Volunteers have been tirelessly working for months in preparation for the grand delivery of Christmas cheer to the Port of Wilmington, Delaware. The culmination of their efforts—knitting hats, gathering gifts, wrapping packages, and organizing deliveries—has finally arrived, as the community comes together to spread joy to seafarers visiting this eastern U.S. port.

Church and civic groups have been calling for pick-ups, adding to the bustling activity at the Seamen’s Center of Wilmington. Just last Tuesday, Executive Director Kathryn Bradley oversaw the delivery of more than 100 gift boxes to the center, ready for the final journey to ships in port. This year marks Bradley’s first Christmas at Sea event, and she is deeply inspired by the dedication of her team.

“We are a volunteer-driven group,” said Bradley. “Our port is very, very supportive, as is our board. It is a fabulous infrastructure.”

Volunteers embedded in the Wilmington community work tirelessly to make this global Christmas outreach possible. The gifts—ranging from socks and gloves to personal care items and playing cards—pile up as wrapping parties take place to prepare for delivery. Stacks of presents await their journey, filling the center with a sense of festive chaos.

“It looks like a storm went through. There are presents everywhere,” said Shivana Berardesco, the center’s office manager. “We have great community support.”

Last year, 1,201 seafarers received Christmas gift boxes in Wilmington. From oiler to captain, the joy on their faces was evident as many received the only gift they would get that season. This year, the goal is to distribute 1,000 Christmas boxes. Currently, 680 have been personally delivered, with outreach extending to both the Delaware City port, known for its quick turnaround times, and Ocean Port.

“This is meaningful to me,” said Berardesco, who has been involved in the program since she joined the center in 2022. “The feeling that you get when giving to the seafarers who are away from their families at Christmas—you know you are doing something right.”

The Christmas outreach is a monumental effort to bring comfort and joy to the often-overlooked community of seafarers. Few people know these individuals personally, but the collective support from churches, civic organizations, and individuals makes all the difference.

“It’s kind of mind-blowing to know all the people who get involved. Everybody does something every day for the seafarers,” said Bradley. Recently, Grace Episcopal Church in Wilmington donated over 100 boxes, continuing a tradition of involvement that spans more than a decade. “It is a form of outreach that means a lot to me because it is something we can all contribute to,” said Tom Marshall, a vestry member. “The parish really wraps their arms around this. We even have a churchwide event where the entire parish gathers to wrap the gifts.”

The Church of Four Chaplains in Philadelphia also played a significant role, partnering with cadets from the Maritime Academy Charter School to contribute a tremendous number of boxes. For those connected to the maritime industry, the importance of supporting seafarers during the holidays resonates deeply.

“It’s an overwhelming thing, from start to finish, to see the number of people giving the utmost of what they have,” Bradley reflected. “People are so thoughtful and generous with their time for the seafarers. When they understand what seafarers do for us in the supply chain, the vastness of this collective effort becomes especially poignant at Christmas.”

The Seamen’s Center of Wilmington, established in 1990, was created through a partnership between maritime and church communities and the Port of Wilmington Maritime Society. Its mission is to serve all seafarers on the Delaware River, providing personal, practical, and spiritual support to this often-lonely and forgotten group. The deepwater port, located just 65 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, is the leading importer of fresh fruits and juice concentrate in North America, with vessel turnaround times often less than 24 hours.

For Bradley, one of the biggest challenges is finding ways to properly thank everyone involved in this monumental effort. “It’s difficult to be away from home at Christmas,” she said of the seafarers. “I appreciate the difference our dedicated community makes in their lives.”

Photo: Facebook Seamen’s Center of Wilmington, DE

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As Amazon trucks and postal services scramble to deliver holiday packages on time, chaplains and volunteers in the Canadian port of Vancouver board the free water taxi to deliver Christmas gifts to seafarers at anchorage in their port.

The annual trip is a prime measure of how much reaching seafarers at Christmas means to this Vancouver outreach. Missions in other port cities join efforts to provide each seafarer on a ship in their respective port a Christmas gift during the holiday. The Vancouver Mission to Seafarers takes it a step further.

The Port of Vancouver is the largest port in Canada and the fourth largest in North America by tons of cargo. It offers 30 deep-sea and domestic marine terminals. In addition to those at these terminals, during Christmas an estimated 12 to 21 ships wait at anchorage to discharge cargo according to the Rev. Peter Smyth, CEO of the Mission to Seafarers. Although access is more challenging, they are included.

Just prior to Christmas Day, the mission staff maps out the ships at anchorage and delivers a personally prepared Christmas gift to each seafarer.

“There about eight of us onboard the water taxi,” wrote Smyth, who serves as Senior Port Chaplain. “We radio the ship as we are approaching and they lower the gangway. We hand gifts over to the seafarer at the bottom of the gangway. Due to time, we do not board every vessel.

