Mary Star of the Sea Parish

Attend Mary Star Mass on your Computer!

Mary Star of the Sea is now live-streaming its Mass, with the recitation of the Rosary 15 minutes beforehand.  Daily Mass will be livestreamed at 9:00am.  On Sunday the Mass will be live-streamed in the 4 different languages (the most of any parish in the L.A. Archdiocese), at the following times:

• 9:00am (English)
• 10:30am (Spanish)
• 12:00pm (Italian)
• 1:30pm (Croatian)

Please join other LA Catholics this Holy Week for the following special services that will be live streamed from the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on the L.A. Archdiocese website.

• Monday, April 6th at 6 p.m.:  Chrism Mass (the blessing of the Holy oils)
• Holy Thursday, April 9th at 7 p.m. (bilingual):      Mass of the Lord's Supper
• Good Friday, April 10th at 12 noon (English) and 3 p.m. (Spanish):  Passion of the Lord
• Saturday, April 11th at 8 p.m. (bilingual):  Easter Vigil
• Sunday, April 12th at 7 a.m. (Spanish) and 10 a.m. (English):  Easter Sunday Mass w/ Archbishop Gomez

You can follow along with the readings of the Mass by clicking on this link to see the text of today's Mass readings.
 

The L.A. Archdiocese has also made the Sunday and daily Masses at the L.A. Cathedral available via livestream on its website .  On Sunday the Mass is celebrated at 10:00 AM (English) and 7:00 AM (Spanish).  Daily Mass is livestreamed at 8:00 AM (English) and 7:00 AM (Spanish).

The Sunday Mass can also be viewed on EWTN at 9:00am and 9:00pm.  The Daily Mass can be viewed on EWTN at 9:00am, 4:00pm and 9:00pm.  You can live stream it on ewtn.com, or watch it on TV.  See ewtn.com/tv/channel-finder to find the EWTN channel for your TV provider.
 

Mary Star Parishioners

Although Mass is only being held online, it is still important for you to continue your weekly donation.  It is at times like these that we are called to live sacrificial and generous lives.  Ministry will continue, but will not be possible without your contribution.  You may drop off your offering at the parish office door, send it by mail (870 W. 8th St., San Pedro, CA 90731), or set up online giving through e-Giving (Click on this link to visit the e-Giving website, and follow the prompts).  We thank you for your understanding and generosity.  We greatly appreciate your continued support during this time.  For any questions, please call the parish office at 310-833-3541 (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), or email office@marystar.org.
 

Holy Week Resources For Parishioners At Home

The response to COVID-19 is evolving as rapidly as the world around us.  So Liturgical Training Publication has put together some free resources that might be helpful to you for Holy Week.  Please feel free to visit the following online site (and check back regularly for updates), as LTP will continue to create and share free resources to meet the needs of parishes and individuals who are adjusting to physical distancing and temporarily altered parish schedules.

Holy Week at Home is a helpful resource for individual and family prayer to help guide you as we enter this Holy Week. Let us continue to pray together. Click on this link to visit the Liturgical Press website.
 

Relevant Radio has Special Holy Week Programming

Parishioners, we are reaching out to you with various prayer opportunities that we have at Relevant Radio, heard on 930 am, on relevantradio.com and on the app.  Check out the Holy Week Schedule by clicking on this link.

Prayer is powerful.  It has the ability to change things.  And so I would like to invite you to participate in a special Relevant Radio® network-wide prayer campaign to help end COVID-19.  Will you join us?

• Live Daily Mass at 10 a.m. PT
• Live Stations of the Cross, Fridays at 1:35 p.m. PT
• Live Divine Mercy Chaplet weekdays at 1 p.m. PT
• Live Rosary 5 p.m. PT

During this time of uncertainty, we hope you'll join us daily in prayer on 930am, at relevantradio.com, or on the Relevant Radio app.  Now, more than ever, we must lean on faith and facts, not fear, to help us through.

I invite you to join the “Prayer vs. Pandemic” movement by committing daily to pray for the end to the coronavirus and adding your name to our prayer map.  After you sign up, check back often to see our progress, share the movement to increase the prayer population, and watch the prayers wash over the nation, coast-to-coast and all over the world.  We are in this together!
 

National Prayer on Good Friday

Join L.A. Archbishop Jose Gomez, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, in a national moment of prayer in the time of the coronavirus.  Together as a nation, we will pray the Litany to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and seek our savior's healing and protection.

On Good Friday, April 10th, at 9am PDT, visit the USCCB Facebook page or the LA Archdiocese website to join the live-stream, and pray as one nation.

Please click on this link to view the flyer.

 

Churches Closed in L.A. Archdiocese

On Tuesday, March 24th, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles announced that all parish churches, chapels, centers and missions are to be closed to the public effective now through April 19th, or until further notice.  Parishes are to cancel all Lenten penance services and suspend all regularly scheduled confession times.  Therefore the church will no longer be open daily for private prayer & Eucharistic adoration.  Confessions will no longer be heard.

Please click on this link to read the March 24th letter from the L.A. Archdiocese.

On Monday, March 16th, in response to growing public health concerns about the spread of the coronavirus, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles has announced the suspension of public Masses, at least until March 29th.

