Parish webcam and live streaming policy

Purpose of the policy

In accordance with the pastoral mission of the Catholic Church and the guidance of the Diocese of Down and Connor, Kilmegan and Kilcoo Parishes provide live streaming of public liturgical celebrations to enable parishioners who are unable to attend in person to participate prayerfully from home.

This policy sets out how the parishes webcam is used and the safeguards in place to protect dignity, privacy and well-being.

Pastoral context

Live streaming is offered as a pastoral support, particularly for the sick, elderly and housebound. It is not intended to replace attendance at Mass where this is possible, which remains the normal and preferred form of participation in the Sacred Liturgy.

Location and use of the webcam

• A fixed webcam is positioned at the top of Saint Malachy’s Church, Castlewellan and Saint Malachy’s Church, Kilcoo, facing the sanctuary and altar.
• The camera does not move, zoom or track individuals.
• The primary focus is the celebration of the liturgy.
• Due to the elevated position, members of the congregation seated in the front rows may be visible.
• Parishioners are made aware of this and may choose where to sit if they prefer not to appear on the live stream.

Transparency and awareness

• Clear signage is displayed within the churches indicating that live streaming is taking place.
• Awareness is maintained through notice in the parish bulletin.
• The purpose of this notice is to inform and reassure, not to cause concern. No individual is identified, named or singled out during live streaming.

Respect for Privacy and Dignity

• The parishes are committed to upholding the dignity of every person, in line with Catholic teaching and civil law.
• No cameras are installed in areas where privacy is expected, including confessionals, sacristies, toilets or parish offices.
• Camera positioning avoids unnecessary or intrusive images of the congregation.

Children and safeguarding

• This policy operates in full accordance with the Safeguarding Children Policy and Procedures of the Diocese of Down & Connor.
• The webcam does not intentionally focus on children or young people.
• No close-up images of children/young people are taken.
• Live streaming does not replace or reduce safeguarding responsibilities.

Responsibility and oversight

• Overall responsibility for the webcam rests with the parish priest, acting on behalf of the Diocese of Down and Connor.
• Advice may be sought from the Diocesan Safeguarding Office or Diocesan Data Protection Officer as required.

Review

This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated to reflect changes in legislation, diocesan guidance or parish practice.