“We go on some ships and take photos and visit. Sometimes a chaplain will stay onboard to be picked up later. I recall going on one ship to deliver gifts. It was a mixed crew and they all sang to us in the messroom.”

Participation in the deliveries provides a powerful exchange and clear expression of meeting real needs of seafarers. The process of gift giving at anchorage takes about five hours. Meanwhile, other volunteers also deliver gifts to the ships docked in the port.

Last Christmas, 71 ships in Vancouver including Roberts Bank and Delta Port, received gift bags. That translates to approximately 1500 seafarers docked and at anchorage who were personally remembered while far from home.

“While not all seafarers are Christian, it shows all seafarers that we are here and we care. It says they matter,” wrote Symth. “It is a blessing to see them smile especially when they are at work and a long way from loved ones.”

The Christmas effort takes keen coordination and commitment. About forty volunteers engage in the process and contribute to its success. Beginning as early as the Fall appeal, financial donations and gifts begin to arrive at the mission. By mid-December those from churches and the marine community gather to fill the gift bags with a variety of personal and practical items.

Thanks to the local Anglican Diocese, additional gifts will be delivered. Still others support through online contributions.

Sharon Cooper and her husband attend St. John the Apostle Anglican Church in Port Moody. As long-term partners of the Christmas outreach, they deliver gift bag items prepared by the Anglican Church women’s group and other donations to the mission.

“My husband and I have been taking a carload of items to the Mission House for many years,” said Cooper. “We bring knitted toques, hot socks, books, puzzles, magazines and home baking. It was particularly important to help out during COVID when so many seafarers were stuck on their ships.

“We always enjoy our time at the mission especially when we can connect with the seafarers there.”

The bond with seafarers is unique. The need for meaningful personal contact is critical for them.

Another Christmas volunteer, 72-year-old Pauline Mabias has donated her time since 2016. Last year she sewed 200 ditty bags to be filled and given away.

“I hope to make more ditty bags now that I am retired,” she said.

Mabias became a certified Ship Welfare Visitor in 2016. She was nominated by Bishop John Stephens to the Order of the Diocese of New Westminster 2024 for the seafarer ministry.

“I consider them my family and I sympathize with their struggles at sea. I love communicating with them and listening to their stories, which is a wonderful, heartwarming experience with a diverse group of seafarers.

“These experiences are cathartic for me, said the Filipino/American volunteer. “Seeing them relax and smile after each visit brings great joy to my heart and I love doing it.”

Seafaring is a dangerous occupation and a lonely life. The toll of separation from home and family strains this quite invisible workforce. Quick turnaround is critical to the movement of goods globally. Consequently, ships depart and seafarers are often forgotten. However, for those who are back at sea following Christmas in Vancouver, the impact of someone personally caring for them goes with them and this makes a difference.

Photo: Mission to Seafarers Port of Vancouver

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In port cities and landlocked towns, seemingly random people are synchronized in their concern for seafarers, especially at Christmas.

Reverend Susan Tjornehoj grew up in Colorado. As a young Lutheran pastor, her first call was to remote villages north of Nome, Alaska—a place where daily life was centered on making ends meet. Even so, God used her experience to gain a heart for seafarers through the connections she nurtured among the greater Lutheran community.

While in the Northwest, she met the Reverend Dr. Roald Kverndal, a pioneering advocate for seafarers. As a former seafarer, historian, and author of Seafarer’s Mission: Their Origin and Early Growth, Kverndal passionately worked to engage the church in the ongoing care of those working at sea. Tjornehoj connected to the idea.

“I have always been active in synod staffs,” she said. “In Alaska, where mobilizing people for service was not possible, it has always been important to me to support the larger purpose of the church with benevolence funds.”

Her next call led to Lake of the Woods in northern Minnesota, where her awareness of seafarers increased through America’s farthest-inland freshwater seaport, the Port of Duluth-Superior. There, massive cargo ships included seafarers with names and faces who would give a bittersweet wave as they slowly passed under Duluth’s iconic lift bridge out to sea. Seafarers were no longer a category of ministry but individual people.

Tjornehoj’s later call to Baltimore, Maryland, further embedded this once-obscure ministry in her heart through Seafarers’ International House in the Baltimore port. As the current president of the SIH executive board, her commitment to the global outreach directs and inspires others working within the church and local communities.

Thanks to donors, churches, and individuals, SIH operates in ports in the greater New York City area through the dedication of many, particularly at Christmas.

“Seafarers International House is the Lutheran response to the urgent needs of vulnerable seafarers and immigrants,” said Pastor and Executive Director Rev. Marsh Drege. “They are often marginalized people. Seafarers are always looking for home.”

The Reverend Craig A. Miller, Bishop of the Upper Susquehanna Synod of the ELCA, recalls his personal history with SIH, which began in 1996. It retains a prominent place for him.

“I have seen what the seafarer’s ministry has been like over the years,” said Miller. “It is something I value.”