Please click on this link to read the full March 16th letter from the L.A. Archdiocese.

Please click on this link to view the latest information on the L.A. Archdiocese web site.

 

The STAR Connection

After completing the first week of our MSSE Class2Cloud Online Education Program, I am very proud of what our community has accomplished.  My mission is to lift up our school in the midst of this Coronavirus pandemic as a shining example of what professional educators, supportive parents and great kids can do when faced with a challenge.

Now, I want to talk about another mission for our community.  I am launching "The Star Connection", a program to support those in need, from those who have.  As the days go by, some within our school and parish community will find themselves in need of assistance, such as household items that such a long shut down can bring.  I want you to spread the word and if you're in need, email me at starconnection@gomsse.com.  I will act as a conduit to search out through email, calls and social media to locate the item you need.  Those wishing to donate will deliver items to me at MSSE and I will then contact and handoff that item to those requesting.  No need to worry about social distancing or contact with someone outside your circle.  Together we can work as our Lord instructed and “...bear one another's burdens” (Gal 6:2).  When in need or to donate, email me at starconnection@gomsse.com.

- James Cordero, Principal of Mary Star Elementary School
 

Daily Rosary against Corona Virus

Bible Study expert Jeff Cavins and Ascension Press have announced that they will be praying the rosary every day at 1 p.m. Pacific time until the Corona virus has been defeated.  You can join them via live stream on Facebook.  (Even if you miss it live, you can still view the video afterward, and pray along with it.)

Amid worsening conditions related to the global coronavirus outbreak, Pope Francis urged Catholics to unite spiritually to start praying the rosary simultaneously on the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19th).  The pope invited every family, every individual Catholic, and every religious community to start praying the Luminous mysteries on Thursday, March 19th at 9:00 pm Rome time (1 p.m. PDT).  The initiative was initially proposed by the bishops of Italy. The pope made the plea at the end of his weekly Wednesday General Audience, which was broadcast from the Vatican's Apostolic Palace due to the national quarantine under effect in Italy.

 

Stations of the Cross are Online!

The Stations Of The Cross on Fridays during Lent have been moved online!  You can stream the video of the Stations of the Cross at the Ascension Press facebook page and on YouTube, and pray it along with us.

 

Pastor's Letter Addressing Health Concerns

Pastor Harrigan wrote a letter on March 13th addressing the current health concerns with the Corona virus.  Some points are already outdated by newer direction from the L.A. archdiocese, as described in the article above.  A key point that is not outdated is that our schools will be closed until March 31st.

• Click on this link to visit the Elementary School website.
• Click on this link to visit the High School website.

Please click on this link to read the full letter

Mary Star Elementary School Open House has been POSTPONED

Cluny Sisters Lenten Holy Hour Cancelled

We invite you to join us each Monday evening during Lent from 6:30-7:30 pm, beginning on March 2nd, in the Parish Center Chapel, as we journey through this Lenten Season with an hour of hymns, prayers and silence.





 

Divine Mercy Chaplet During Lent Cancelled

The Divine Mercy Chaplet will be prayed at 3:00pm in the church every weekday during lent ( Mon. thru Fri.).  It begins on Ash Wednesday, February 26th.  The Chaplet is a prayer of atonement and petition for mercy while reflecting on the passion of Jesus.  All are welcome to join us in this powerful devotion as we prepare for Holy Week and Easter Sunday.


 

Friday Lenten Meals have been Cancelled

Knights of Columbus
Friday Lenten Meals
Mary Star of the Sea Auditorium
After the 5:15pm Mass (which has also been cancelled)
February 28th, March 6th, March 13th, March 20th, March 27th & April 3rd
$10 Donation for a Fish Dinner
Benefits Christian Care for the homeless in San Pedro.

 

Spring Swing Dance POSTPONED

The Spring Swing Dance has been postponed.  It was going to be presented by the Filipino Group on Saturday, March 21st from 6pm to 11pm in the Mary Star Auditorium.  For more info., please call Myrna at 310-529-0774.
 

Perpetual Adoration

Let’s give thanks to the Lord for all he has provided us with.  If not that, let’s ask for the grace and guidance to find a solution to a difficult problem.  Or pray for our family’s health and well-being. There are countless reasons to join us, in prayer, in the Adoration Chapel, praying before the Blessed Sacrament.
The available hours are:
Tuesday morning  Midnight - 1 a.m.
Tuesday morning  1 - 2 a.m.
Tuesday morning  2 - 3 a.m.
Wednesday night  11 p.m. - Midnight

“We should be ever mindful of all the benefits we have received from God during life.  Happy shall we be if we strive to thank God for them."  - St. Bernard 
Please contact us at (310) 548-1693.  Barbara West, coordinator


 

Mary Star Christian Care

Christian Care needs you!  We need volunteers for the evening meal distribution on Monday-Friday from 4pm-5:30pm (especially Wednesdays).
Also...
On the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, food and clothing is distributed to families who come to our door between 7:30 and 9:00AM.  If you could volunteer even one day a month it would be a big help!  Please call 310-548-1645 for more information or to volunteer.  Thank you!
 

