Star of the Sea Catholic Church — Church Directory

Quick Facts

Pastor — the shepherd God holds accountable Rev. Esteban De Leon (Pastor)

Founded Early 20th century (first Catholic parish in Princess Anne County/Virginia Beach)

Denomination Roman Catholic

Service Times Multiple Sunday and weekday Masses — see parish website

Men's Ministry Yes

Kids Ministry Yes

Website www.staroftheseaparish.com

Pastor Credentials Roman Catholic ordained (Diocese of Richmond)

10-Point Theological Scorecard

Christology

Is Jesus the only way? (John 14:6)

Orthodox Trinitarian; affirms Apostles/Nicene Creed.

Strong

Scripture

Inerrancy affirmed? Final authority?

Scripture + Sacred Tradition + Magisterium co-equal.

Caution

Men's Discipleship

Intentional formation for men?

Knights of Columbus not confirmed on homepage; verify.

Caution

Soteriology

Faith alone? How is salvation presented?

Council of Trent anathematized sola fide — First Reconciliation & Eucharist listed as sacraments confirms Roman Catholic sacramental soteriology.

WARNING!

Gender / Biblical Design

Biblical manhood and womanhood by God's design — patriarchal, complementarian, egalitarian, or affirming gender ideology?

Male-only priests; Marian/saint veneration (Stella Maris devotion).

Male-only priesthood per Catholic doctrine.

Caution

Leadership Structure

Male elders/pastors? Accountability?

Apostolic succession; Diocese of Richmond confirmed (employment opportunities reference).

Strong

Preaching Style

Expository or topical/therapeutic?

Lectionary-based Catholic homilies.

Caution

Mission Clarity

Great Commission central?

Historic oceanfront parish; multiple daily and weekend Masses.

Caution

Cultural Alignment

DEI/CRT language? Social justice crowding out gospel?

Diocese of Richmond oversight; oceanfront location (tourists).

Caution

Accountability Structure

Denominational home, elder plurality, or external network — is the pastor answerable to anyone?

Real oversight — Diocese of Richmond confirmed.

Strong

Assessment

Star of the Sea is Virginia Beach's original Catholic parish at the oceanfront — 'Stella Maris' devotion linking maritime heritage with Marian piety. Pastored by Fr. Esteban De Leon, Diocese of Richmond. Catholic red-flag on soteriology vs. sola fide remains, but historic significance and Trinitarian orthodoxy preserved.

#roman-catholic#sola-fide-rejected#diocese-of-richmond#virginia-beach#oceanfront#historic-parish

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MOOP Engagement Tracker

How this church was personally verified by the MOOP directory team:

✓ Researched church website

Last reviewed: 2026-05-16 — Annual review recommended

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