About St. Monica · Mercer Island, Washington
St. Monica Catholic Church is a vibrant parish located on Mercer Island, Washington, serving a diverse community with a strong emphasis on faith formation, social outreach, and spiritual growth. Founded in 1960, the parish was built through the collective effort of its early families and continues to thrive through ministries like the Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul, and the Emmaus Youth Ministry. The parish also hosts a Chinese-speaking community and offers bilingual Masses, reflecting its inclusive spirit. It is part of the Archdiocese of Seattle and is preparing to merge with Sacred Heart Parish into one canonical parish.
- Established
- 1960
- Patron
- St. Monica
- Diocese
- Archdiocese of Seattle
Why belong here
Join a parish that fosters spiritual growth, active faith, and community fellowship through ministries like the Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul, and Emmaus Youth Ministry. Participate in diverse worship services, including bilingual Masses, and contribute to outreach efforts that serve the local and global community. The parish offers a welcoming environment for all ages and backgrounds, from preschool to adult faith formation.
Mass times at St. Monica
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- Monday - Saturday: 7:15AM-7:35AM
- Friday: 6:00PM-7:00PM
- Saturday: 3:30PM-4:30PM
- Sunday (Chinese): 12:30PM-12:50PM
Adoration times
- Friday: 6:00PM-7:00PM (In the church)
- Daily: 24 hours a day, every day of the week, except during Mass
History
St. Monica Parish was founded in 1960 after a building program initiated by Father John A. Walsh, who served as the founding pastor. The parish was established on property purchased in 1950 by Archbishop Connolly. The first Mass was celebrated in the new church on June 26, 1960. The parish grew rapidly, with nearly 100 new families joining in 1960. Early community activities included a choir, a square dance club that became St. Monica’s Social Club, and a parish dinner that became a fundraising success. Father Walsh was reassigned in 1977 and passed away less than five months after leaving, leaving a legacy of spiritual inspiration.
Ministries
The parish offers a wide variety of groups and ministries to serve others, grow in faith, and find fellowship. These include Nightwatch, Friends of the Needy, Knights of Columbus, St. Vincent de Paul, Legion of Mary, Liturgical Ministry, CYO Athletics, Monica's Table, Walking With Purpose, Bible Studies, Coffee & Donuts, Groundskeeping Ministry, Music Ministry, Partners in the Gospel, and Emmaus Youth Ministry.
Sacraments
The parish offers all seven sacraments: Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation, Marriage, Holy Orders, Anointing of the Sick, and Becoming Catholic (OCIA/OCIC).
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Father John A. Walsh1960-1977
Founding pastor; reassigned in 1977; died less than five months after leaving.