119 Hastings, UK – St Mary, Star of the Sea : I recognize that lamb

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119 Hastings, UK – St Mary, Star of the Sea : I recognize that lamb

This is the local parish church (built in 1882) I visited with my friend Franco, when I came down to see him in Hastings after we had not seen each other for 30 years (the wonders of Facebook !). Highlight was the lamb pictured here which was made many years ago by Franco’s children.

Intricate dark-wood stations of the cross, and a painting of the sea at Hastings with some saint or other I think.

According to wikipedia «  “Star of the Sea” as a title has been in use since at least the early medieval period. Purportedly arising from a scribal error in a supposed etymology of the name Mary, it came to be seen as allegorical of Mary's role as "guiding star" on the way to Christ. Under this name, the Virgin Mary is believed to intercede as a guide and protector of seafarers in particular. Many coastal churches are named Stella Maris or Star of the Sea.

«In the twelfth century, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux wrote: "If the winds of temptation arise; if you are driven upon the rocks of tribulation look to the star, call on Mary. If you are tossed upon the waves of pride, of ambition, of envy, of rivalry, look to the star, call on Mary”.» 




































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