As bishop, Miller now oversees 113 congregations, of which at least half participate in the Christmas at Sea program for the ports served by this ministry.

“We are in a landlocked location about 175 miles from a port,” said Administrative Assistant Brenda Krouse, who has been involved since 2011 and works alongside Miller.

According to Miller, she has spent “countless hours” supporting the Christmas at Sea program.

“The people love it,” said Krouse.

“One year, we had almost 1,000 bags we filled for SIH.”

Throughout the year, parishioners gather contents for the gift bags. By the November deadline, volunteers from SIH arrive with two 15-passenger vans. The church loads them “to the gills” for Christmas giving in the ports of New York and Baltimore, according to Miller.

“It seems like the folks in this synod like to provide for people in need,” he said. “They make quilts, healthcare kits, and pack trucks for hurricane relief.”

Even with declining attendance in mainline denominations across the country, leaving fewer hands for Christmas at Sea, Miller says his synod is sustaining their high level of giving.

“The greatest challenge is having the people to do that work; there isn’t an easy way to make that up,” he said. “Yet, I see an upward trend in giving to seafarers.”

Tjornehoj recalls church members in Bemidji, Minnesota, found connecting with seafarers a challenge. They traditionally made quilts for missions in Africa. When they bridged the gap between the container they filled with quilts—traveling by rail and then by ship—they could personalize the work of their hands to the lives of seafarers.

“They are smitten,” she said.

“Members are always really excited to find out the church is there.”

Miller’s broader perspective confirms this. “We are gaining interest even when losing,” he said. “I sense there is value to this. The congregations have a purpose.”

SIH was founded in 1873 by Augustana Lutheran Church, initially as a response to Swedish seafarers in the Port of New York. Shortly thereafter, it extended its care to Swedish immigrants. In 1907, the German Seamen’s Mission in New York merged with SIH, which became an affiliated mission of the ELCA in 1987.

In 2023, SIH celebrated 15 decades of service to two million seafarers and immigrants.

The current nonprofit is registered in the state of New York and serves seafarers in ports including Albany, New York; Baltimore, Maryland; New Haven, Connecticut; and the Port of New York and New Jersey.

With landlocked volunteers and those making personal connections on the docks, the cooperative outreach served almost 40,000 seafarers and immigrants during 2019. This Christmas looks to be significant as it continues to welcome the strangers among us and care for those at sea.

Photo: Facebook Seafarers’ International House

The post Seafarers’ International House: Supporting Seafarers Through Faith and Community appeared first on NAMMA.

The Port of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is noted as one of the most impressive natural harbors in the world. Economically, its development provides depth of support to its local markets and to the entire province. The Canadian port welcomes the world’s largest shipping lines, connecting it to more than 150 countries. It offers the deepest berth on the East Coast of North America, according to its website.

It is a significant port for cruise lines. The development of Piers 20 to 23 appeals as a new waterfront destination to cruisers and visitors, as the 2024 cruise season continues to be one of the busiest yet. Mission to Seafarers outreach is a significant facet of this port—a not-for-profit outreach where volunteers and staff maintain best practices as they meet the increasing number of seafarers they serve.

Recently, the port received the 2015 Port of the Year award from the International Seafarers’ Welfare and Assistance Network. A port is often measured from a business perspective by the volume of cargo it exchanges or the number of vessels it welcomes. In contrast, the ISWAN award distinguishes the Halifax port for exhibiting a notable concern for the welfare of those who man the ships, who give up family and home to serve the global economy.

Welfare is at the heart of Mission to Seafarers in the Port of Halifax. As one of more than 200 such missions in over 50 countries, their focus is on concern for and care of those making their living at sea. Through its staff and volunteers, the mission provides vital support, offering practical and emotional assistance as well as spiritual guidance. For them, seafarers’ welfare is paramount every day of each month, year after year. That is why Christmas matters to them.

Ship Welfare Volunteer John Attersley served as a seafarer and identifies with the life away from home.

“Many will be at sea for Christmas,” said Attersley. “It can be a lot of lonely nights.”

The Halifax mission engages more than 30 dedicated volunteers, with many currently preparing for the Christmas season. As December approaches, more willing hearts—from medical personnel to delivery drivers—will connect around the common goal of caring for seafarers. The efficient subdivision of tasks ensures each seafarer receives a gift. Some volunteers fill boxes, others wrap gifts or deliver them to eager crews. Ministry partners who pull alongside vessels during the holiday experience firsthand the joyful reception as Christmas gifts are lugged up gangways to the delight of those onboard.

“It’s satisfying to know they will have a gift to open,” said Attersley. “Christmas can be a bit of a low point. The gift means someone cares about them. It perks them up.”

During 2023, the Halifax mission gave more than 1,200 shoeboxes containing mittens, hand-knit scarves, socks, hygiene items, candy, playing cards, and more to the international seafarers calling at Halifax.

