Mary Star of the Sea Parish

Adult Sacraments

Sessions in preparation for the reception of Confirmation and/or First Communion will begin on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 in the Auditorium – 7:00 to 8:30 pm.  All state guidelines will be followed – sanitizing, social distancing and mask wearing.  To register call 310-833-3541 ext. 221,222.



 

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The Church is Open

Masses will now be held inside of the church.  Places of worship in Los Angeles County can resume services inside their buildings, after public health officials modified an order that previously banned indoor church gatherings.  The county's Department of Public Health Officer released the revised order on Saturday Dec. 19th, which allows churches to host indoor and outdoor services "provided that strict physical distancing is followed, which requires a minimum of six feet between persons from different households."  "Face coverings or masks that cover both the nose and mouth must be worn at all times while on site," the order states.  The change was in response to the Supreme Court ordering lower courts in the state to reconsider restrictions on church services.
Read the full news story

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Thank you to everyone who helped make the Christian Care Christmas food-giveaway a success!  Many families in San Pedro will enjoy a Merry Christmas because of you!
 

No More Donations
At this time, Christian Care is no longer able to accept donations of any clothing, baby items, or household goods.  Thank you for your generosity in the past!
 

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Stella Maris Gift and Bookstore

We wish you a blessed Christmas and healthy and happy New Year.

The bookstore is now closed for an undetermined length of time.  We thank all who have supported us in our goal of supporting our schools and look forward to serving you again soon.

Prayers to all.

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Mary Star of the Sea Elementary’s Preschool

Mary Star of the Sea Elementary’s Preschool is open for students that are at least 3 years old and are potty trained.  Students will be in one of three classes, with no more than 10 students and 1 teacher throughout the day.  They will participate in learning activities while following safety guidelines to help keep everyone healthy.  The preschool provides quality education program that is safe, instructional and fun!  To learn more about our programs please visit our website or contact our Preschool Director, Mrs. Beth Castagnola at 310-833-3541 x228 or marystarpreschool@gmail.com.

 

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Mass Intentions 2020-2021

The Mass Intention Book for 2020-2021 is now open.

To schedule a Mass Intention, please call the parish office between 9:00a.m. - 4:00p.m. at (310)833-3541 ext. 200.  The Mass Intentions will be scheduled on a first-come, first- served basis.  In order to accommodate everyone, there is a limit of 2 Masses per family.  We thank you for your consideration and understanding.
 

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Knights of Columbus

Join the Knights of Columbus today!  Visit our website at https://www.kofc.org/

One Life L.A. 2021
on January 23, 2021

Please join us in the Virtual Presentation and visit the website https://onelifela.org for more information and Covid19 precautions.  More than ever, we can celebrate the joy of living and honor the beauty in every human life.  Place a "One Life LA" sign in your yard.  Signs can be ordered on the OneLife LA web site now.

On Saturday January 9th join us at 7:30am for First Saturday devotional.  We pray the rosary while meditating on the Joyful Mysterys in honor of The Immaculate Heart of Mary.


The Knights of Columbus Council 1740
The Knights of Columbus will still continue our Parish Leadership services as we have in the past years.  We look forward to sharing information and related materials with you as the events are available.  Please look for our tables and thank you to all who have shown support and to those who have participated in our events in the past.  We look forward to working with you as our best years are yet to come.  God Bless You!

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Mary Star High School Shoe Drive Fundraiser

Mary Star High School Athletic Booster Club is participating in a shoe drive.  If you have gently used shoes (of all types not just athletic shoes) that you would like to donate, please place them in the marked collection bin located just outside of the gift shop on your way out of Mass.  Call MSHS if you have any questions at 310-547-1138.

View the flyer
 

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Mary Star High School Information Evening

This year our Information Evening has gone virtual.  You can find the link to the prerecorded event on the main page of www.marystarhigh.com, under Latest News.  This is a great opportunity for prospective public and private school students and their parents to learn about the challenging and dynamic programs offered at Mary Star of the Sea High School.  For more information or questions, contact the main office at 310-547-1138.
 

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Mary Star High School Family Campus Tours

Prospective students and parents have the opportunity to take a family tour of our beautiful facility.  See the campus and learn more about what Mary Star of the Sea High School has to offer.  Tour appointments are available from 8:30am - 1:30pm, Mondays through Thursdays.  Please contact the school registrar at 310-547-1130 to make an appointment time.
 

