Last month, there was a celebration in Hull for the Apostleship of the Sea, known internationally as Stella Maris (The Church’s organisation which provides pastoral care for seafarers). This title, Star of the Sea, has been in use since at least the early medieval period. Originally arising from a scribal error in a supposed etymology of the name Mary, it came to be seen as allegorical of Mary’s role as “guiding star” on the way to Christ. Under this name, the Virgin Mary is believed to intercede as a guide and protector of seafarers in particular; the Apostleship of the Sea, and many coastal churches are named Stella Maris or Star of the Sea.
“Hail Queen of Heaven, the Ocean Star” must be one of the most well-known hymns to English Catholics of all generations. I had the privilege of seeing the face of the author of this hymn at least three times each day for 10 years of my life as a student and the president of Ushaw College, Durham. The painting of John Lingard hung just outside of the refectory or dining hall, where he had been vice rector from the establishment of the college in 1808. He was a great historian and theologian and, as we can see from his hymn, a poet as well. At his death at the age of 80, according to his wishes, he was buried in the cemetery at the college.
This hymn is a lyrical translation of the ancient hymn to Our Lady, Ave Maris Stella, Hail, Star of the Sea. It is interesting to note that the sea has always had a great attraction for humankind. We are drawn either by its fascinating allure, or because of its dreadful force. Either way, we are aware that it is beyond our power to control the mighty power of the sea. Anyone who sets course upon the sea is wise to do so with respect and humility.
Sailors throughout the ages have called up the Higher Power to protect them and guard them. Thus Christian sailors throughout the ages have called upon the protection and intercession of Our Blessed Lady under the title of Star of the Sea. This beautiful hymn expresses succinctly and simply the needs, thoughts and aspirations of sailors from every country and background as they sail on the sea, and indeed of all Christians who find themselves upon the stormy waters of life.
Wherever we are, in whatever situation we might find ourselves, we need to know that we belong, that there is someone we can turn to, that we are welcomed, cherished and loved. We know that Jesus gave each one of us in every generation to the care of his blessed Mother in the person of his beloved disciple John as he stood with Mary at the foot of the Cross. Away from home for so long, cast upon the vastness and the unpredictability of the sea, sailors know that they can turn to Our Blessed Mother under the title of Star of the Sea and experience her motherly protection and care. All of us need to remember that we are her children and that she is constantly praying for us to the Father through Jesus her Son. With every generation of seafarers and with every generation of believers that has gone before us we can cry out in confidence: Do thou, bright Queen, Star of the sea, pray for thy children, pray for me.
Yours in Blessed Hope,