St. Monica Catholic Church
A landmark limestone church from 1925, featuring a modern hospitality center by Frank Gehry, known for its vibrant community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Quieter for reflection
St. Monica Catholic Church
Best Time
Quieter for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A landmark limestone church from 1925, featuring a modern hospitality center by Frank Gehry, known for its vibrant community.
"A beautiful church building with a lively, welcoming community and striking architecture."
Check Mass Schedule Online
Always verify mass times on the official website before visiting.
Parking Availability
Good parking is available, especially for services.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Limestone Architecture
Main Sanctuary
Admire the grandeur of this 1925 limestone church, a beautiful example of traditional Catholic architecture.
Frank Gehry Hospitality Center
Adjoining Building
Experience the unique, modern design of the hospitality center, a contrast to the historic church.
Vibrant Community Mass
Main Sanctuary
Witness a lively Mass with music and clapping, reflecting a welcoming and engaged congregation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mass Times & Services
Wedding Inquiries
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Any recs for a warm, left-leaning Catholic or Episcopal church in/near the South Bay for my 74 yo mom?
Check Mass Schedule Online
Always verify mass times on the official website before visiting.
Parking Availability
Good parking is available, especially for services.
Modern Hospitality Center
Don't miss the contrasting modern design by Frank Gehry.
Welcoming Atmosphere
Many find the parish warm and inclusive, with a diverse congregation.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Mass Schedule Online
Always verify mass times on the official website before visiting.
Parking Availability
Good parking is available, especially for services.
Modern Hospitality Center
Don't miss the contrasting modern design by Frank Gehry.
Welcoming Atmosphere
Many find the parish warm and inclusive, with a diverse congregation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Monica Catholic Church is praised for its stunning architecture, both the historic limestone sanctuary and the modern Frank Gehry-designed hospitality center. Visitors often highlight the vibrant and welcoming community, particularly during lively Masses with music and singing. While the progressive worship style is appreciated by many, some may find it differs from more conservative Catholic traditions.
"A beautiful church building, I highly recommend visiting. If you are new to the Catholic faith (convert) this may be a good church to get into. They sing and clap during the Mass with a full band. The priest ad-libbed a few times during Mass. An example would be for the concluding prayer. He didn't say let us pray and no one stood up for it. The Eucharistic prayer was said correctly, but this is definitely not a conservative church community. Still, I believe the Mass was valid, the people participating were kind, and the church building was beautiful. I would visit again for a tour."
Dane LaFleur
"St. Monica Catholic Church, located in Santa Monica, California, has a rich and inspiring history. Established in 1926, the church was founded to serve the growing Catholic community in the area. Named after St. Monica, the mother of St. Augustine, it reflects her legacy of patience and prayerful dedication.
Over the years, St. Monica has been a spiritual center not only for the local community but also for numerous visitors. Its architecture, blending traditional and modern elements, symbolizes the timeless values of faith. The church has played a key role in supporting education, charitable work, and cultural events, serving as a beacon of Catholic tradition in the bustling city of Santa Monica.
In recent decades, the parish has undergone several renovations to accommodate the growing number of parishioners, ensuring that it remains a vibrant center of worship and community activity. Today, St. Monica Catholic Church continues to be a place of spiritual nourishment, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its rich history and welcoming atmosphere."
BankerOnTheMove_BOM
"We attended a funeral service this morning for Ambassador Frank Baxter. The most gorgeous cathedral on the West Side. Magnificent send off for a remarkable man who touched so many lives. God rest his soul. Good Parking too."
Angelle Grace Wacker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Monica Catholic Church is located in Santa Monica, California. It's accessible by car, and reviews mention good parking availability. Public transportation options may also be available; checking local transit routes is recommended.
Yes, reviews indicate that parking is available and generally good, especially for attending services.
The church is located in Santa Monica, California. For the exact address, it's best to check their official website or a reliable mapping service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to attend Mass. St. Monica Catholic Church is a place of worship, and all are welcome to attend services.