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Mary Star High School Now Accepting Applications

MSHS is open and accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year.  Although we have been ordered by our Governor to open school with distance learning, MSHS is committed to offering in-person classes as soon as this order is lifted.  Whether in the classroom or over the internet, Mary Star of the Sea High School will continue its Mission as a Catholic High School in truly caring for our students’ entire well-being:  mind, body and soul.  MSHS will continue to adhere to all health and safety practices recommended by local county health departments and the Department of Catholic Schools in an effort to keep our students, faculty and parents healthy.  Please visit www.marystarhigh.com or call 310-547-1138 for information and applications.  Main Office hours are from 8am – 2:30pm Monday through Thursday, and 8am – 12:30pm on Friday.
 

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Mary Star High School Mobile App, Instagram and Facebook!

Stay up to date with the latest MSHS news at the tips of your fingers!  Download the app today by going to Apple App Store or Google Play.  Also, follow us on Instagram@marystarhighschool and Facebook@MaryStarHigh.  Stay up to date with Mary Star of the Sea High School news and information at marystarhigh.com.
 

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Join Sacred Heart Kids’ Club!  It is Virtual!

A unique Catholic Club for children grades 3– 8 on Thursday afternoons.

Grow in friendship with Jesus through lessons, prayer, games, crafts, singing, and other fun activities lead by the Sacred Heart Sisters at the Heart of Jesus Retreat Center via Zoom.

Sign up now - registration is online at the following link:
www.sacredheartsisters.com/retreats
For more information:  call 714-557-4538 or email shkc.rc@gmail.com

 

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Perpetual Adoration

Please pray that our Perpetual Adoration Chapel might reopen sometime soon.

Sadly, the pandemic has brought many changes in everyone’s life yet we can remain strong in prayer through attendance at Mass and Rosaries from home.

If, in the future, you would wish to become an enrolled Adorer, please contact me for more details.

“Almighty God, help us to seek You and speak with You often. Let us strive to avoid outer distractions and concentrate on Your message and Your Will.”
- St. Charles Borromeo

Thank you.  I can be reached at (310)548-1693.  Barbara West (Coordinator)

 

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Cluny Sisters Say Goodbye

Dear Friends and Parishioners of Mary Star,
    As we, the Cluny Sisters, are moving from the convent, we are recalling hundreds of memories from the last eleven years, and we are filled with an overwhelming gratitude to God and to you.  In these years, we have shared friendships, joys, sorrows, and so many different parish events with you.  As we move on, we thank God for all the graces and blessings we have received from and through you.
    We will be living on the grounds of Jeanne Jugan Residence—2100 S. Western Ave., here in San Pedro.  As always, our hearts and doors are open to you.
    “Farewell, and pray for us, and we shall pray for you, and for all your friends, that we may merrily meet in heaven.” (St.Thomas More)
With our prayers for God’s continual blessings, our fond memories and grateful love,
Sisters Ena, Loretto, Mary Josephine, Mary Patrice and Genevieve
 

 

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Are you an adult who has never been baptized or was baptized in another faith tradition?  Are you a baptized Catholic who has lapsed from the practice of your faith?  Are you a baptized Catholic who has never received your first communion and/or confirmation?  Do you have an older child who was never baptized?

Each of these situations are unique and different but they something in common:  they all describe a personal journey and a desire to come closer to Jesus and to the Church.  If you need further information,  please call Sister Mary 310-833-3541, ext. 222.
 

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Visit our website by clicking on:  https://www.icf.org/membership/join/.
Take a few minutes to explore online and learn more about the ICF.  For the better part of the last century, we have offered Catholic men and women of all ages a unique opportunity to celebrate their faith, family and heritage together while making a real difference in the world we live in.  We invite you to join us!
San Pedro  #115
Mary Star of the Sea
Neal Di Leva:  (310) 833-9444
 

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Currently ongoing


Click here to view larger diagram and directions.


You can click on this link to visit the e-Giving website.

 

 

Available Livestream Masses
L.A. Archdiocese has 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.
 

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

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Did You Know?  Sabia Usted?

DID YOU KNOW?

