About Stella Maris Catholic Chapel · Ocracoke, North Carolina
Our Lady of the Seas Catholic Parish is a small, warm, vibrant Catholic community located on Hatteras Island, 30 miles off North Carolina's coast along the Outer Banks. All are welcome — whether you're a full-time or part-time resident, an off-island property owner, an annual vacationer, or a traveler passing through. The parish serves both Buxton and Ocracoke, with Masses celebrated at both locations and live-streamed for those unable to attend in person.
- Rector
- Reverend Jayaseelan Selvaraj, MSFS (Fr. Jay)
- Diocese
- Diocese of Raleigh
Why belong here
Join a welcoming, faith-filled community that celebrates Mass daily in Buxton and Sundays at Stella Maris Chapel in Ocracoke. Participate in live-streamed liturgies, receive spiritual direction, and connect with neighbors through ministries like hospitality, outreach, and sacramental services. Whether you’re visiting or living on the island, you’re invited to pray, serve, and celebrate with us.
Mass times at Stella Maris Catholic Chapel
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- Saturdays 4:45 to 5:15 pm
- by appointment
Adoration times
- First Friday 9:00 am with Adoration and Holy Hour
About
We are a small, warm, vibrant Catholic community on Hatteras Island, 30 miles off North Carolina's coast along the Outer Banks. All are welcome — whether you're a full-time or part-time resident, an off-island property owner, an annual vacationer, or a traveler passing through. Join us on our journey of faith, whether for an hour, a week, or a lifetime.
Pastor
Fr. Jayaseelan Selvaraj, MSFS (Fr. Jay) is the current Administrator, appointed October 13, 2025. He previously served as Provincial Superior in India and worked in Rome for Global Missions. Fr. Fred Smuda (retired) served as pastor from 2013 to 2025.
Sacraments & Services
The parish offers the Sacraments of Baptism, Marriage, Vow Renewals, Reconciliation, and Eucharist. Confession is available Saturdays 4:45–5:15 pm or by appointment. Adoration is held on the 1st Friday of every month at 9:00 am.
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Reverend Alfred 'Fred' Smuda, OSFS2013–2025
Retired May 22, 2025. Served as pastor since February 26, 2013, installed August 27, 2013. Previously worked as a teacher in Philadelphia and missionary in Brazil and India.
- Reverend Jayaseelan Selvaraj, MSFSOctober 13, 2025–present
Appointed Administrator by Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama of Raleigh. Belongs to the Congregation of the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales (MSFS). Previously Provincial Superior in Pune, India, and worked in Rome for Global Missions.