Policies for Use of Buildings and Grounds

These policies regard the use of any and all portions of church property by anyone. Anyone wishing to use the facilities of Christ Presbyterian Church will use them in keeping with Christian belief in reverence to God and respect for persons.

Requests
All requests for the use of any property belonging to Christ Presbyterian Church must be made to and approved by the Session. Pastors are authorized to make decisions about this on a case-by-case basis when convenient. An online calendar will be kept for all approved events scheduled for church facilities, to avoid scheduling conflicts. Once an event goes on the calendar, it is officially approved.

Priorities
Official Christ Pres activities will be given top priority. Priority will then be given to members of the Christ Pres community for private events, and finally, to others seeking use of the building. However, commitments once made will be kept, even when others later request use of facilities for the same time.

Liability
Groups and/or individuals using the property will be required to relieve CPC from any and all liability in regard to any accident which might occur on the property of CPC. This should be accomplished by signing a waiver to this effect before use. Reimbursement for anything broken or damaged will be required of the group that broke or damaged it.

Security
All groups or individuals using the facilities will be held responsible for providing for the security of the building and grounds during and after their event. This security is to include the securing of all windows and doors upon leaving the premises, and the returning of all keys to the church office.

Fees
The session of CPC reserves the right to charge a fee to individuals or groups desiring to use or rent the church facilities. This fee shall be set by the session and will be agreed upon in writing by those wishing to use the facilities. This payment may be required prior to use.

Care of Facilities
All persons using the facilities of CPC are responsible for cleaning up when they are finished. Fees do not include custodial services. Event leaders are responsible for sweeping, washing dishes, straightening up the nursery, picking up trash left on the grounds, and taking the trash outside to the trash cans. Groups are responsible to turn off heat and lights upon their departure and must return the key to the appropriate person after the event.

Alcohol, Tobacco, Vaping, Drugs
The use of these products on CPC property is prohibited unless permission is given by the Session.

Firearms
Firearms (loaded or unloaded) are not permitted on Church property at any time, except in the possession of an on duty public safety officer.

Children
Children must be supervised at all times. Toys, supplies, and classrooms are not available for use except as part of a Church-sponsored event or Facilities Use Rental agreement.

Decorating
No staples, tacks, nails, screws, glue, or permanent tape may be used to secure decorations. Only removable tape (such as “drafting” tape) that will not damage paint or woodwork is permitted.

Animals
Animals, other than those engaged in service to humans, are not allowed on the Church property or in the building without prior approval.

Sanctuary Use
No food or drink shall be taken into the sanctuary without prior permission from the Session.

Conditions for Denial
The session of CPC reserves the right to deny the privilege of using the building and grounds to anyone who is not willing to comply with this policy.

Church Calendar
An online calendar shall be maintained. This calendar will list all events by name, date, time, and room being used and will be updated regularly. All church members and groups are responsible for making sure that their meetings and groups are scheduled on the calendar. All changes to the calendar must be made through the person responsible for maintaining the calendar. Conflicts over usage will be settled by the Session based on priorities for use and level of importance as determined by the Session.