Catholic Maritime Ministry of Mobile: Ministry celebrates 80 years of service to seafarers

Submitted by Deacon John Archer
On March 17, 1945, in the midst of World War II, a new ministry opened its doors in Mobile at the corner of Conti and South Claiborne streets. 
With Archbishop Thomas J. Toolen’s blessing, financial support from the War Relief Services directed by Fr. Edward Swanstrom in New York and two years of planning, the Catholic Maritime Club of Mobile opened its doors. Originally, the primary focus was on U.S. merchant seafarers boarding ships in Mobile. The club provided lodging, food, entertainment and both spiritual and emotional support to all seafarers. 
The first director of the ministry was Gerald Strang who, along with his wife Margaret, ministered for 40 years. On many levels, it was a ministry of love. The ministry continued through the years directed by Deacon Ray Vrazel and Deacon Joe Connick with the help and support of volunteers. 
As time went on, the ministry changed locations and personnel, but the focus on seafarers has always remained the same. Today, the legacy of the ministry that started in 1945 continues. Since Sept. 11, port security has radically changed how seafarers access the city, ultimately leading to the closure of the seafarer center. Today, as part of the global Church, the ministry is known as Stella Maris, with the Virgin Mary as the patroness. A team of volunteers makes 1,200 ship visits, transports 1,500 seafarers and lends Wi-Fi units that allow communication with families. Most importantly, the ministry is the presence of the Church, their Church, in Mobile, providing onboard Mass or communion services, or transport to the Cathedral-Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in downtown Mobile to attend Sunday Mass.
All are thankful for the financial support of Catholic Charities as well as the support of various parishes, ministries and individuals that allow volunteers to welcome the visiting seafarers. 
As one seafarer recently said, “Thank you for taking the time to come to visit us.”
Words from Matthew 25 come to mind: “Lord, when were you a stranger…or in prison? The king will reply, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:38-40). 
The reply to Catholic Maritime Club would be “I was a stranger in your port and I was imprisoned onboard with no shore pass and you visited me.”