Today we did a sleep-in and decided to go to mass in Pictou at the Stella Maris Catholic Church. When we walked into the church the musical director was playing on the piano near the sacristy and there was background music accompanying him. I finally came to the conclusion that they had stereo speakers were the extra music was coming from and it filled the church from top to bottom an in every niche. This is the second church we attended that had the same name. Stella Maris is Latin, and translates to ‘Star of the Sea.’
The apostleship of the Sea, a Catholic Church organization for the support of sailors, is also known as Stella Maris. “Stella Maris’ is the name by which many seafarers know the Apostleship of the Sea. This is because many of AOS seafarers’ clubs and hostels around the world are named ‘Stella Maris’, in honor of our patron, Our Lady Stella Maris.
'Stella Maris', 'Star of the Sea', is an ancient title for Our Lady, used by seafarers and others associated with the sea. Just as seafarers have traditionally depended on the stars for navigation, so they trust in the protection and guidance of Our Lady."
The singing in this was just amazing because the parishioners sang with real gusto. We have never attended a church with such participation from the parishioners. The choir was in a few rows at the front of church and the male voices filled the whole church. Such enthusiasm is wonderful.
After mass we went to the harbor for lunch and then walked to the curling club because they still had the Farmers Market in the building. I had seen some prints which were perfect as a small souvenir by purchasing a 5 x 7 card which I can frame and put in the R.V.
While we were in the Market, Walt asked one of the ladies sitting at a booth about the curling club. Well, he hit pay dirt. Joyce and her husband had a booth with wooden utensils and machine embroidered items. She had been an avid curler. She explained how they put an inch of ice on the floor from October to March each year. They had 3 lanes with a elevated walkway around the outside walls of the building. She also showed us the curling stone weighed 42 pounds of granite with a handle on it. She said they never lift the stone but only set it on the side so it moves only on a thin ridge which is under the stone. She was so vibrant and really could answer all our questions.
After our curling lesson we went back home and spent the afternoon with no special activities scheduled. We have gotten things ready for our move in the morning and are watching the only TV station we can get with our antenna.
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