Lectio Divina

We extend an invitation to all who would like to join our Lectio Divina group.  We meet on the first (1st) and third (3rd) Tuesdays of the month in the Parish Center Chapel from 9:00 - 10:00 am.  Lectio Divina is a prayerful reflection on a Scripture passage.  The text for each meeting is the gospel from the previous Sunday.  There is growing interest in this ancient form of prayer and it will be to our benefit if we open ourselves to it.  Hoping to see many of you at the next sessions.

For more information, contact Sister Loretto.

 

High School Applications

The High School is now accepting applications for the 2020-2021 School Year.  Please visit www.marystarhigh.com or call 310-547-1138 for information and applications.

Interested in attending an awesome Catholic High School?  Want to experience a vibrant academic, athletic, social and spiritual life during your high school years?  All public, private and Catholic school students are invited to visit Mary Star of the Sea High School.  Through the MSHS Shadow Program, all visitors will shadow freshman-level courses and several advanced courses.  Lunch will be provided.  Please contact MSHS main office to schedule your Shadow Day: (310)-547-1138; kphillips@marystarhigh.com.
 

Parish Fiesta Queen Contest 2020

The Fiesta Queen Committee is accepting applications for high school-aged students who would like to participate in the 73rd Annual Parish Fiesta Queen Contest.  Fiesta dates are July 17,18,19, 2020.
You must be between the ages of 15 years and 18 years, be a parishioner at Mary Star of the Sea Church, and attend a local high school.  If you are interested, please contact the Parish Fiesta Hot Line at 310-833-3541 ext. 203.  Please leave a message with your name and phone number.  The fiesta queen committee will return your call.
 

Adult Sacraments

Sessions in preparation for the reception of Confirmation and/or First Holy Communion began on:  Tuesday, January 7, 2020 in Room 111, 7:00pm to 8:30 pm.  Please call the Religious Education office to Register, at (310) 833-3541  Ext. 221, 222.
 

Confirmacion Para Adultos en Español

Las clases de confirmación para adultos en Español comenzarán el Martes, 7 de Enero.  Por favor llame a la oficina de Educación Religiosa para reservar su lugar. (310) 833-3541  Ext. 221.
 

Collecting Socks & Underwear

We are now collecting new socks & underwear for the homeless.  Preferred sizes are large & extra large.  Donation bins can be found in the church.

 

St. Vincent De Paul Society

Blanket Collection:  Winter is upon us!  We are now collecting blankets for the homeless.  Due to the extreme cold weather, we will continue collecting blankets through February.  There is a box placed near the statue of St. Anne for your donations.  Thank you in advance.

For St. Vincent de Paul pickup of donations call 800- 974-3571.  For car donations (a tax deduction & free pickup) call 800-974-3571.

 

Mark Your Calendars for our 73rd Annual Mary Star Parish Fiesta

Fiesta dates are:  Friday, Saturday & Sunday:  July 17th, 18th & 19th inside our church parking lot.  Bring the entire family for a weekend of:  Carnival Rides And Games, Fresh Home-Made Foods.  Crowning of our new "2020" Fiesta Queen.
Main Raffle is: A New "2020" Car Or =="$20,000" In Cash. Free Admission. Watch upcoming Parish Bulletins for Fiesta planning meeting dates.
 

Stella Maris Gift and Bookstore

Visit the Stella Maris Bookstore at the far end of the parking lot for Bibles and other reading materials, children's books, rosaries, novelty gifts & greeting cards.
Store Hours:
Wednesdays from 3:00 - 6:00pm (September to May)
Sundays from 8:30am to 1:30pm
Contact: 310-519-8661 - stellamaris@marystar.org
Proceeds benefit Mary Star Elementary and High Schools.




 

Farewell Letter from Deacon Jorge Malca

GRACIAS HERMANOS MIOS, . . . Muy amados hermanos en Cristo Jesús, con mucho dolor en mi corazón y fe en el mañana, luego de 14 años sirviendo en ESTA PARROQUIA, por motivos familiares, debo partir al estado de Washington, con la esperanza de continuar el Ministerio Diaconal al cual fui llamado, y como lo dijo Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, no llevo, ni bolsa, ni alforja, ni sandalias, solo un corazón lleno del Espíritu y un ánimo inmenso de predicar la palabra.  El día domingo 08 de Diciembre a las 10:30 am, será mi última misa, donde tendré la oportunidad de agradecerles personalmente a cada uno de ustedes, todas sus muestras de amor, agradecer a Dios por habernos permitido caminar juntos, pasar momentos de alegría y tristeza, pero sobre todo por haber orado juntos.  Nuestro Padre Dios me permitirá regresar en algún momento, y por eso solo les digo HASTA LUEGO!, cuídense mucho, perdónense, ámense, no se desanimen, las adversidades nos dan la oportunidad de ser el rostro de Cristo, Oren mucho en la familia, en la comunidad, vivan la misa, sientan cada plegaria con alegría y pasión, y si pueden tener un pequeño tiempo, por favor oren por mi camino, yo estaré orando por ustedes, Siempre los llevare en mi corazón como parte de mi familia, una familia llamada Mary Star of The Sea.  Dios los bendiga.

