Stella Maris-Philippines has new nat’l director

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has appointed the Fr. Jose Conrado Estafia of the Diocese of Talibon as national director of Stella Maris–Philippines, the Church’s apostolate to the maritime community.

Estafia succeeds Fr. John Mission of the Archdiocese of Cebu, who has served in the post since 2023.

He brings direct experience to the role, having served as chaplain of Stella Maris–Talibon.

The appointment is for a standard three-year term, renewable at the discretion of the CBCP.

“The appointment marks a significant leadership transition for the Church’s primary pastoral arm dedicated to the welfare of the people of the sea,” the Stella Maris – Philippines said.

As national director, Estafia will oversee and coordinate the ministry’s nationwide operations. Stella Maris, also known as the Apostleship of the Sea, provides spiritual, pastoral and welfare services to maritime communities.

He will work closely with Bishop Ruperto Santos of Antipolo and the CBCP’s bishop-promoter for Stella Maris–Philippines.

Stella Maris is a global Catholic charity operating in ports worldwide.

In the Philippines, its ministry provides pastoral care and services to seafarers, fishers, maritime students, port personnel and their families, addressing challenges such as isolation, unsafe working conditions and family separation. (CBCP News)

A version of this article was first published by CBCP News.