On November 13, 2025, Pope Leo XIV established the Apostolate of the Sea, defining the Church’s global pastoral ministry to seafarers and maritime communities. Operating under the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, it establishes governance structures and responsibilities for coordination, formation, pastoral care, and financial administration worldwide. For more, click here.
Through this statute, the Holy See reaffirms the Church’s commitment to accompany those whose work is connected to the sea—merchant mariners, fishermen, port workers, and their families—many of whom face long periods of isolation and limited access to parish life. The Apostolate of the Sea seeks to ensure that these communities remain connected to the sacramental and pastoral life of the Church wherever their work takes them.
The statute outlines an international structure of assemblies, councils, and leadership roles responsible for guiding and coordinating the mission of the Apostolate. These bodies will support cooperation among dioceses, maritime chaplaincies, and Catholic organizations serving seafarers in ports around the world.
A key dimension of the Apostolate’s mission is providing spiritual care and human support through port chaplaincies, pastoral visits, sacramental ministry, and outreach to those experiencing hardship or loneliness. By strengthening this global network, Pope Leo XIV underscores the Church’s enduring concern for maritime workers and its mission to bring the Gospel and compassionate care to those who live and labor on the seas.
For more, click here.
Devotional for vocational discernment, For Fishing People invites readers to “cast into the deep,” reflecting on biblical fishing images, prayer, and mission. Rooted in the Missionaries of the Holy Apostles’ charism, it encourages action today.
Guadalupe with Lepanto is a devotional-historical reflection linking Our Lady of Guadalupe to the 1571 Battle of Lepanto, exploring Marian imagery, naval history, and rosary-centered faith across continents traditions.
SEE the SEA? invites readers into a journey of maritime spirituality through the eyes of Vincent A. Salamoni, a retired Navy chaplain and Missionary of the Holy Apostles. Blending nautical imagery, Scripture, and personal reflection, the book navigates themes of hope, gratitude, and divine guidance—offering a spiritual anchor for those sailing the seas of life’s challenges and mysteries.
The Conquering Heart is a spiritual collection by Vincent A. Salamoni blending theology, poetry, naval imagery, and reflections on Christ’s Mystical Body. It inspires virtue, grace, and divine participation in the modern world through Eucharistic devotion and vocational calling.
ST JAW explores the relationship between artificial and human intelligence through theological reflection, prayer, and poetry, presenting a symbolic figure representing the Heart of Christ’s Mystical Body.
Inspired by Padre Pio’s timeless counsel, this brief reflection explores prayer, hope, and trust in God as pathways to peace, offering spiritual insight, scriptural grounding, and pastoral encouragement for daily life.
Find in this work all of the above combined!
“Fr. Salamoni’s unique reflections on Faith and Life in a nautical context have always spoken to me and others who are involved in maritime work and the ministry to the People of the Sea. May this collection be an inspiration to all mariners, and all who live, recreate or work upon the vast waters.” – Doreen M Badeaux, Secretary General Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America
“I have served with Fr Salamoni for many years as a fellow Active Duty Navy Chaplain. I have been the beneficiary of his writings which were always joyful, thought provoking, and a delight to read. I heartily and happily give my endorsement to this latest collection. Enjoy!” – Bishop Joseph L Coffey, Vicar for Veterans Affairs, Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA
On the occasion of the 9/11 Boatlift 20th Anniversary Tribute: “Thank you Chaplain: We appreciate you thinking of us as we prepare to honor the heroes, victims and survivors. Your maritime-related prayers continue to uplift many of our members.” – Jessica LM Hitchen, Executive Director, New York Council Navy League
“May The Mercy Ocean be a source of consolation for all who ponder on its gems of wisdom.” — Very Rev. Peter S. Kucer, MSA, STD; President-Rector of Holy Apostles College & Seminary.
“To those who meditate, the Spirit’s gift of Knowledge and Understanding is abundant, and the Heart of Jesus is open for us to see if we seek Him in such a path. Father Vincent’s short work of collected meditations and memorable quotes from various sources is a simple and genuine fruit of his own labor of meditation. Enveloped in beautiful images, and even more beautiful thoughts, The Mercy Ocean is a piece meant to help those along their own path of meditation. Read slowly, read carefully, and read seeking the face of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.” — Fra. Angelo, Knights of the Holy Eucharist
“Antoine de Saint Exupéry (1900-1944), a French writer and aviator, once wrote: ‘If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.’ Fr. Vincent Salamoni’s The Mercy Ocean accomplishes this. More than a sailor’s retreat, this book is a sailor’s delight in the way it inspires the contemplative to cast out into the deep of God’s mercy and grace.” — Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, author of The Narrative Spirituality of Dante’s Divine Comedy: a hundred-day guided journal
Fr. Vincent A. Salamoni, M.S.A. (Vincent Gaspar Anthony Rizzuti Salamoni), is a member of the Society of the Missionaries of the Holy Apostles (M.S.A.). Their charism is to promote, form and accompany vocations to the priesthood and other ministries.
He ministered from on board from a dugout canoe in the Peruvian Amazon to on board the USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65) nuclear air carrier, which is not the starship!