THANK YOU MY BROTHERS,. . . Very dear brothers in Christ Jesus, with much pain in my heart and faith in tomorrow, after 14 years serving in THIS PARISH, for family reasons, I must leave for the state of Washington, hoping to continue the Diaconal Ministry to which I was called, and as Our Lord Jesus Christ said, I do not carry, nor bag, nor saddlebag, nor sandals, only a heart full of the Spirit and an immense spirit to preach the word.  On Sunday, December 8 at 10:30 am, it will be my last Mass, where I will have the opportunity to personally thank each of you, all the love you have shown me and my family, thank God for allowing us to walk together, spend moments of joy and sadness, but above all for having prayed together.  Our Father God will allow me to return at some point, and that is why I only tell you UNTIL THEN !, take care, forgive yourself, love yourself, do not be discouraged, adversities give us the opportunity to be the face of Christ, Pray much in the family in the community, live the Mass, feel each prayer with joy and passion, and if you can have a little time please pray for my path, I will be praying for you, I will always carry you in my heart as part of my family, a family called Mary Star of the Sea.  God bless you.
 

Learn to Sing the Mass, at Mass

Learn to sing the Mass as envisioned by Church documents.
When:  Every Sunday at 4:15PM (1 hour before the 5:15PM Mass)
Where:  Chapel or Library of the Convent (building East of the Church)
More info:  www.chant.training or call Hervé Blanquart at (626)278-0786.

 

Mass Intentions 2019-2020

The Mass Intention Book for 2019-2020 is now open.
To schedule a Mass Intention, please come to the parish office between 9a.m.-4:00p.m.  The Mass Intentions will be scheduled on a first-come, first- served basis, and must be scheduled in person.  In order to accommodate everyone, there is a limit of 2 Masses per family only.
 

40 Days for Life

Take a stand for life from Sep. 25th to Nov. 3rd.  40 Days for Life is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to access God's power through prayer, fasting and peaceful vigil to end abortion.  Forty Days for Life is a ground-breaking, coordinated international mobilization against abortion.

Please click on this link to view the flyer.

For more information, please click on the link below to visit the local 40 Days for Life website:

https://40daysforlife.com/torrance

 

Annual Life Chain

Sunday October 6, 2019
The Mary Star community met at Mary Star Parish Auditorium at 1:30 pm and walked down to 9th and Gaffey Street to stand together in support of life.  LIFE CHAIN is a peaceful and prayerful public witness of prolife individuals standing for 90 minutes, praying for our nation and for an end to abortion.

Please click on this link to view the event photos.

 

Confirmation News

Non-MSHS Students:  Confirmation sessions will be offered at the Mary Star High School campus in 2019 - 2020.  This program is for those students entering the 10th grade and above.  The dates are as follows:  September 16th (parent session), September 23, October 7, October 21, November 4, November 18, December 18, December 2, January 13, January 28, February 10, February 24, March 9, March 30, and one other date in April that has yet to be announced.  Sessions are from 7-8:30pm in the high school gymnasium.  Forms can be found on the school website at marystarhigh.com under “Student Life,” or at the parish office, and should be turned in to the parish office.  Mary Star of the Sea High School is located at 2500 N. Taper Avenue, San Pedro, 90731.

MSHS Students:  With the approval of our pastor, Rev. Maurice Harrigan, Mary Star Parish will offer Confirmation preparation classes to all 10th grade students.  The curriculum will fulfill the Mary Star parish requirements for Confirmation instruction, and make students eligible for Confirmation at Mary Star of the Sea Church in April 2020.
 

Classes to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion began in September.  We continue to accept registrations, but please do not delay.  Download the registration form at our Faith Formation web page by clicking on this link, or call the office for one.  Classes will be held on Wednesdays from 4:15 to 5:30pm or Saturdays from 9:45 to 11:00am.  If you need further information on any of the above programs, please call Sister Mary or Jamie at 310-833-3541, ext. 221, 222.
 

Please click on this link for more information on the Sacraments for Adults.

 

Mary Star Elementary School Tours

MSSE is accepting applications for our Pre-K thru 8th Grade classes.  Financial aid and sliding tuition scale are possible with completed application.  Please call our office at (310)831-0875 to arrange for a tour and information.
 

Please click on this link to view the flyer.


 

Weekly Holy Hour

MARY STAR OF THE SEA CHURCH

WHEN: Every Wednesday
WHERE: In the Church
TIME: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm

EXPOSITION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT
ROSARY WITH MEDITATION ON EACH MYSTERY
10 MIN. OF SILENT REFLECTION
CHAPLET OF DIVINE MERCY
5 MIN. OF SILENT REFLECTION
BENEDICTION

"In order to convert America and save the World, what we need is for every parish to come before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament in Holy Hours of prayer." - Saint Mother Teresa
  At 6:00 PM every Wednesday there is a Holy Hour in the church.  It begins with exposition of The Blessed Sacrament.  Within the hour, there is a rosary with beautiful meditations, time for silent reflection, and the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.  The Holy Hour concludes with Benediction.  Please come and spend one hour with Jesus.  This is a special time of abundant blessings for all!
 

Volunteers Needed!

There are many different volunteer opportunities for morning, evening, and weekends.  We especially need morning drivers to use our van to pick up donated food items in San Pedro.  Please call 310-548-1645 to speak to Toni Martinovich or Lisa Stinis about volunteering.



