry.
Friends of the Needy Drivers Needed
Is there anyone who would not help their brother or sister? Christ has said, “the less fortunate are our bothers and sisters”. We are in need of 5 more drivers to help feed the 12 different shelter and food banks that we now deliver food to from our most generous donor Metropolitan Market!
If you could spare just 2 or 3 hours once a month that would fulfill our obligation to feed the hungry. If you volunteer you can choose the day of the month that you would drive each month.
