“God’s gift to the San Pedro fishermen.” That’s what some called the record tuna catch of 1989. Today we explore Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church. It is a beacon of hope for the fishing community of San Pedro. This church is more than just a building. It’s a testament to faith, perseverance, and the deep connection between a community and its spiritual home.
Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church has stood overlooking the Port of Los Angeles since 1889. The church has been a guiding light for generations of fishermen and their families. For this reason it’s often called the “Fishermen’s Parish.” Originally, the first church was a small wooden structure. A larger church was built in 1905. In 1958, the present church was erected, the third one to serve the parish.
The church’s history is interwoven with the lives of Croatian and Italian fishermen. They were the heart of San Pedro’s fishing and cannery industry. These families built their lives around the harbor. They built their homes, their businesses, and this church. Even now, the descendants of these families continue to worship at Mary Star of the Sea.
But times changed. The fishing industry declined in the 1980s. Canneries closed and foreign competition increased. Despite these challenges, Mary Star of the Sea remained a constant presence. The annual blessing of the fleet was a tradition. Fishermen sought God’s blessing for a bountiful harvest and safety at sea.
The “miracle” of 1989 brought a moment of joy. Fishermen hauled in a record catch of giant Pacific bluefin tuna. It was an unprecedented bounty that revitalized the community. Fishermen attributed their good fortune to divine intervention. They saw it as a reward for their faith and perseverance. The church collections increased noticeably.
The symbol of Mary Star of the Sea is the bronze statue of Mary atop the bell tower. Her arms are outstretched toward the Port of Los Angeles. The fishermen gifted the statue. It serves as a beacon for those entering and leaving the harbor.
Other details inside the church reflect its maritime connections. A statue of Mary cradles a tuna clipper. A mosaic of Mary stands on ocean waves. The words “Stella Maris” are written below. They are a sign of hope since the fifth century. A stained-glass window depicts Jesus speaking to fishermen in a boat.
Mary Star of the Sea has faced controversy. In 1986, a pregnant student was initially barred from graduation. But the Archbishop intervened, emphasizing compassion and support.
Through it all, Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church has remained a symbol of hope. It represents faith, community, and the enduring spirit of San Pedro’s fishing families. The church is a testament to their unwavering belief in the Virgin Mary. She guides and protects them as they navigate the stormy seas of life. Father Harrigan, the pastor of Mary Star of the Sea Church, also oversees the Stella Maris Chapel. It is a maritime ministry at Berth 93.