 

Fiesta News — 2019

Our 72nd Annual Fiesta Queen and her Court, with Fr. Harrigan.
Top row, from left to right:  Fiesta Princesses Sofia Cardenas, Dana Jones and Angelina Schroeder.
Bottom row:  2019 Queen Rosana Poliseri, Fr. Harrigan, and 2018 Queen Sofia Amalfitano.  

Main Raffle Prize Winners for Fiesta 2019

Fr. Harrigan and Fiesta Princess Dana Jones with the 2019 Fiesta Grand Prize Winner, Donna Sealy.

Grand Prize:  New Car - Donna Sealy
2nd Prize:  Princess Baja Cruise for 2 - Cheryl Yamashita
3rd Prize:  Las Vegas Trip for 2 - Nada Sutrin
4th Prize:  J.W. Marriott Desert Springs Getaway for 2 - Kim Saavedra
 

Pictures

Did you attend the 2019 Fiesta weekend?  Nick Vilicich took a picture of your fun time!  Fiesta Photos can viewed and purchased at Nickvphotos1.shootproof.com  You can call the Rectory (310) 833-3541 ext. 203 for more information.

 

For more Fiesta info please click on this link.

Natural Family Planning

Have you ever thought about what unnatural birth control methods really do to your body?  To your marriage?  The Couple to Couple League has the answers and more.  Attend a short course and learn a natural method of family planning that is safe, effective, and morally acceptable.  Great for achieving as well as postponing pregnancy.  A course starts Monday, June 24th in Long Beach.  For more information:
Beth and Greg Gath 562-377-5877 or bethgath@gmail.com.
 

The Farewell Message from Fr. Martin Benzoni

Dear Fellow Parishioners,
Towards the end of the month I will celebrate 38 years as a priest.  A few days later I will wind up my ministry here at Mary Star.  When I started here three years ago, I thought I’d be here longer.  But, as is so often the case, God had different plans.  It’s been an honor to be part of a community with such a rich history and diversity.  Serving here has been a blessing, and I leave grateful for my time here.  I am thankful to Fr. Harrigan for allowing me to exercise my priesthood so fully among you and to be able to work alongside such a wonderful staff and fellow priests.  I am indebted to all of you who opened your hearts and gave me the opportunity to bring Jesus’ love in moments of joy and of suffering, and to offer you his presence in the Eucharist and his mercy in Confession.  Baptisms and weddings, sick calls and house blessings, funerals and daily Masses were each one moments of great grace for me, and I trust they helped draw you closer to the Lord.  In particular, I also want to express my gratitude for the possibility of working with our parish high school and the students, staff and administration there.  It’s truly an amazing place and a real credit to the parish.  I’m not sure exactly what the future holds.  I know that the Lord is calling me to serve the Church and my Order in the Eternal City of Rome where some four decades ago I spent six years preparing for the priesthood.  I know I will face new challenges, and so I will depend on your prayers.  Once I’m settled in, I hope you will come and visit.  As we say, “Arrivederci!”

In Jesus’ Love,
Fr. Martin

 

The Farewell Message from Fr. Freddie Chua

FIAT - the Latin word for what in English means let it be done to me.  This was what Mary says in Luke 1:38, at the end of the Annunciation, in response to Archangel Gabriel’s message that God would overshadow her and she would conceive and give birth to a Son, who shall be called Emmanuel, God with us.  It is because of Mary’s fiat that the Word of God was made flesh and became for us the Real Body & Blood of Christ. Mary modeled what we ought to do as disciples of Christ.  As we partake of the Body & Blood of Christ, we are to imitate Mary’s way of hearing, to be completely receptive to the Word of God that He takes flesh within us, transforming us into His own image.  This July, I will be moving to Acadia to be the pastor of Annunciation Church.  It will be back to full-time parish work leading a diverse faith community as unique as Mary Star of the Sea.  I feel the excitement in starting anew and at the same time, sadness because it means leaving the people and place that I learned to love.  Time flies by so fast. It has already been seven years since I was appointed Chaplain of the Apostleship of the Sea/Catholic Maritime Ministry.  It was truly a joy and privilege to serve the men and women who worked onboard the merchant marine and leisure cruise ships that visit our ports.  More so, Mary Star parish has welcomed and supported me in this very unique assignment.  I am always overwhelmed by your prayers, your dedication and you generosity.  This giving nature shows that Christ is at work in you.  I will miss the wonderful celebration of the Church’s Sacraments, the diverse food and cultural celebrations, Fiesta, cool weather and fresh ocean breeze.  Most of all, I will miss your generous hearts.  Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family, for making Mary Star of the Sea to be my home and for you making it feel like home.  My gratitude as well to Fr. Harrigan & all the priests, (past and present), deacons, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny, and the wonderful staff of the parish and schools that I have the pleasure of serving with in this little corner of God’s kingdom.

Yours truly,
Fr. Freddie Chua

 

Congratulations to Fr. Martin!

Earlier this month his superior, Abbot Eugene Hayes, in formed us that the Abbot General of the Norbertine Order has named Fr. Martin Benzoni as Rector of the Norbertine College in Rome.  Fr. Martin will complete his ministry here at Mary Star at the end of June and take up his new responsibilities after the middle of August.  We will have the opportunity to say farewell at the end of June.  We wish him all God’s blessings and promise him our prayers as he begins this new and challenging endeavor.