He is retired from in the Chaplain Corps of the United States Navy.
Now, he is a Provincial Emeritus of the MSA-USA and is being through, with, and in, the Mercy Ocean.
CHILDHOOD:
My four grandparents born in Sicily. They went to New York City, in approximately their twenties. They lived in the USA about 50 years and never spoke English. My father was 6 years old when he arrived in NYC. My mother was born in the USA; some of her siblings were born in Sicily. My father was an iconic NYC taxi driver for over 40 years. My mother worked as a seamstress in the NYC garment industry, and afterwards was a full-time housewife. I have three older sisters … extended biological family …
EXPERIMENTAL:
The development of my worldview: Received a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Worked 5 years in the insurance industry. Sailed 2 years in the U.S. Navy as a Radarman / Operations Specialist. Became a Vietnam veteran.
PRIESTHOOD:
Ordained in 1984; theological studies: 2 years in USA, 2 years in Rome. Missionaries of the Holy Apostles (M.S.A.) 2 years in Vicariate Apostolic San José del Amazonas (Peru); 1 year Connecticut; 2 years near Lima, 6 years near Caracas. U.S. Navy, Chaplain Corps: 13 active years: including – Okinawa; USS ENTERPRISE, not a starship, rather an aircraft carrier; Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Iceland; Virginia; San Diego, Naval Hospital; Puerto Rico/Virgin Islands et cetera. Emeritus USA-MSA Provincial Animator (Superior) “Pastoral” Pasture
“After a dangerous voyage, at last I am in sight of the port I have been trying to get to for so long. I shall now be able to enjoy my God … and I shall be freed from a heavy load which I just can’t bear.” – Saint Louis of Anjou, on his deathbed
[Cited in THE MERCY OCEAN.]
Parish Book Signing
March 2025
This book explores the profound role humor and metaphor play in communication, spirituality, and human relationships. Through biblical insights, cultural anecdotes, and theological reflections, the book reveals how humor is not only a source of joy but also a divine tool for teaching, healing, and understanding life’s challenges. Fr. Azorji’s engaging narrative invites readers to embrace laughter as a bridge to wisdom, faith, and deeper human connection.
Paperback $9.99 | Kindle $9.99
“The Power of Humor is a brilliant exploration of faith, laughter, and wisdom. Fr. Eugene Azorji masterfully shows how humor deepens our understanding of God, strengthens relationships, and enriches our spiritual journey.” – Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, author of The Narrative Spirituality of Dante’s Divine Comedy
Rev. Eugene Azorji is a Catholic priest of the Diocese of Ahiara in Nigeria currently on a mission in the Diocese of Dallas, Texas. He was the pioneer rector of Seat of Wisdom major seminary Ariam in Umuahia diocese. He is currently the resident spiritual director at Holy Trinity Seminary in Dallas, Texas. He has a doctorate in Dogmatic theology from the Pontifical Urban University in Rome and a master’s in education from St John’s University New York. He was ordained a priest in 1980 and has served as a formator, teacher, and spiritual director for over thirty years. He is the author of Why do Priests and Religious Die Young. The Voices We Hear Daily, Eritis Mihi Testes, and The Power of Humor are the latest of his publications.
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In a world that often equates fulfillment with marriage and family, Going Solo: Encouraging Single Catholics offers a refreshing and faith-centered perspective on the joys, challenges, and spiritual purpose of living as a dedicated single Catholic.
Drawing from her personal journey, Anne Stokes shares heartfelt reflections, scriptural insights, and practical wisdom to uplift those navigating life outside the traditional expectations of marriage.With warmth and honesty, she explores themes of faith, purpose, loneliness, and devotion, providing encouragement for those who have chosen—by circumstance or by calling—to embrace a life of singleness in Christ.
Through a combination of theological discussion and real-life experiences, Stokes challenges the notion that singleness is a lesser path. Instead, she illuminates how this unique vocation can lead to a deeper relationship with God, a richer understanding of self-worth, and a fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
Whether you are single by choice, waiting for God’s plan to unfold, or seeking to understand the single life from a faith perspective, Going Solo serves as an inspiring guide to finding contentment, strength, and spiritual fulfillment in every season of life.
Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99
“Going Solo is a heartfelt and inspiring guide for single Catholics seeking purpose and faith. Anne Stokes beautifully affirms that a dedicated single life is a path of joy, strength, and spiritual fulfillment.” — Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, co-author with Ronda Chervin of Catholic Realism: A Framework for the Refutation of Atheism and the Evangelization of Atheists
Anne Stokes is a retired Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Finance Executive turned free-lance writer. She has written over eighty articles for Catholic365.com and is the author of Will the Real Church Please Stand! and St. Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage: A Synopsis of His Complete Works by Anne Stokes (En Route Books and Media). She holds a BA (history) from California State University, Fullerton, CA, an MBA from the University of Redlands, Redlands, CA and a Master of Arts in Theology (concentration in Church History) from Holy Apostles College and Seminary, Cromwell, CT. Ms. Stokes is an adult convert to Roman Catholicism from Fundamentalist Baptist.
