Stella Maris (seafarers' ministry)

Stella Maris is an international agency of the Catholic Church that provides pastoral care to seafarers, other maritime workers, and their families.

[3] In 1891 the Apostleship of Prayer first posted devotional magazines and books from Wimbledon College to twelve ships and began enrolling seafarers in a Catholic association.

Two years later, The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul commenced visiting seafarers in the ports of Bristol, Sunderland, and Tyneside.

Subsequently, through changes in technology crews became smaller and spent less time in port resulting in a reduced need for hostels so most contact is now through ships visits and drop-in centres.

A world congress held by the international office ensures this connection between countries and disseminates the pontifical council's policies every 5 years.

[7] Stella Maris also works with the Santa Marta Group to assist seafarers and fishermen who have been trafficked or exploited, in situations of modern slavery.

[citation needed] In the Diocese of St. Augustine in Florida, Stella Maris operates seafarer centers at the Talleyrand and Blount Island terminals in Jacksonville.