I’ve never heard of the Seafarers Center downtown before until Fr. Francis Makut told me about it and as the chaplain there, he mentioned that a painting of Our Lady would look great there. Since he is also the pastor of Our Lady Star of the Sea – I felt that’s how I would depict Mother Mary to let the visiting seafarers know of her loving protection and guidance. Also, what touched my heart was knowing that most of the Seafarers who visit there are from the Philippines 
After Adoration, the image of the Blessed Mother as the Star of the Sea came quickly. It was a joy to paint it. So on July 13, at the Corpus Christi Seafarer’s Center, my husband and I attended the mass that Bishop Bishop Mario A. Avilés, C.O., celebrated and he blessed the painting. A truly humbling moment. It was also the first time I met Bp Mario Avilés and joyfully took a selfie with him.
About the painting:
“Our Lady Star of the Sea”
Oil on Linen, 30″x40″
July 13, 2026
Merci F. McCoy
All glory and honor belongs to God. Our Lady Star of the Sea, protect all seafarers worldwide and please pray for us.
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