Mass times can vary. It's essential to check the official St. Monica Catholic Church website for the most current schedule, including daily, weekend, and holiday masses.
Confession times are typically available. Please refer to the church's official website for the specific schedule of confession services.
The church building is often open for visitors to admire its architecture, especially during daylight hours. However, it's advisable to check their operating hours or contact them directly for specific visitor access.
Inquiries about weddings typically require attending a marriage information night. Some visitors have reported initial communication challenges, so it's best to check the church's website for their specific process and requirements.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Mass at St. Monica's can be quite lively, with a full band, singing, and clapping. It's described as a welcoming and engaged congregation, which may differ from more conservative Catholic services.
Reviews suggest that St. Monica Catholic Church leans towards a more liberal or progressive style of worship, with a vibrant and contemporary feel to its services.
Yes, the adjoining hospitality center designed by Frank Gehry is a notable architectural feature and can be viewed.
While specific accessibility details are not widely published, large churches like St. Monica's typically strive to accommodate visitors. It's recommended to contact the church directly for detailed information on accessibility.
Some visitors have noted seeing public figures like Tom Brady and Arnold Schwarzenegger at services, though the church is primarily known for its strong spiritual community.
🎫 🙏 Prayers & Faith
You can find prayers to St. Monica, the patron saint of mothers and difficult marriages, on various Catholic websites and in prayer books. Her legacy is one of patience and prayerful dedication.
St. Monica was the mother of St. Augustine of Hippo. Her life is characterized by her persistent prayers for her son's conversion and her virtuous example.
Yes, numerous Catholic resources offer prayers specifically dedicated to St. Monica, often focusing on themes of family, perseverance, and faith.
Some Catholic churches offer live streams of their masses. It's best to check the official St. Monica Catholic Church website or their social media channels for any live streaming options.
Prayers to St. Monica often involve seeking her intercession for family members, particularly for the conversion or well-being of children and spouses, and for strength in difficult circumstances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending a weekend Mass to experience the full community spirit. The church's beautiful architecture can also be a point of interest for older children. Always check the website for the most current mass times to plan your visit.
⛪ Those Seeking a Progressive Catholic Community
Reviewers praise the thoughtful homilies and the inclusive spirit of the community. This church offers a blend of spiritual depth and contemporary engagement, making it a fitting choice for those seeking a modern expression of Catholic faith.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Adjacent to this historic structure is the hospitality center, a striking modern design by Frank Gehry. This contrast provides a unique visual experience, showcasing how contemporary architectural innovation can coexist with traditional sacred spaces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of St. Monica Catholic Church
In striking contrast to the historic sanctuary is the adjoining hospitality center, designed by the world-renowned architect Frank Gehry. This modern addition provides a fascinating juxtaposition of old and new, showcasing Gehry's signature deconstructivist style. The center serves as a functional space for community gatherings and events, demonstrating the parish's commitment to both its heritage and contemporary needs.
Together, the historic church and the modern hospitality center create a unique campus that appeals to a wide range of visitors, from those seeking spiritual solace to architecture enthusiasts. The blend of styles reflects the evolving nature of faith communities while honoring their foundational traditions.
Community and Worship Style
While the Mass is considered valid, the worship style may differ from more conservative Catholic parishes. The community is noted for its inclusivity, attracting people from diverse backgrounds. Father David Guffey's homilies are frequently praised for being thoughtful and accessible, providing spiritual counsel that enriches parishioners' faith journeys.
The parish leadership, under Monsignor Torgerson, is credited with fostering an environment where parishioners feel at home. This blend of reverent tradition and meaningful community engagement makes St. Monica's a significant spiritual center for many in the Santa Monica area.
Inquiries and Parish Life
Beyond major life events, the parish is active in various ministries and charitable work, reflecting its role as a beacon of Catholic tradition. The church has a history of supporting education and cultural events, contributing to the broader Santa Monica community.
Overall, St. Monica's aims to be a place of spiritual nourishment and community activity, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its rich history and welcoming atmosphere. The church continues to be a vital spiritual hub, adapting to the needs of its growing congregation.
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