Words can be warning signs of abuse

Many children will be learning in their own homes this fall, but that does not mean they will be fully protected from abuse.  Sadly, most children are abused by someone considered to be a “known and trusted” person – that person may be a family member – even someone living in the same house as the child.  Pay attention to the conversations your children are having, as words can be indicators that a child is being groomed or harmed.  If your child or their friend(s) seem to “know” more about sexual topics than would be expected for their age, or seems unusually focused on such topics, it could be an indicator that something inappropriate and harmful is happening.  Talk to your child about it, reassuring them that it is both important and safe to tell you what is happening.  For more information on this topic, visit https://lacatholics.org/did-you-know/.

 

Las palabras pueden ser señales de alerta de abuso

Muchos niños estarán aprendiendo desde sus propios hogares este otoño, pero eso no significa que estarán completamente protegidos de abuso.  Lamentablemente, la mayoría de los niños son abusados por alguien que se considera una persona “conocida y de confianza”, que pudiera ser un miembro de la familia, y que hasta puede vivir en la misma casa que el niño o niña.  Preste atención a las conversaciones de sus hijos, ya que las palabras pueden ser indicadores de que un niño está siendo abusado o dañado sexualmente.  Si su hijo/a o sus amigos parecen “saber” más sobre temas sexuales de lo que se espera para su edad, o parecen inusualmente enfocados en esos temas, esto puede ser indicador de que algo inapropiado o dañino está sucediendo.  Hable con sus hijos sobre estos temas, asegurándoles que es importante y seguro que ellos le digan lo que está sucediendo.  Para obtener más información sobre este tema, visite https://lacatholics.org/did-you-know/.

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Farewell to Fr. Raja

We here at Mary Star say Farewell to Fr. Raja Selvam, who will be moving the week to Chicago to pursue his Doctorate.  We wish him well and thank him for all his Ministry here at our parish.






 

Weekly Holy Hour Postponed

 

 

Beware of Scammers

The latest e-mail & text scams of Cyber-Scammers are targeting L.A. Archdiocese parishes & schools.  Unscrupulous individuals are creating e-mail accounts with usernames similar to the names of parish priests, and sending out phony e-mails to parishioners asking for gift cards.

Please click on the link to view the flyer.

For more information, and to stay up-to-date about the latest cyber-security threats impacting L.A. Archdiocese locations, visit http://archla.org/avoidscam or https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts.

Please report scam text messages involving your parish or school to helpdesk@la-archdiocese.org.


 

The STAR Connection

Mary Star of the Elemenatry has launched "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

 

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Mary Star of the Sea Preschool

Registration is now open for the 2020-2021 school year for 3-5 year olds who are fully potty trained.  Our preschool program is year round, part– and full– time.  Come over and take a tour!  

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.

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 visit our website or call our office at (310)831-0875 to arrange for a tour and information.
 

Please click on this link to view the flyer.
 

High School ApplicationsThe 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.
 

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Classes to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion begins 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.

 

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.

 

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Relevant Radio 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.

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!
 

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.)

 

Stations of the Cross are Online!

 

The Stations Of The Cross on Fridays 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.

 

Lectio Divina is Online

Lectio Divina can be done online at various Facebook pages.  We are not meeting in person at this time.  We extend an invitation to all who would like to join our Lectio Divina group.  We would normally 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.

 

St. Vincent De Paul Society

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






 

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 (Postponed)

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.

 

40 Days for LifeTake a stand for life.  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



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.

 

¿Estás sufriendo en tu matrimonio?  ¿Tiene problemas para comunicarse, discusiones más frecuentes, distancia entre usted y su cónyuge, o cada uno sigue su propio camino?  No estás solo.  Retrouvaille, un ministerio matrimonial de parejas brinda ayuda para matrimonios con problemas.  Para obtener más información sobre Retrouvaille y su programa para ayudar a las parejas que sufren.  Recupera la alegría de tu matrimonio.  ¡Tú matrimonio vale la pena! Retrouvaille comienza con una experiencia de fin de semana.  Aprende las herramientas para comunicarse de manera más efectiva como pareja.  Retrouvaille en Español Valle de San Fernando ha ayudado a parejas a aprender las herramientas para restaurar la intimidad y la comunicación en su relación.  Por favor llame a Armando/Sonia Jimenez al 818-266-1447.  Visite HelpOurMarriage.org.
Email: soniajimenezc@yahoo.com
 

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 MennitiPlease 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!

 

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.

Bookstore Hours:
Wednesday 
2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
(when school is in session) 

Sunday
8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

  
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. 

 

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

Mass Intentions

Click here to view Mass Intentions for
August 1-9, 2020

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

@MaryStarSanPedro