“We have hundreds of women who knit scarves for our Christmas shoeboxes,” said Mission Manager Helen Glenn.

Last season, volunteer Sandy Collins personally knit over 3,400 scarves for seafarers she would never meet.

Attersley recalls his own meaningful MtS visits as a seafarer in ports of Dubai and Rotterdam. Now in his eighth year with MtS, he boards ships to greet others at Christmas and throughout the year. The Halifax mission has recorded 433 ship visits so far this year, 1,400 transports, and 1,750 visits to the center.

“Being able to see smiles on faces when they come in to communicate with their families (electronically) is a nice thing to see,” he said.

In light of his dedication, Attersley was recently granted the Peter G. Bernard Volunteer Award by the International Sailors’ Society Canada. This recognition is given for generously contributing one’s time to support the welfare of seafarers.

The top-notch leadership, dedicated staff, committed sponsors, and devoted volunteer crew continue to maintain a significant outreach in their port, especially as they prepare for another season of Christmas giving.

Photo: Facebook The Mission to Seafarers, Halifax, Canada

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Seafarers are embedded in the world of global trade.

This multicultural and religiously-blended population who live and work side-by-side at sea, seldom see home and rarely experience the care and comfort many of us take for granted. The two million workers engaged in the world’s distribution of goods are vitally connected to global economics, but by most measures personally unconnected. Therefore, caring for seafarers is critical.  

“Maritime chaplaincy fills an important gap,” said The Reverend Judith Alltree, Regional Director of The Mission to Seafarers in Canada.

Whether a deacon or lay person, the prerequisite is the heart. Caring for seafarers is uniquely different than other ministries. Due to the rarity of meaningful personal contact for those working at sea, maritime ministry workers need a willingness to serve others, regardless of the situation. They are committed to the variables. Whether providing transportation, finding an immediate healthcare option, helping wiring money to a family, or providing personal counsel, port chaplains must prepare to care.

“Caring for seafarers is not the traditional ministry path. This is where the people who don’t fit traditional ministry fit. They are very, very special people,” said Alltree.

North American ministry centers sprinkled along the coasts and the borders of the Great Lakes operate uniquely. Each is geared to reach the seafarers they meet while larger entities provide resources.

The North American Maritime Ministry Association provides a framework for those caring for mariners.  The association of about 100 members and 55 affiliated agencies throughout North America and the Caribbean equips those who serve this blend of humanity as consultant and coordinator of services. It leads and comes along side as a valuable asset for a very specific mission.

Deacon Paul Rosenblum agrees. He serves seafarers in the South Carolina port of Charleston as a Stella Maris port minister. Stella Maris, an international agency of the Catholic Church provides pastoral care to seafarers, other maritime workers and their families. Rosenblum began serving seafarers in 2004.

He further recommends the Houston Maritime Ministry Training Program for those preparing to serve.

The program has offered training since 1972. At the Houston International Seafarers’ Center, the specialized education incorporates the knowledge and experience of experts in the field, creating an initial foundation for those new to port chaplaincy.

Chaplains also find ongoing resources and valuable networking using the reach of Stella Maris, Port Ministries International, the Seamen’s Church Institute – Center for Mariners Advocacy, Seafarers’ International House, The Mission to Seafarers or the global International Christian Maritime Association. Each enrich a mission’s work through their specific areas of support for seafarers.

Concerns in operating a mission abound. Enlisting committed volunteers following COVID-19, securing and sustaining funding and operating a center all need attention. However, when seafarers, men and women, step into the day, they become the focus.

Rev. Mark Wodka, Director of the Canaveral Port Ministry in Port Canaveral, FL says meeting the needs of seafarers is the top priority of this Christian outreach.

“Our mission statement is very clear and that is our guideline. We serve in an attitude of love toward one another and toward the seafarers. Jesus said this is the mark of his followers. If we find ourselves doing things outside of that we will have mission drift,” said Wodka.

Building a strong board is important. The regular review of priorities maintains the focus of ministry workers. Wodka recommends a monthly report designed to reflect your goals and mission statement is a good tool for oversight.

“Our board is embedded in the work and the keeper of the mission.  They have a passion for seeing God work,” he said. “They are generous with their time and provide amazing oversight.” 

Challenges are part of development and growth. Preparing for these realities enhances the practices and wellbeing of ministries.

“When you are in a good place, and things begin to shift, it’s kind of scary,” said Wodka. “You need to check your foundation. You can risk your whole organization becoming unstable if you allow your priorities to get off.”

Jennifer Stewart, Executive Director of Seafarers House, Fort Lauderdale, FL provides leadership to one of the busiest seafarer centers in North America. The cruise ship industry alone brings 150,000 seafarers through Port Everglades annually.

“Communication is very important within our board, our staff and our chaplains,” said Stewart. We are able to have difficult conversations when needed.”

