“Stella Maris” means Star of the Sea in Latin. The Igreja Stella Maris is more than just a church. It’s a beacon of faith in Porto.
Igreja Stella Maris stands as a testament to the enduring presence of the Catholic Church in Porto. It is located on Rua de Gondarém in the Foz do Douro area. The Igreja Stella Maris serves as a focal point for Catholic worship.
Let’s delve into the story of the Igreja Stella Maris. The Carmelitas Descalços or Discalced Carmelites play a significant role. This order has a rich history in Porto. In 1616, King Duarte Correia de Sousa granted them permission to found three monasteries. These were in Porto, Viana, and Tomar.
The Definitório Geral da Ordem approved the founding of the Carmo convent in 1617. Fathers Tomás de S. Cirilo and Sebastião da Ressurreição were sent to Porto. They were hosted by D. Diogo Lopes de Sousa. He was the Governor of the city. Securing the Bishop’s approval was difficult. Other religious congregations feared losing revenue.
Despite the challenges, Fr. Paulo da Trindade and ten others began their regular life. They started in a rented house on Rua de S. Miguel on June 15, 1617. They soon sought a permanent location. They chose properties near the old Olival gates outside the city walls.
Bishop D. Rodrigo da Cunha laid the first stone on May 5, 1619. This was met with great applause. The church was partially occupied in 1622. Its inauguration took place on July 16, 1628. Initially for professed religious members, it later became a study center. Students would then go to Brazil and Angola.
During the French invasion in 1809, the convent was occupied by troops. They mistreated the religious members. After the defeat of the French, the convent was in poor condition. Part of it was occupied by Portuguese and English troops until 1814. The religious members shared the space peacefully.
In 1833, the liberal regime was established. Religious mentalities struggled with the change. An investigation reduced the number of religious members to eleven. As a result, the convent was extinguished.
The restoration of the Discalced Carmelites in Porto is attributed to Dr. Sebastião Pereira. He was a benefactor of the Carmelo de Santa Teresinha. He facilitated the Carmelites’ return to Porto. The Carmelites re-entered Porto on August 6, 1936. Fathers Joaquim de S. Teresa and Fr. Jaime de S. José stayed in the Foz do Douro.
In 1971, a new four-story building began construction. A chapel was built in the underground area. The Order’s Government in Portugal was installed there. The Foz area grew. A larger community became necessary. Land was acquired on Rua de Gondarém.
In 1986, the new facilities were inaugurated. The Pastoral Sector promotes catechesis and youth groups. The Cultural Sector houses a music school and a senior university.
Today, the Igreja Stella Maris continues its mission. It serves the community through worship and various activities. It stands as a testament to faith. It’s a place of community in the heart of Porto. The Igreja Stella Maris has come a long way.