 

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Email: soniajimenezc@yahoo.com

PROXIMO FIN DE SEMANA
Octubre 18-20, 2019

 

Kindergarten "Star for a Day" Experience

Mary Star Elementary School held a "Star for a Day" Kindergarten experience on Tuesday, March 5th.
 

Please click on this link to view the flyer.


 

Praying The Holy Rosary Before The Sunday Masses

Hereafter on Sundays we will pray the Holy Rosary before the each mass.  It will be conducted by the priest, the one who offers the mass.  Hence, 15 minutes before each mass, kindly be present in the church.
 

Thursday Mornings
at Mary Star of the Sea
began October 11th

The Thursday Morning Bible Study at Mary Star of the Sea would like to invite you to join us as we continue our study of the Gospel of St. Matthew, combining lectio divina (an ancient form of prayer in the church) with traditional Bible study.  As the Word of God moves more deeply in us, we take the beautiful lessons we’ve learned into our lives.
Where:  Msgr. Gallagher Parish Center, The Sisters’ Chapel
When:  Thursday mornings, 9am – 11am
For more information, please contact Louise Garcia at 310-831-9839.

 

Please welcome Fr. Diego Menniti

Please extend a warm San Pedro welcome to Fr. Diego Menniti, a priest of the Archdiocese of Catanzaro- Squillace in Calabria, Italy.  Since his ordination on June 27, 2015, Fr. Menniti has served as a parochial vicar in the parish of St. Barbara in the city of Catanzaro, as Vice-Rector in the Diocesan High School Seminary and Chaplain at the "Villa del Sole" Cardiological and Orthopedic clinic.  In 2016 he obtained his licentiate in Moral-Social Theology.  For the academic year 2017-2018, Fr. Menniti appointed in charge of the Preparatory year at the Pontifical Regional Seminary "St Pius X" of Catanzaro.  He started his postgraduate studies (M.A. in Bioethics) at Loyola Marymount University at the beginning of 2018.  Fr. Diego will be a student-priest in residence here at Mary Star of the Sea Church, and also helping with ministerial needs of the parish to experience pastoral work in the Archdiocese.  Benvenuto!
 

PreSchool News

Registration is now open for the 2018-2019 school year for 3-5 year olds who are fully pottie trained.  Our preschool program is year round, part– and full– time.  Come over and take a tour!  No appointments necessary!

We have a safe environment with qualified, caring teachers who instruct faith development and age appropriate hands-on activities in Creative Art, Kindergarten Readiness, Math Concepts, Science Exploration, Multicultural Exposure, Music/Movement Activities, Dramatic Play, Outdoor Activities and Character Development.

For more information about our preschool program, please call (310) 833-3541 Ext. 228 and ask for Beth Castagnola (Director), email at MaryStarPreschool@gmail.com or visit:  www.MaryStarElementary.com.
 

Fiesta News — 2018

Our 71st Annual Fiesta Queen and her Court.

Top row:  Fr. M. Harrigan.
Bottom row, from left to right:  Karla Rocha, 2018 Fiesta Queen Sofia Amalfitano, our 2017 Former Fiesta Queen Gina Duhovic, and Lauren Mitchell.
 For more Fiesta info please click on this link.

Pray the Rosary with us

Please join us at 5:00 p.m. in the church for a 10 minute Rosary on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.  Come and Pray With Us.  Thank You and Blessings from the 5:00 p.m. "Weekday" Evening Prayer Team.
 

Attention Eucharistic Ministers

Volunteers are needed to distribute Holy Communion to Catholic patients at San Pedro Little Company of Mary Hospital. If you can participate in this ministry, please contact Maria Andrews, Spiritual Care Office (310) 241- 4365 or maria.andrews@providence.org.
 

Chant the Mass

Are you part of a family looking to chant the Mass together?
Would you like to expose children to what "singing the Mass" is?
The Mary Star Elementary and the adult scholars are joining on the first Sunday of the month to chant the Mass both in English and Latin.
Where?
  Mary Star of the Sea - 877 W 7th St San Pedro, CA
When?
To join and sing along (all ages and skills welcome!): meet us at 4:15PM in the Chapel of the convent, walk on parking lot to the East of the Church entrance. Mass starts at 5:15PM.
More info: www.longbeachchant.com
 