Stewart has been working with seafarers since 2016. She spearheaded the Seafarers’ House first capital campaign of $3.5 million to secure funding for a new facility.

“It is easy to get off track if you don’t stay connected,” she said. “Stay connected to your team, your stakeholders, port community, shipping companies and others in ministry. Each provides insight. We have had times when we were chasing squirrels.”

The Seafarers’ House is guided by their mission: refuge, resources, renewal and respect through multicultural services.  Referring back to the established mission statement enables clarity regarding what matters most.

“Seafarers needs are changing internationally,” said Stewart. “Staying current on what seafarers are facing is key.”

“We have short and long-term goals but seafarers also have immediate needs. All needs are different, like being detained for months while the ship is in for maintenance. Providing the care and support they need is priority. When they can’t come to us, we go to them.”

Priorities set the stage. Judith Alltree recalls one ship visit that called for a flexible advocate.

“Daily priorities can change immediately when you have to convince a captain that a crew member on his ship needs medical attention,” she said.

 Discerning seafarer’s needs requires active listening. What you are not hearing in conversation with seafarers is very often more important than what you hear. Fear to speak up is a reality for struggling workers. Mental health issues are increasing. Knowing the type of challenges commonly faced is helpful. 

Across the globe, seafarers learn to trust those in mission centers. They anticipate a warm welcome and a helping hand, whatever their need.

“One thing that I have learned in preparing for this ministry is to expect the unexpected,” said Rosenblum. “Be ready for things to be different. I am a scientist by training, I like things planned.“

“Port ministry is not like that. This is a very important thing to understand. We are not in charge.”

Seafarers’ lives are always in flux, and when in port, schedules and other variables like U.S. Customs or Border Protection have to be considered, said Rosenblum.

“We all recognize that we are here to do the best we can for the seafarers. That is our priority for two reasons: We depend on them and we have to thank them. Jesus gave us two great commandments. Love God and love our neighbor. Those things should be at the forefront.”

The post First Things First: Priorities in Maritime Ministry appeared first on NAMMA.

Throughout the world, in large centers or just an office space, people are caring for the needs of seafarers. Many see the global workforce personally. Others communicate only by the internet. Some visible and others not as much.

Mona Horner lives in Canada. She walks her dog at 4:30 each morning and is ready to tee off by 7:30 a.m. Her upbeat tone and Irish accent tell a meaningful story of her volunteer work, she describes as a gift.

“I was taught as a child that if you can help someone, then help them,” said Horner.

A woman in the background of a Montreal mission.

For “hours upon hours” Horner sits at her sewing machine making Christmas gifts for seafarers.

Seafarers: the global workforce that supplies 90 percent of the goods we use daily.

The opportunity began when she was asked if she could sew. Her response led to a new Serger sewing machine where she makes a difference in the lives of seafarers from around the world without leaving her home.

In the Port of Montreal, The Ministry to Seafarers, a Christian outreach that visits ships and cares for an unseen people group. Annually with its local partners, it gives Christmas gift bags to every seafarer in their port during the holiday season. Last year, 1,500 bags filled with essentials and treats were given away. One thousand were stitched by Horner.

“Sometimes I set up my sewing machine at the kitchen table, listen to an audio tape and sew all night. It’s nice to know you are doing something meaningful,” she said.

Administrator and Volunteer Coordinator for the ministry, Patricia Sarazen, has seen the dedication and generosity the relatively new volunteer offers.

“She is unbelievable,” said Sarazen. “Her bags are all beautiful and exceptionally made.”

Horner has a talent to sew and a gift for resourcefulness. When asked to supply gift bags for the annual Day of the Seafarer, she found her fabric a bit bland. So she hand-stenciled the 100 bags with the Canadian maple leaf.  

“It’s incredible how the word spreads,” said Sarazen. “It’s like a well-functioning eco-system.”

“I received five large bags of fabric at my door step this week,” said Horner.

“Heather’s father was a seafarer. She donated brand new material at first, but then told her quilting group. Piles of fabric were dropped off. It’s a trickle effect.”

The flow of generosity continues as Chinese students and retired businessmen share in the global Christmas outreach.

“It’s been nuts,” she said. “It is fantastic to see everyone involved.”

Last November, Horner visited a ship and got a glimpse of the people and place where her generosity ends. Or continues.

“In one sense, they are really helping me,” she said.

The welfare of seafarers remains a concern for Stella Evans since she and her husband began visiting seafarers in the Port of Gary, Indiana 40 years ago.

 “We used to go to the port to entertain those on the ships,” she said.

Today, the 81-year-old volunteer provides outreach from her home where she sustains her personal connection by crocheting 500 watch caps annually.

“I have a ball of yarn with me all the time and I can take the time.” she said. “I love doing that at night when I watch T.V.”

Evans has about completed 450 hats for this upcoming Christmas season.

