Tom Oosterhoudt / Conch Color

Saint Mary Star of the Sea often is filled to capacity for its Masses during the main tourist season in Key West, from Christmas to Easter. Tom Oosterhoudt / Conch Color

Father John Baker said what makes Saint Mary Star of the Sea so special is its people, including Concesa Moshi, Marietha J.Kimaro and Mary Mushi, all visiting Sisters of the Holy Spirit from Tanzania. Cammy Clark

Saint Mary Star of the Sea is the oldest Catholic Church in the Archodiocese of Miami, with the original building opening in 1851 on Duval Street in Key West. Courtesy of Saint Mary Star of the Sea

Saint Mary Star of the Sea's Coat of Arms, which includes a conch shell that is a traditional symbol for Key West.