Mary Star High School Recognized Nationally

Mary Star of the Sea High School was recognized as a Catholic Education Honor Roll School.  The national Honor Roll program is directed by the Cardinal Newman Society and has recognized only 6 highperforming Catholic high schools nationwide in 2017.  Mary Star engaged in a thorough internal and external review of its comprehensive program offerings before being awarded this status.  It has received specific recognition for its strong integration of Catholic identity throughout its efforts, including the integrity of its mission, and the strength of its community and rich spiritual life.  The Honor Roll also recognized the school’s efforts at integral formation of the minds, bodies, and spirits of its students as well as its comprehensive academic program which seeks to instill a Christian vision of the world and human wisdom and culture.  “The Honor Roll is a helpful tool for families and benefactors in recognizing the quality of a Catholic high school,” said Patrick J. Reilly, president of The Cardinal Newman Society.  “It is external validation that a school is both focused and successful in meeting the high calling of Catholic schools to serve the well-being and salvation of students and to serve the common good.”  Dr. Denise Donohue, coordinator of the Honor Roll, stated, “We are very pleased to have Mary Star High School join in the nationally recognized ranks of excellence; this is a select group.  The school has well demonstrated they are successful in meeting the key principles that guide Catholic education.”  Mary Star’s Principal Ms. Rita Dever remarked, “It is great affirmation for Mary Star High School to be recognized by the Catholic Education Honor Roll.  This distinction confirms our commitment to the mission of Catholic education.  I applaud the leadership, administration, students, parents, teachers, and staff for their hard work in assuring a strong Catholic identity permeates all that we do in preparing our students to be future leaders in both society and the Church.”  More information on Mary Star High School is available at www.marystarhigh.com.  More information on the Catholic Education Honor Roll is available at cardinalnewmansociety.org.
 

  Adult Faith Formation session will take place on Tuesday, November 14th at 7:00pm in church.  The topic is Death and Dying:  facing the end.  The topic is appropriate especially during this month of November when we are invited to pray for all our loved ones who have gone before us.  This session is for the parents of children who are preparing for First Holy Communion.  All are welcome to attend.
 
If you need further information on the above program, please call Sister Mary or Lorena at (310) 833- 3541, ext 221, 222.
 

Special Needs Faith Formation

St. Margaret Mary Parish in Lomita offers Catholic faith formation for children and others with special needs (e.g., those who are moderately or severely disabled physically, intellectually, or in other ways, such as those with Down Syndrome, ADHD, autism, and vision and hearing problems).  The faith formation is tailored to their needs and prepares them to receive the sacraments, including First Holy Communion.
The sessions are held on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m.  Volunteers also are needed to help with this faith formation (training will be provided).  For more information or to volunteer, please call St. Margaret Mary Parish at (310) 326-3364.
 

CREIGHTON MODEL FertilityCare SYSTEM

The CREIGHTON MODEL FertilityCare System (CrMS) is available to women who want to understand their menstrual and fertility cycles.  With a few minutes of daily observations and the NaProTRACKING of certain “biomarkers”, the CrMS provides a woman a greater insight into the function of her body.  Married couples can use this system to naturally plan their families and strengthen their relationships.  Using fertile days to achieve pregnancy and infertile days to avoid pregnancy, the CrMS is a safe and healthy alternative to artificial contraception, sterilization, and IVF/IUI that honors the dignity of life and love.  Working with our excellent network of CrMS medical consultants, we also provide comprehensive service to women who are dealing with a variety of reproductive health issues, including infertility.  Based on 30 years of scientific research and faithful to Pope Paul VI’s encyclical Humanae Vitae, the CrMS is not only highly reliable but also morally acceptable.  Free monthly CrMS Introductory Sessions are held every 3rd Tuesday at 7:30pm in the Parish Center.  To pre-register, please contact Marianne Dyogi, CFCP at (714) 803-4775 or msdyogi@gmail.com.  More information can be found at stellamarisfertilitycare.com.  Spread the good news that every woman deserves to know!

Evening Prayer Group

The Liturgy of the Hours is available at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, in the Church right before the 5:15 p.m. Mass.  Prayer is a Gift.  Let’s Open it up Together!  Please Join Us.  Your Current Evening Prayer Leaders are as follows: Monday - Rene Mardesich; Tuesday - Shelly Chin; Wednesday - Elfida Soto; Friday– Louise Garcia.

 
 

Tuesday Evening Prayer Group

You are invited to join us on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm. in the Parish Center Chapel.  We begin with praise and worship and continue with shared scripture and prayer for all those who are in need.  It is a wonderful time to come together to praise Jesus, for all he is doing in our lives!  "Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am in their midst" - Matt. 18 -  For information call the rectory (310)833-3541 or Louise Garcia at (310)831-9839.
 

By Your Side LA

As we conclude this season of Lent, we want to highlight By Your Side LA, a new ministry to offer healing to women and men affected by abortion.  By Your Side is a comprehensive, bilingual ministry that includes a beautiful website, professional call center, trained lay Merciful Companions, and referrals to healing resources including sacraments, retreats, support groups, bible studies, mental health professionals, and more.  We want to be by the side of each person journeying from pain following abortion to a new place of forgiveness and peace.  We hope you will come to know that you are created out of love and for love.  The abortion does not define you.  That you can build a life deserving of the amazing person you are.  We are here to listen.  And we will be by your side.  Visit ByYourSideLA.org for more information.



Al entrar en esta temporada de Cuaresma, queremos resaltar a un ministerio nuevo, Contigo LA brinda apoyo a mujeres y hombres afectados por el aborto para lograr una sanación interior.  Contigo LA es un Ministerio integral y bilingüe que incluye una hermosa página web, un centro de llamadas professional, Acompanates Misericordiosos (laicos capacitados).  Además brinda informes a medios de sanación:  sacramentos, retiros, grupos de apoyo, estudios bíblicos, acceso a profesionales de salud mental y mucho más.  Queremos acompañar a cada persona en su jornada, del sufrimiento a un lugar de perdón y paz después de un aborto.  Esperamos que llegues a saber que fuiste creado del amor para amar.  El aborto no te define.  Tu eres una persona extraordinaria y puedes crear una vida digna de ti.  Estamos aquí para escucharte, estamos contigo.  Para mayores informes visita ContigoLA.org.
 

