St Mary Star of the Sea....."Since it first shed it's light in Key West it has like a star of the sea to the wandering mariner, been a star of hope and comfort in times of despair and sorrow and a star of joy to those who have lived in it's teachings"
The Star of the Sea Catholic Church....so pretty, we always make a point of riding our bikes over, walking the grounds and peeking in the doors, between Mass. It is considered the oldest Catholic Parish in South Florida.
On October 25,1901, Father Friend S.J. purchased a parcel of land for $8,000, on Windsor Lane. The new Catholic Church was dedicated on August 20, 1905. The stone blocks used to build the church were cut from the coral rock, dug from the ground where the church stands.
On May 25, 1922 Sister Gabriel designed a Grotto out of natural rock which was gathered on the school grounds just adjacent to the church. Sister Gabriel had survived three major, devastating storms ( 1909,1910 and 1919) in Key West. She built the Grotto to seek protection from Our Blessed Mother Mary against any further storms or hurricanes. She said, "Key West would never experience the full brunt of a hurricane as long as the Grotto stood". There has not been a devastating storm on the island since that time, 1922!
When you visit the Grotto you will find many candles lit with prayers for protection of Key West. It is a very touching memorial.
A very pretty "Star of the Sea" by Mediaeval Baebes, click on Grooveshark
I've been to that church. Its very pretty.
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