On December 4, the feast of Saint Barbara—patron saint of the Navy and Firefighters—the Cathedral of Ravenna hosted a well-attended joint celebration presided over by the Archbishop of Ravenna–Cervia, Monsignor Lorenzo Ghizzoni. The Mass brought together the city’s highest civil and military authorities: the Mayor, the Prefect, the Public Prosecutor, provincial commanders of the various State Corps, as well as a large representation of the Port Authority–Coast Guard and the Provincial Fire Brigade Command.

« Courage and Altruism »: The 2025 Awards

During the ceremony, six awards were presented to individuals and organizations distinguished by their dedication and service in maritime and public safety sectors. Among the recipients was Father Vincenzo Tomaiuoli, Scalabrinian Missionary and president of Stella Maris Ravenna.

The plaques were presented by Archbishop Ghizzoni, Prefect Raffaele Ricciardi, and the Mayor of Ravenna, Alessandro Barattoni. The event concluded with expressions of gratitude from the Provincial Fire Brigade Commander, Antonio Petitto, and Captain Maurizio Tattoli, Maritime Director of Emilia-Romagna and Commander of the Port Authority, who thanked all those who work daily with professionalism and sacrifice to safeguard the community.

Recognition for Father Tomaiuoli and Stella Maris

Father Vincenzo Tomaiuoli, director of the Archdiocesan Office for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and the Apostleship of the Sea, and president of Stella Maris Ravenna, received the first award of the ceremony. The motivation highlighted his “tireless commitment to the social and spiritual assistance of seafarers” and his longstanding dedication to welcoming and supporting seafarers, sailors, and their families—a service described as a “shining example of solidarity and humanity.”

Father Tomaiuoli’s Words

Upon receiving the award from the Archbishop, Father Tomaiuoli expressed gratitude:

“I consider it a recognition for the Archdiocese, for the chaplains and presidents of Stella Maris in Ravenna, as well as for the many volunteers who, with discreet and tireless dedication, have contributed to writing the history of this diocesan work in the service of seafarers,” said Father Tomaiuoli after receiving the plaque from the Archbishop.

His words recalled the long tradition of hospitality, human support, and spiritual care offered to the vast community of seafarers who pass through the Port of Ravenna each year.

A Mission That Continues

This recognition honors not only Father Tomaiuoli but the entire mission of Stella Maris Ravenna, which has supported seafarers from around the world for decades. In an environment often marked by isolation, distance from family, and challenging working conditions, Stella Maris—through its chaplains and volunteers—remains a vital presence offering humanity, listening, and solidarity.