Families of Nazareth Faith Sharing Group

We will be starting again this Fall on Saturday, September 10th!

• Are you searching for a deeper relationship with God?
• Are you interested in developing your “interior” life?
• Do you want to better understand the Blessed Mother’s role in your faith journey?

Where:  Monsignor Gallagher Parish Center Chapel
When:  Saturday mornings from 9:00-10:00am
(Open to adults only, all are welcome)

“Everything that you experience is linked to the love of God who loves you, and to His desire for your good.”
Fr Tadeusz Dajczer, “The Gift of Faith”

For more information contact:  Holly Oldenburg at (310)729-3736 or visit our website at:
www.familiesofnazareth.us
 

Mary Star Bookstore Needs Volunteers

Stella Maris Bookstore is looking for volunteers to sell on Sundays and Wednesdays.  Hours scheduled are 2 1/2 on Sunday or 2 3/4 on Wednesday once or twice a month.  Proceeds benefit Mary Star Elementary and High Schools.  If you are interested, please email the bookstore at stellamaris@marystar.org or call the bookstore at 310-519-8661; leave a message and we will call you.  Thank you, in advance, for your service.
 

Mary Star High School Principal Honored

On Thursday, March 31st Ms. Rita Dever, Principal of Mary Star of the Sea High School, was honored at the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s History Month Reception.  As one of five women celebrated that evening, she received several certificates of recognition including a Certificate of Congressional Recognition, California Legislative Assembly Certificate of Recognition, and State of California Senate Certificate of Recognition.





 

Mary Star High School Honored by the NFL

Mary Star of the Sea High School has been selected to the National Football League’s Super Bowl High School Honor Roll.  As part of the celebration for the 50th anniversary of the Super Bowl, the NFL is awarding high schools a commemorative Golden Football for every player or coach who was on an active Super Bowl roster.  Tim Wrightman, Class of 1978, presented the commemorative Golden Football to Mary Star of the Sea High School on Tuesday, January 19th.  Tim went on from MSHS to star at UCLA, where he played tight end.  He then played for the Chicago Bears when they won the Super Bowl in 1985.
 

Tim Wrightman presents a golden football to Principal Dever, Fr. Nicholas, and Fr. Harrigan.

Need Gift Cards?

Gift cards for a wide variety of merchants are available for purchase (fee-free!) outside the church on Sundays from 8:00am to 11:45am.

Please click on this link to view the MSHS Gift Card Merchant List.
 

Website Manager

Please note, we have a website manager.  If you are a Parish community or group member who requires future changes/additions to your particular web page on our Parish website, please feel free to contact Michael Munn at MMunn@marystar.org.

(310) 519-8661
stellamaris@marystar.org

The Bookstore is located adjacent to the Parish Auditorium.

  
We honor Mary Star of the Sea Elementary & High School scrip! We also have a variety of great Catholic items, for more information,please click here.

Bookstore Announcements: 

• Lent related booklets and Stations of the Cross pamphlets are now available!

• ​You can volunteer in the parish for as little as 4 hours per month in the Stella Maris Bookstore. No experiece necessary; we will train you. It's a great opportunity to interact with fellow parishioners. Please see Mary Reynolds or Perry Di Massa or call the boostore at (310) 519-8661 for more information. Thank you for prayerfully considering this minsitry to our parish and schools. 

To stay updated on our latest parish news and events, read Fr. Harrigan's weekly messages.

We are a warm and vibrant Catholic community whose mission is to bring the love of Jesus Christ to all we meet.

Here at Mary Star of the Sea you will find perhaps the most ethnically diverse parish in the entire Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Not only is Mass celebrated here in four languages (English, Spanish, Croatian and Italian) on Sunday, but the traditional ethnic celebrations and devotions of each group as well. Our beautiful church also contains a Perpetual Adoration Chapel (open 24 hours a day, seven days a week).

We are especially proud of our parish high school (9th through 12th grades), which recently expanded into sparkling, brand-new facilities, and of our elementary school (K through 8th grades), both of which are well-known and highly regarded throughout the area. Our Pre-School provides a fun, safe, Catholic environment for children 3-5 years old. Thousands more children have received an excellent formation in the Catholic faith from our Religious Education program or been nurtured in their faith by our Youth Ministry program.

Our outreach to the local area includes a Christian Care ministry, dedicated to serving the needs of the disadvantaged, and the Apostleship of the Sea, which ministers to sailors and those working at the nearby ports. We are also very proud of our newly revitalized Knights of Columbus council, as well as many other parish groups and societies.

If you would like to become better acquainted with us, or if you are interested in getting involved in one of our many ways of serving the community, please explore our website. Contact information for our parish staff, our schools, and all our outreach programs can be found on our site. We would be happy to help you in any way we can and we look forward to your involvement in our community.

https://giving.ncsservices.org/dl/?uid=ncs-3299