Guardian of the Church, Protector of Priests, Terror of Demons

Guardian of the Church, Protector of Priests, Terror of Demons © Lawrence Klimecki

A sketch for a new commission, Saint Joseph, Guardian of the Church, Protector of Priests, Terror of Demons.

Those Who Go to the Sea in Ships

"They that go down to the sea in ships, doing business in the great waters: These have seen the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep." Psalm 107:23-24

This Sunday, July 10, is "Sea Sunday" in which we recognize the apostolate that serves the maritime industry.

Stella Maris ©Lawrence Klimecki

“Stella Maris” (“Star of the Sea”) has long been the favorite title by which people of the sea have called on her in whose protection they have always trusted: the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her son, Jesus Christ, accompanied his disciples in their vessels, helped them in their work and calmed the storms. And so the Church accompanies seafarers, caring for the special spiritual needs of those who for various reasons live and work in the maritime world."

Apostolic Letter Motu Proprio Stella Maris on the Maritime Apostolate, 1997

Mary as "Stella Maris," the Star of the Sea, is a reminder that whatever troubles we encounter in our life, on land or on sea, Mary and the Church are always with us, pointing to the light of Christ, to guide us to a safe harbor and keep us securly anchored during the storm.

click on thumbnail image for an explanation of the symbols used in this work"O Mary, Star of the Sea, light of every ocean, guide
seafarers across all dark and stormy seas that they
may reach the haven of peace and light prepared in
Him who calmed the sea.

As we set forth upon the oceans of the world and
cross the deserts of our time, show us, O Mary, the
fruit of your womb, for without your Son we are lost.

Pray that we will never fail on life's journey, that in
heart and mind, in word and deed, in days of turmoil
and in days of calm, we will always look to Christ and
say, "Who is this that even wind and sea obey him?"

Bright Star of the Sea, guide us!

Prints of this work may be purchased by clicking here.

What is the Mission of the Church?

Before He ascends to the Father, Jesus breathes on His Apostles and imparts to them the Holy Spirit. Then just before His Ascension He tells them to wait for the Holy Spirit to come upon them. Are they receiving the Spirit twice?

Click to read more ...