“I can’t always remember, but when I see them, all bagged up, I am amazed,” she said.

The dedication of volunteers in the background is always appreciated by seafarers. Chaplain Marshal Bundren serves the Indiana port among others. He sent Evans a photo of 20 seafarers wearing her watch caps. A couple of them sent $10 for yarn with a message to “keep making those hats.”

There are others who God has impressed to serve seafarers throughout the world. Many without fanfare.

Ute Brinkmann, a German master of violin making has 20 years of experience as a luthier. She served an apprenticeship with the late Gunther Hellwig and gained her journeyman’s experience with Hellwig’s successor. In 1987, she received her master diploma in violin making from the German Guild. Her project received international attention for its workmanship and beauty.

Brinkmann’s heart is also tuned to serving seafarers. After learning about port ministry at Trinity Lutheran Church in New Haven, Conn. she put her hands to another service of excellence: baking cookies.

“The secret of serving seafarers spilled over in my life,” she said.

Brinkman has been baking dozens of cookies for seafarers since 2009. She loves her personal role in the massive world of seafaring.

“It’s not the cookie itself,” said the volunteer, “It’s the fact that seafarers know someone is thinking about them.”

She feels that the more cookies that are baked, the more seafarers are positively impacted. She has no plans to slow down, but rather to inspire others. And she does.

The collection of her recipes will be available in book form at the 2024 North American Maritime Ministry Association’s annual conference in Newark, New Jersey.

Baking cookies for seafarers away from their families has a big impact on me,” said

“Sometime we need to ask what can I do? What am I here for? Serving seafarers gives me purpose,” said Brinkman.

Photo: Seafarers aboard the M/V Solina wear hats knitted by volunteer Stella Evans (photo provided by Chaplain Marshal Bundren)

The post Small Acts of Kindness: The Unseen Volunteers Supporting Seafarers’ Welfare appeared first on NAMMA.

by Susan Huppert, NAMMA

Port Ministries International and Texas Port Ministry are celebrating 40 and 50 years of service respectively. Each notes successful groundwork and continued flexibility as keys to their longevity.

Outreach to seafarers happens in almost unlimited ways. Chaplains, drivers and ship visitors often feel called to their specific work. Such was a young Baptist pastor when the foundational work among seafarers was laid in his neighborhood.   

“It was at the Third Street Baptist Church,” said Rev. John Vandercook, a noted forerunner in the outreach to seafarers during the early 1960s.

He wrote, how from the front door of the small church he pastored, he saw ships at the nearby docks of the Julia St. wharf near the French Quarter. Concern for those onboard never passed. As Vandercook began meeting seafarers, one after another described their spiritual need. Compelled, he began providing the care they longed for in his home. The young pastor witnessed the need and visualized an evangelical ministry specific to seafarers. He shared his concern with his denominational leaders. The growing awareness led to the incorporation of a non-profit corporation to meet the needs of international seafarers.

Footprints of prior spiritual care on the New Orleans waterfront began as early as 1823 when a few committed individuals held a worship service and about 200 seafarers attended.  The foundation of the New Orleans Bethel Union Society was established in April of that year with the Bethel flag hoisted over a dedicated schooner to signify where and when regular services were held. Methods are always changing, yet the significance of the seafarer remains at the core of outreach.

In 1965, Vandercook helped lay the groundwork of Southern Baptist Seafarers Ministers Fellowship. In 1983, the work was renamed and incorporated as Port Ministries International. Just beyond its 40 years, the organization continues its evangelical outreach and extends care to include the boarder port communities where its members serve. Some ports have teams of workers while others are sole operators. All benefit from the comradery found in PMI.

Mark Wodka, Director of Canaveral Port Ministry, Fla. is a 13-year PMI member and a board member. He attributes the longevity of PMI to its spiritual aspect.

“The strength of PMI is the fellowship, spiritual enrichment and encouragement found there,” said Wodka.

Aside of their shared mission to seafarers PMI stresses the care of those who serve.

“PMI offers a phenomenal opportunity to network and share resources as we work to include more international members for the extended care of seafarers,” said Rev. Philip Vandercook, president of Global Maritime Ministries in the port of New Orleans and long-time member of PMI.

“PMI is a group of evangelical port workers. Sharing the great commission is the core of our identity. It is the reason we do what we do,” said Vandercook.

Its mission clearly hinges on advancing the kingdom of God. Through equipping and assisting port chaplains around the world they strive to meet the spiritual needs of seafarers with practical care as an outgrowth of their relationships with Christ.   

How they practice their port ministries is flexing. Its vision now includes further partnership with other organizations in the industry, more intentional cooperation, sharing resources and recruitment according to Vandercook.

“PMI has always had the characteristic of encouragement,” said Wodka. “I like everyone to be informed about what’s available. I am open to where we can provide support.”

Texas Port Ministry, Freeport, Texas, is celebrating a significant history also.

