Maris Stella Retreat & Conference Center

09/12/2026

All summer: pizza crusts, boardwalk fries, and dropped snacks

Now:
“Wait… we have to catch our own food again???”

The seagulls of LBI are officially back on their natural diet…
and not everyone is adjusting well.

Some habits are hard to break.

09/11/2026

Final Scheduled Mass of the season
Saturday, September 12th at 5:00PM

09/11/2026

“No day shall erase you from the memory of time.” — Virgil

On this day of remembrance, we hold in our hearts all who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. We also remember the families who carry the weight of that loss, the first responders who gave so much of themselves, and all whose lives were forever changed.

This quote reminds us that their lives, their sacrifice, and their memory endure. Let us take a moment today to pray for those who died, for those who mourn, for those who served with courage, and for peace in our world.

09/11/2026

Twenty-five years later, the light still rises where so much was lost.
We remember the lives, the courage, and the unity that carried so many through that day and the days that followed.
May we continue to hold one another in compassion, choosing peace in the midst of a world that still needs it.

09/10/2026

God Bless America 🇺🇸

We share “Emptiness,” a reflection by the late Sister Jean Ruppel.

A void in the skyline over New York City; the horizon holds an eerie emptiness. Majestic twin towers can no longer capture the eye of the beholder. The Empire State building holds a lonesome spot. Its companions gone to nothingness but dust and rubble.

A nation grieves for those whose lives were senselessly, viciously snuffed out. Pained expressions are on the many faces – who didn’t know their last good-byes were already said earlier that day. September 11, 2001 marked a day in U.S. history that all wished had never dawned.

Yet there is always hope as God’s constant love and mercy surround us. And Lady Liberty still stands in the harbor as a reminder: We are a free people. God bless America.

09/10/2026

Stay Connected All Year!

Would you like to receive updates on upcoming retreats, special liturgies, and moments of prayer at Maris Stella?

Simply scan the QR code and send us a quick email to be added to our list.
We’d love to keep you connected to the peace and beauty of the shore all year long. Or email [email protected]

09/10/2026

With appreciation to Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol and all lifeguards for their dedication to keeping us safe. Thank you!

Be like a lifeguard…
present, steady, and quietly looking out for others.

There’s a quiet strength in paying attention, offering help, and being a calm presence when it matters most.

Sometimes just being there makes all the difference.

09/09/2026

A simple offering during Eucharistic Adoration, light, flowers, and prayer.
In this sacred stillness, we remember, we entrust, and we find peace.

09/08/2026

Holy Hour for Peace …All are welcome.
September 9th at 3:30pm
7202 Long Beach Blvd
Bayside Chapel
Harvey Cedars, NJ
609.494.1152

09/08/2026

On September 8, we celebrate the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a humble beginning that opened the way for grace to enter the world.

Mary’s birth reminds us that even the smallest, most hidden moments can hold God’s greatest plans.

May we trust, like Mary, that our own lives are part of something beautiful unfolding.