Pennsylvania Church Embraces 'Loud Kid Policy' for Worship

The policy aims to welcome noisy children, sparking debate over appropriate behavior in religious services.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A Pennsylvania church, Mt. Washington United Brethren In Christ, has implemented a 'loud kid policy' that encourages families to bring their noisy children to worship services, stating 'If your child makes noise, you are not bothering us. You are blessing us.' This policy, which was credited to First Baptist Union in Mississippi, has sparked a viral debate online, with some supporting the inclusive approach and others arguing that disruptive children should be disciplined in public spaces.

Why it matters

The 'loud kid policy' could encourage increased attendance from parents and supporters, but may also dissuade those skeptical of the policy from attending services. This debate touches on broader questions about appropriate behavior in religious settings and the role of children in worship. It also highlights how churches are navigating shifting attitudes towards parenting and the place of families in the church.

The details

In a Facebook post, Mt. Washington United Brethren In Christ shared their policy change, writing 'We believe the sound in worship is not a distraction. It is evidence of life, growth and the future of the church.' The post went viral, with some, like New York Times columnist David French, expressing support, while others, like right-wing commentator Matt Walsh, criticized the policy. The debate has highlighted differing views on how to handle noisy children in public spaces, especially in religious settings.

  • In February 2025, a Pew Research Center study found that one third of U.S. adults attend in-person religious services at least once a month, and a quarter report attending at least once a week.
  • In 2020, Pope Francis told parents not to worry if their children cry at Mass, stating: 'It is a beautiful homily when a child cries in church.'

The players

Mt. Washington United Brethren In Christ

A Pennsylvania church that has implemented a 'loud kid policy' to welcome noisy children in their worship services.

First Baptist Union

A church in Mississippi that was credited as the original source of the 'loud kid policy' idea.

David French

A columnist for The New York Times who expressed support for Mt. Washington United Brethren In Christ's policy on X.

Matt Walsh

A right-wing political commentator and podcast host who criticized the 'loud kid policy' on X.

Matthew J. Cordes

Runs a tax preparation service for ministers and defended the policy, arguing that 'crying babies' and 'singing men' are signs of a healthy church.

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What they’re saying

“If your child makes noise, you are not bothering us. You are blessing us.”

— Mt. Washington United Brethren In Christ (Facebook)

“I love this so much.”

— David French, Columnist, The New York Times (X)

“I'm actually considerably less tolerant of loud kids in public now than I was before I had my own. Your children should not be allowed to disrupt a church service, or any other public gathering.”

— Matt Walsh, Right-wing political commentator and podcast host (X)

“Crying babies, and singing men, are sounds that signify a healthy church. Bring your sometimes noisy kids to church. Help them learn to participate in the service appropriately, but don't be ashamed when they act like kids.”

— Matthew J. Cordes, Tax preparation service for ministers (X)

The takeaway

The 'loud kid policy' implemented by Mt. Washington United Brethren In Christ highlights the ongoing debate around balancing inclusivity and appropriate behavior in religious settings. As churches navigate shifting attitudes towards parenting and the role of families in worship, this policy has sparked a wider discussion about how to create welcoming environments for all congregants, including those with noisy children.