Director Chris Moore, a 10-year board member of Texas Port Ministry is two years into the directorship of the 50-year-old ministry in the Freeport Harbor community. TPM has continued its effectiveness at the waterfront thanks to solid footings and committed leadership along the way.  Moore confirms the value of PMI and the North American Maritime Ministry Association.

“I have learned and gained much through the conferences of each organization. People are gracious to help. Co-operating with amazing people across the globe helps as we grow,” he said.   

The Texas mission to seafarers also records humble beginnings of faith-filled men. In 1974, the port was more open with fewer gates and clearances allowing seafarers to move freely from their ships. Moore recounts the story of two men from Baptist churches who initially happened to notice seafarers in their community.  The two approached the Gulf Coast Baptist Association executive board.

“We need to take care of these seafarers,” they reportedly said.

As a result, a house located on the East end of Freeport began operating as a Seamen Center.

Today, 1,200 ships dock at the Freeport Harbor annually with about 22 seafarers each. Their care remains primary. In addition, concern and care for truckers and port workers was added 12 years ago. The ministry center, now located just beyond the port gate, serves them with a Mother Teresa point of view, said the director. Every soul matters.

“Even though we are small, we still have the great commission,” said Moore.

In the Freeport Harbor, forty volunteers from 20 churches help keep the Texas Port Ministry personal and relevant as the original commitment continues.

Photo: Rev. John Vandercook visits the docks in New Orleans

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Article audio (courtesy of Don Sheetz)

by Susan Huppert, NAMMA

Knitting needles bring Christmas joy and global impact.

Knitting, like other hobbies, can be personally gratifying when you see the end product. 

But, for 102-year-old Ms. Vicki, in Fresno, Calif., satisfaction isn’t what she sees when she finishes knitting hats and scarves for The Seamens’ Church Institute. It’s what she knows about the items she donates. By Christmas, a seafarer on the cold deck of a massive ship will likely pull her gift snuggly over his ears and know that someone cares.   

“The essence of Christmas at Sea is making seafarers feel at home,” said Joanne Bartosik, Senior Manager, Development and Christmas at Sea.  

The Christmas at Sea program attempts to bridge the gap between stranger and friend through a well-coordinated effort to give a Christmas gift to each seafarer that comes their way.

Donations from around the country are delivered to the program headquarters for months before Christmas. Sets including a hand-knit scarf and hat affectionally referred to as “knits” are key components of the Christmas giving campaign. These knitters are members of the oldest, largest knitting-crocheting charity in North America. Volunteers also sew ditty bags and write personal cards as they align with the mission of the Christmas at Sea outreach.

Meanwhile, others continue to jockey to secure a slot on the Port Packing calendar. These individuals and groups complete the gift bags for delivery by adding hotel sized toiletries, candies, playing cards and other items. The network of commitment across the globe culminates annually just prior to Thanksgiving when the SCI chaplains and Associate Chaplains begin delivering the Christmas gifts.

Last year, 923 individuals and 127 volunteer groups participated in the Christmas effort by combining 19,958 donations for those at sea. This year’s year-to-date numbers are up by 36 percent according to Bartosik.

“I don’t have to recruit,” said Bartosik.

“We live in a fluid society and people take their knitting and their stories with them and they share it with their friends,” she said.

It is also generational. A daughter picks it up from her mother or grandmother.”

The program dates back 125 years according to Tim Wong, Director of the SCI port ministry in Newark, N.J. Port Newark serves the largest east coast port complex in the U.S. Wong oversees the chaplains who distribute the gifts to the international seafarers on the vessels which the center serves during the Christmas season in Port Newark, Port Elizabeth and the Staten Island and Saint Carteret terminals.

The Newark center offers all seafarers, port workers and truckers an opportunity to relax, access Wi-Fi and find spiritual nourishment and advocacy for those at sea. It provides hospitality to strangers, a fitting description of seafarers who are strangers in each port where they dock.

The program keeps growing, as does the potential impact. With nearly 2 million international seafarers worldwide there is plenty of room for more needle workers to make a global difference.

Whether you are 102 years old, or like Helga Krug in North Carolina who donated 986 knits to Christmas at Sea last year, every gift matters to those living and working at sea.

Photo: Seamen’s Church Institute Flickr

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by Susan Huppert, NAMMA

Following COVID-19 limitations and a long-anticipated re-opening, seafarers are now flooding the new Seafarers’ House, a multi-faith mission to seafarers in Port Everglades, Florida. The center offering pool tables, internet, an in-house store and relaxing facilities is used by seafarers from many countries. In addition, meeting rooms and designated space are now available just in time for the Christmas shoebox program, which launched on November 17.

“We are overflowing with seafarers and port workers,” said Erika Sears, a five-year staff member. ‘Yesterday, we had seven cruise ships in port.”

