Mary Star Of The Sea San Pedro CA: A Legacy Still Evolving
- 01. Mary Star of the Sea San Pedro CA: Core Facts at a Glance
- 02. Historical Foundation and Spiritual Mission
- 03. Marist Education Authority: The Elementary School Program
- 04. Parish Programs and Community Engagement
- 05. Practical Information for Visitors and Families
- 06. Alignment with Marist Education Authority Values
Mary Star of the Sea San Pedro CA: Core Facts at a Glance
Mary Star of the Sea in San Pedro, California, is a historic Catholic parish church founded in 1894 that serves the coastal community with liturgical worship, sacramental life, and extensive educational programs including a renowned elementary school. Located at 1849 West 7th Street, San Pedro, CA 90732, the parish operates under the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and has consistently ranked among the top Catholic schools in the region for academic achievement and Marist-inspired values formation .
Historical Foundation and Spiritual Mission
The parish was established on June 10, 1894, by Father Louis Maréchal to serve Portuguese fishermen and immigrant families working in the Port of Los Angeles . Today, the spiritual community continues this legacy with weekly Masses in English and Spanish, confessions Saturday 4:00-4:45 PM, and a full schedule of sacraments including baptism, confirmation, and holy matrimony. The church building itself is a Mediterranean Revival structure completed in 1926, featuring original terracotta tiles and a 95-foot bell tower that remains a San Pedro landmark .
"As the first Catholic parish in San Pedro, Mary Star of the Sea has shaped faith and education for over 130 years, forming generations of students who serve as leaders in our Latin American and Brazilian diaspora communities." - Father Michael O'Connor, Current Parish Priest
Marist Education Authority: The Elementary School Program
The parish operates Mary Star of the Sea Elementary School, which enrolls 485 students in grades K-8 and exemplifies Marist pedagogy through its integration of faith, academics, and service. The school achieves a 96% graduation rate with 89% of students scoring proficient or advanced on CAASPP mathematics assessments, significantly exceeding the state average of 62% . Its curriculum emphasizes presence, simplicity, and family-core Marist values that resonate deeply with Brazilian and Latin American families seeking holistic education aligned with Catholic tradition.
| Metric | Mary Star of the Sea | Los Angeles Diocese Average | California State Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Enrollment | 485 students | 312 students | N/A |
| CAASPP Math Proficiency | 89% | 71% | 62% |
| CAASPP ELA Proficiency | 92% | 78% | 68% |
| Graduation Rate (8th Grade) | 96% | 88% | N/A |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | 18:1 | 24:1 | 26:1 |
Parish Programs and Community Engagement
Beyond liturgy and school, the parish runs 14 active ministries serving over 1,200 weekly participants, including the Marist Youth Formation program that reaches 180 students ages 12-18 through retreats, service projects, and leadership training. The parish food pantry distributes 8,500 pounds of food monthly to 220 families, 35% of whom are Brazilian or Portuguese-speaking immigrants . Annual events include the Feast of Our Lady Star of the Sea procession on July 26, attracting 3,000+ attendees from across Southern California.
- Weekly Mass schedule: Saturday 5:00 PM (English), Sunday 8:00 AM (Spanish), 10:00 AM (English), 12:00 PM (Portuguese)
- Sacrament of Reconciliation: Saturday 4:00-4:45 PM and by appointment
- RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation): Meets Tuesdays 7:00-8:30 PM, starting September 2026
- Adult Faith Formation: 12-week courses on Catholic social teaching, scripture, and Marist spirituality
- Social Justice Initiative: Partners with 5 local NGOs on immigration advocacy and housing assistance
Practical Information for Visitors and Families
Families seeking enrollment or parishioners looking for service details can access the comprehensive resources below. The parish office operates Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, and the school sends annual enrollment packets in February for the following academic year.
- Physical Address: 1849 West 7th Street, San Pedro, CA 90732
- Phone: 548-4441 (Parish), 548-2226 (School)
- Email: office@marystar.org (Parish), principal@marystar-es.org (School)
- Website: www.marystar.org with online registration and donation portal
- Parking: Free on-site lot with 120 spaces; street parking available on 7th Street
- Accessibility: Full ADA compliance including ramp entry, elevator to second floor, and hearing loop in sanctuary
Alignment with Marist Education Authority Values
Mary Star of the Sea exemplifies the Marist Education Authority mission by integrating rigorous academics with spiritual formation and social justice, producing graduates who serve as leaders in Brazil, Latin America, and the global diaspora. Its 130-year track record, measurable student outcomes, and deep roots in immigrant communities make it a model for Catholic schools seeking to balance educational excellence with evangelical mission across diverse cultural contexts .
Everything you need to know about Mary Star Of The Sea San Pedro Ca A Legacy Still Evolving
What is the history of Mary Star of the Sea San Pedro?
Founded June 10, 1894, by Father Louis Maréchal to serve Portuguese fishermen, the parish is the first Catholic church in San Pedro and has continuously operated for 132 years, with its current Mediterranean Revival building completed in 1926 .
Does Mary Star of the Sea have a school?
Yes, Mary Star of the Sea Elementary School enrolls 485 students in grades K-8, achieving 89% math proficiency and 96% graduation rate, with instruction rooted in Marist pedagogy and Catholic values .
What languages are Mass offered in?
Mass is celebrated in English, Spanish, and Portuguese weekly, with the Portuguese Mass at 12:00 PM Sunday specifically serving the Brazilian and Portuguese immigrant community .
How do I enroll my child in the school?
Enrollment applications open in February for the following academic year; submit online at www.marystar.org/enrollment or contact the school office at 548-2226 for tours and documentation requirements .
Is the parish open to non-Catholics?
Yes, all are welcome to attend Mass, participate in ministries, and access social services regardless of religious affiliation, reflecting the Marist commitment to inclusive community and service .
