On this episode of the South Baltimore Now! podcast, Nate Carper interviews Father Kevin Ewing and Deacon Steve Sarnacki of the Catholic Community of South Baltimore to learn about St. Mary Star of the Sea church before it closes in November.
Produced by Nathan Carper: https://www.natecarpercreative.com
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St. Mary Star of the Sea
Show notes:
The Rich Legacy of St. Mary’s Star of the Sea: Voices from South Baltimore
In the heart of South Baltimore stands a beloved institution that has shaped countless lives and created a vibrant community—St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, a Catholic church that has been a cornerstone since its dedication in 1871. However, as cherished as this place of worship is, it will be closing its doors at the end of November, leaving a void in the hearts of many.
Today, we explore the impact, memories, and legacy of St. Mary’s through the voices of its community, featuring a heartfelt conversation with Father Kevin Ewing, the current pastor, and Steve Sarnacki, the deacon at the church.
A Glimpse into St. Mary’s History
St. Mary’s has been a beacon of spirituality and community in South Baltimore for over a century. From its beautiful architecture to the meaningful ceremonies held within its walls, this church has witnessed many significant milestones. Despite its imminent closure, the essence of St. Mary’s will live on, as Father Kevin reminds us, through the remaining Catholic churches on the peninsula, Our Lady of Good Counsel in Locust Point and Holy Cross in Federal Hill.
Father Kevin and Deacon Steve are both relatively new to South Baltimore—Father Kevin has been here for 14 months, and Deacon Steve for six. They are both deeply invested in ensuring that St. Mary’s legacy continues to influence and inspire the community.
Navigating Change and Preserving Memories
The closure of St. Mary’s is undoubtedly a challenging transition for its parishioners. Yet, the Catholic community is actively working to preserve the church’s rich legacy. Under Deacon Steve’s leadership, the St. Mary’s Legacy Preservation Team has initiated efforts to chronicle and honor the church’s past. One significant project includes the establishment of a memorial wall, created with the assistance of Charles Stevens Funeral Home. This platform allows community members to share their reflections, photos, and memories, ensuring they remain accessible to future generations.
Additionally, Father Kevin and Deacon Steve are hosting 10-minute interview sessions for parishioners and community members to share their stories and experiences related to St. Mary’s. These interviews will be part of the “Stella Maris Memories” audio podcast, capturing the heartfelt testimonials that define the church’s impact over the years.
Upcoming Events and Celebrations
Even as St. Mary’s prepares to close, several events are planned to commemorate its legacy and bring the community together. Regular Saturday evening liturgies at 4 PM are open to all, providing a time for reflection and celebration. Notably, a Mass of Thanksgiving is scheduled for Saturday, November 16th, at 4 PM, followed by a legacy reception at St. Ignatius Academy. The final mass for St. Mary’s will be held on Saturday, November 23rd, at 4 PM, marking the end of an era but also celebrating the enduring spirit of the community.
Personal Memories and Reflections
Father Kevin and Deacon Steve also shared some of their personal experiences and memories within the South Baltimore Catholic community. Father Kevin recounted his first time celebrating the Easter Triduum at St. Mary’s—a powerful spiritual experience that emphasized the church’s role in deepening faith.
Deacon Steve, reflecting on his time in the community, highlighted the unique camaraderie and authenticity that define South Baltimore. From memories of playing soccer at LaTrobe Park to participating in the “Blessing of the Backpacks” mass, he cherishes the genuine connections forged through shared community events.
Looking Forward
Despite the challenges posed by the closure of St. Mary’s, both Father Kevin and Deacon Steve are optimistic about the future. They emphasize the continuation of numerous community activities and initiatives, including religious education classes, Bible studies, and support groups. Moreover, as we approach the festive season, events like the annual Oktoberfest at Holy Cross and the celebration of the Feast of St. Mary’s Star of the Sea will bring people together to honor their shared heritage.
Father Kevin speaks poignantly about the mission of the church: to make disciples and carry forward the teachings of Jesus Christ. This mission remains steadfast, even without the physical presence of St. Mary’s, as the community strives to be a beacon of hope and love in South Baltimore.
Conclusion
As we reflect on the rich history and enduring legacy of St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, it’s clear that this beloved church has left an indelible mark on the community. Through the memories shared and the initiatives undertaken, St. Mary’s spirit will live on, continuing to inspire and uplift the people of South Baltimore.
We invite you to join us in these final celebrations and to contribute your own memories to the memorial wall or podcast. Together, we can honor a legacy that has touched so many lives for over a century.
Nate Carper and Kevin Lynch