As the Christmas shoebox program manager, Sears coordinates the organization of donations and the 50 volunteers who assist with preparing and delivering the shoeboxes.

“The seafarers are always happy to see us. They appreciate the gifts of toiletries as it saves them money, leaving more to send home to their families,” she said. “They are impressed when they learn that the cookies included with their gifts are home-baked by someone who cares about them.”

The shoebox program is a year-long effort to raise awareness and secure continued support. Sears promotes the giving campaign among churches, corporate donors and individuals. The year of pandemic caused a drop in support. Building back is a process.

“Our biggest challenge is that people will continue to donate,” she said. “We see that the donations we receive, mostly from individuals, are less than normal because of the current economy.”

However, this year, one donation was an unexpected blessing.

According to Executive Director Jennifer Stewart, the ministry was pleasantly shocked when Royal Caribbean Cruise Line leadership generously donated six pallets of filled shoeboxes.

Seafarers House gratefully receives support from other port businesses, including Cliff Berry, Total Marine Solutions, and WISTA, alongside those from churches, youth groups and individuals.  

Maintaining healthy relationships with the business and church communities is a commitment the Seafarers’ House feels is primary to a successful ongoing ministry.

Historically, 1,000 boxes have been given during the holiday season. This year, within the first three days, 400 boxes were given out. The 2023 goal is 1,500.

Individuality matters as far as possible. Chinese seafarers receive boxes filled with items specific to their culture thanks to volunteer Chinese chaplains. In addition, as the number of female seafarers increases, gift boxes designated for women are also prepared.

The individual attention matters to the ministry’s volunteer Debra Hoecker, affectionally known as the “Shoebox Queen.” The 73-year-old volunteer thrives in the program’s backroom operations.

“It is hard to put in a nutshell why I do this,” she said. “I enjoy it. It is my way of giving back.”

Her seven-year role leaves Hoecker well acquainted with the sacrifices seafarers make as they move the world’s goods. She recounted that “during the pre-COVID and COVID time, seafarers were not allowed off their ships for months and months and months.”

The global pandemic has passed, but her commitment remains.

“Mariners on containerships sacrifice a lot to do these jobs,” said the Shoebox Queen. “The gift boxes give dignity to seafarers for the incredibly hard job they do. I add ribbons to the boxes to say, it’s a big deal.

“It is dear to my heart. It really is.”

Photo: Facebook Seafarers’ House

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by Susan Huppert, NAMMA

The Seamen’s Church Institute of Philadelphia and South Jersey cares for seafarers who travel the globe and pass along the Delaware River. Commonly unnoticed, they absorb personal sacrifices, including war strife, to transport goods we use in our everyday lives.  

It is fitting that at Christmas, they receive an extra measure of care through the traditional Ditty Bag Program. The center’s staff and its dedicated volunteers are diligently working to make a difference serving 26 terminals in two states along the River. The outreach includes ships docked up to one hour north and one-half hour south of the center.

“It’s a bit of a miracle every year,” said Executive Director Helene Pierson. “All year long people are knitting, collecting and dropping off items to include in the gift bags. It’s a major operation every year.”

The first notice of the annual program is sent to supporters in early Sept. As donations begin to arrive, volunteers manage mailings, data entry, and storage. Thanks to the Philadelphia Navy Yard, which made 2,500 square feet available, donations can be received and organized in preparation for the coordinated Christmas delivery.

“We have wonderful volunteers who show up to stuff the bags with donated gifts,” said Pierson.

Once filled, the bulging red bags are then assembled into larger clear bags for delivery to ships. During December, the mission’s 10 ship visitors hoist bags up gangways, triggering smiles and anticipation among the multinational crews. When assistance is needed with the nearly 40-pound load, willing young seafarers will scurry down to assist.

At times, a small Christmas tree pulled from storage is waiting in a mess room or common area. The simple gifts will likely be opened while at sea far from any worker’s family or home. It makes a difference.

“Crew members send thank you notes and heart-warming photos back. It truly feels they are grateful to be thought of when away from their families,” said Piersen.

The SCI of Philadelphia and South Jersey proactively serves the human needs of the maritime community from all countries and cultures. The mission extends care for those who live and work at sea reaching back to 1848. At that time, a “Floating Chapel” was established in the Philadelphia port for the personal care and support of this unique people group. The original bell from the Floating Chapel, displayed at the center testifies to the longevity of outreach and duration of care for those who work at sea. The Ditty Bag Program puts hands and feet to the commitment.

Last December the mission visited 110 ships with 2,500 ditty bags filled with hand-knit watch caps and scarves, playing cards, sewing kits, writing supplies, candies, cough drops and more. This year may likely be more.  

Whether large or small, all contributions to the program are making Christmas joyful on the Delaware River for many people we might otherwise never get to meet.

Photo: Seamen’s Church Institute of Philadelphia & South Jersey. You can learn more about how to support SCI and the Ditty Bag program here.

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