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This book is a ChatGPT-illustrated theological retelling of Nosferatu (1922), portraying Ellen as a Christ-like victim soul. As her husband, Hutter, departs for Orlok’s castle, she offers herself in prayer and fasting. Orlok’s arrival brings plague and terror, and Ellen, through self-sacrifice, lures him until dawn, destroying him with divine light. Her martyrdom redeems the town, emphasizing themes of faith, sacrifice, and triumph over evil.
Paperback: $14.95 | Kindle: $9.99
“Redemptive suffering and the victim soul are pillars of Catholicism in the understanding of the cross. This belief and action in life distinguishes Catholicism from other religions like Buddhism (which focuses more on compassion and relinquishing attachment than suffering), as well as some Christian religions (which focus more on the resurrection than the cross). So, it’s important to get a story such as this in a book by Dr. Mahfood, using the original Nosferatu script, of redemptive suffering in a form that even young people can understand and to which they will be drawn. In this age, young adults and children are presented with overwhelming numbers of stories/movies/video games with horror themes focusing on violence for violence’s sake and retaliation. Instead, in a compelling fashion, this book, using the 1922 script of Nosferatu, integrates a horror story with the victim soul tenet of Catholicism. This book raises interesting issues. Since the story is from 1922, we can understand that it is a female who is the victim soul. But one would wonder today how that could be misunderstood by those experiencing self-harm and harm from others (domestic violence, human trafficking) so rampant with particularly young adult females today. Even male victim souls often are seen as effeminate. Also, the story shows how even faithful men and husbands can be lured into evil for the sake of money and without discernment in Christ. The husband didn’t listen to his wife’s warnings. Dr. Mahfood’s presentation of this story summons others to continue creating stories in the horror genre that have Catholic themes.” – Dr. Angelyn Arden, author of “Empty Nest” and Other Stories, Figures in Orbits of Symphony, Center Camaraderie
Dr. Sebastian Mahfood, OP, is a distinguished scholar, educator, and member of the Dominican Order of Preachers. With an extensive academic background, he has earned multiple advanced degrees in fields such as English, philosophy, and theology. He is particularly known for his contributions to Catholic education and his leadership in promoting intellectual and spiritual growth.
Dr. Mahfood was the Vice President at Holy Apostles College and Seminary from 2013-2021, where he played a pivotal role in expanding online educational programs and fostering a global community of learners. As an advocate for accessible education, he has worked to integrate traditional Catholic teachings with innovative digital learning platforms.
In addition to his administrative work, Dr. Mahfood is an accomplished author, publishing works on theology, philosophy, technology, and literature. His writing reflects his passion for language and cultural history, aiming to inspire intellectual curiosity and appreciation for the richness of the English language.
A dynamic speaker and teacher, Dr. Mahfood is deeply committed to his vocation, blending academic excellence with his spiritual calling to serve as a Dominican. His work continues to inspire and educate people worldwide.
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The Host of Gethsemane is a deeply researched field guide to the profound significance of the Garden of Gethsemane. But it is more. It is a labor not only of study, but of love—a defense of Jesus of Gethsemane in every sense of the word. There have been very few books written which are dedicated entirely to the vitally important subject of Gethsemane… until now. The Host of Gethsemane remedies this abandonment of Our Lord’s Agony. This is a journey you will be grateful to be part of, as your very readership will contribute to advancing the understanding of Gethsemane as the Sanctuary that it is, in every sense of the word.
Paperback: $19.95 | Kindle: $9.99
Annabelle Moseley is an award-winning American poet, author of nine books, including Sacred Braille: The Rosary as Masterpiece through Art, Poetry, and Reflections, Our House of the Sacred Heart, and Awake with Christ: Living the Catholic Holy Hour in Your Home, Professor of Theology and host of the Catholic radio shows and podcasts on Sacramental Living: “Then Sings My Soul,” and “Destination: Sainthood — Journey to the Great Cloud of Witnesses,” on WCAT Radio. Moseley’s work as a poet is featured as one of five artists profiled in the 2019 Documentary Film, Masterpieces, about the vocational call of the arts. This film is available to view through Amazon Prime and Formed On Demand (formed.org).
Moseley has won the titles of Walt Whitman Birthplace Writer in-Residence (2009-2010) and 2014 Long Island Poet of the Year. She teaches at St. Joseph’s College in New York and at St. Joseph’s Seminary (Dunwoodie, NY) where she specializes in the field of Theological Aesthetics with an emphasis on the intersection between theology and literature. Moseley has led various retreats and workshops for the Diocese of Rockville Centre, New York, and is the founder of Desert Bread (desertbread.org), a series of lectures on faith and the arts that concludes with sharing a meal and taking a collection of canned food donations for local food pantries. Moseley is a frequent columnist for the Catholic online magazine, Aleteia.
Born on the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, Annabelle Moseley was baptized at the Church of St. Louis de Montfort (a saint known for his special devotion to the Rosary). Raised on the North Shore of Long Island, Moseley continues to reside there, grateful for the domestic church she has built with her husband and their children.
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