WASHINGTON, D.C. — On May 22, National Maritime Day will be observed, honoring the significant contributions and sacrifices of individuals working on the high seas. This year, the Catholic Church’s observance includes a special focus on the ministry of Stella Maris (Star of the Sea), an apostolate dedicated to supporting people in the maritime industry. Bishop Brendan J. Cahill of Victoria in Texas, the U.S. bishop-promoter for Stella Maris, is urging the community to remember and pray for those who make their living at sea, including merchant mariners, fishermen, and port personnel.
In light of the recent tragedy on March 26, when the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed following a collision with the cargo ship Dali, this year’s National Maritime Day will carry a poignant significance. Bishop Cahill has called for prayers of remembrance for all affected by this disaster, particularly highlighting the loss of six construction workers and extending thoughts to their grieving families.
A Mass dedicated to the Day of Prayer and Remembrance for Mariners and People of the Sea is set to be held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., on Saturday, May 18 at 12:10 p.m. The event underscores the Church’s commitment to providing support and pastoral care to those impacted by maritime accidents, including the recent bridge collapse.
Following the incident, the Stella Maris network, known for its global outreach to seafarers, swiftly mobilized its chaplains and partners to offer pastoral care and support to the crew of the Dali and other vessels docked in the Port of Baltimore. The tragedy has not only affected those directly involved but also the broader community of dockworkers and individuals dependent on the Port of Baltimore for employment.
Bishop Cahill highlighted the universal challenges faced by those at sea, acknowledging their hard work and dedication. He expressed hope that the intercession of Our Lady, Star of the Sea, would bring protection and guidance to all those who brave the high seas for their livelihood.
“Each year, we pray for those who work on the high seas and the ports. In a special way this year, we remember those who have been impacted by the collapse of the Key Bridge, particularly the six construction workers who perished in the bridge collapse, and for their families as they mourn the loss of their loved ones,” said Bishop Cahill.
“And we also pray for the captain and crew of the cargo ship, and the countless people who have been working in the aftermath of the tragedy, including the U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, dive teams, first responders, construction workers, law enforcement, and government officials. Still impacted are also the thousands of dockworkers and those who rely for work in the Port of Baltimore. Worldwide, there are countless men and women who labor on the high seas for their livelihood — let us seek the intercession of Our Lady, Star of the Sea, that she protect and guide us,” he continued.
This year’s National Maritime Day serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by maritime workers and the importance of community and faith-based support in times of tragedy.
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