Catharina Silberman, Stiftelsen Sjömanskyrkan i Stockholm – Sjömansinstitutet 100 år. 2017.

The 100th anniversary volume of the Stockholm Seamen’s Church and Institute is a rich and detailed account of an organization that has continually adapted to the needs of seafarers over a century. Established during World War I in 1917, the Stockholm Seamen’s Church was initially focused on organizing welfare for Swedish sailors. Over time, particularly in the 1930s, the organization expanded its role by providing education to unemployed seafarers. This aspect became so central to its mission that the Sjömansinstitutet remains a well-known institution, with its large neon signage still visible on the former building in Stockholm’s harbor.

The book offers a comprehensive look at how the Seamen’s Church evolved alongside the maritime industry. As Stockholm’s port expanded and shifted locations, the church adapted its services, ensuring that it remained accessible to those who needed it most. In the early years, it was heavily engaged with Swedish seafarers, but as local maritime activity declined, the mission pivoted to caring for foreign crews arriving in Stockholm’s Frihamnen and Nynäshamn ports. The adaptability of the organization is captured well in one reflection: “We could see that the world was changing, but our vision remained clear—we continued to serve seafarers, wherever they were.”

One of the key strengths of this book is its ability to provide a microcosm of the history of maritime affairs through the lens of the Seamen’s Church. The changes in global trade, shifting port infrastructures, and the economic realities of seafaring are all reflected in the evolution of the organization. “We once served Swedish sailors almost exclusively; now we find ourselves welcoming crews from the Philippines, India, and Eastern Europe.” This shift was not without challenges, but the Seamen’s Church consistently found ways to remain relevant.

One particular feature that distinguishes the Stockholm Seamen’s Church from other similar organizations is its use of holiday homes and a retirement home for seafarers. This aspect of welfare provision is quite distinct compared to many international counterparts. “A home away from the sea was just as important as a refuge in the harbor,” as one former director put it. Another unique aspect was the publication of their magazine, “With Sailors in Port,” which ran for many years and provided valuable insights into both the work of the organization and the lives of seafarers themselves. “Through our magazine, we could share stories, challenges, and even triumphs of those who passed through our doors.”

Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of this history is the concept of sailing chaplains—ministers who would actually board vessels and travel with crews. This model of chaplaincy, unlike the stationary port ministries, was a distinctive feature of the Stockholm Seamen’s Church for a number of years. “Being able to meet someone with a duty of confidentiality and who does not work on board can be very welcome. The Seamen’s Church wants to be where the people are. Since reality, including short layovers and tight work schedules, makes it difficult for seafarers to come to us, the Seamen’s Church has to come to them.” Though this practice has become rare, the book raises the question of whether it might be revived in some form to meet the realities of modern seafaring.

The book is also commendable for its use of interviews with individuals who were involved in the organization for many years. Their long memories provide valuable firsthand perspectives on the changes that have taken place over the past half-century. “When I started, the ships stayed in port for days, even weeks. Now, we’re lucky if we get a few hours with the crew before they sail again,” one longtime team member remarked. The depth of historical insight provided by these interviews is an invaluable addition to the written record.

This book effectively demonstrates how the mission (the ‘how’) of an organization can change over time while staying true to its vision (the ‘why’). The Stockholm Seamen’s Church continuously adapted to shifting maritime realities but always remained focused on serving seafarers. Its history serves as a microcosm of the broader maritime industry, reflecting both its growth and its challenges. The organization’s distinctive features—such as its holiday homes, retirement home, long-running magazine, and sailing chaplains—are interesting points of comparison and contrast to other seafarers’ welfare institutions worldwide. The book benefits from the voices of those who lived this history, providing depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Read the book in .pdf version here.

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The meeting gathered a diverse group of attendees, including representatives from various seafarers’ centers, industry stakeholders, and local ministry leaders. Participants came from ports around Florida, bringing perspectives from both cruise-focused and cargo-centric ministries. The event facilitated discussions on best practices, financial sustainability, and the growing importance of mental health resources for seafarers.

The cruise industry’s presence at the meeting was highlighted by a presentation from Donnie Brown, Vice President of Maritime Policy for the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). He underscored the importance of seafarers’ welfare and the industry’s gratitude for the work of maritime ministries. “Seafarers’ welfare organizations provide invaluable support to the men and women who keep our industry moving. Their dedication to meeting the needs of crew members, whether through practical assistance or emotional and spiritual care, does not go unnoticed,” Brown remarked.

Throughout the day, several key themes emerged in the presentations and discussions. One major focus was the increasing need for mental health support among seafarers, particularly in light of ongoing global crises and the stresses of life at sea. Eric White shared about the work of the ITF and his role as an inspector. Additionally, there was significant discussion on the logistics of providing services to cruise ship crews, as well as strategies for fundraising and financial sustainability in maritime ministry.

Dr. Christopher Graham shared insights from his ongoing research into the financial resources of seafarers’ welfare providers in the United States. “We must approach this work not as isolated efforts, but as a collective mission. By working together, sharing resources, and learning from one another, we can better meet the needs of seafarers and ensure that they receive the care and respect they deserve,” Graham said.

A tour of the Canaveral Port Ministry facility showcased the breadth of services offered to visiting crew members, including free Wi-Fi, a chapel, and a welcoming space for rest and relaxation. Mark Wodka reflected on the holistic approach of maritime ministry, stating, “Serving seafarers means recognizing and addressing their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. Each crew member who walks through our doors has a story, and it is our calling to provide them with the support and care they need, whatever that may look like.”

The meeting was made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors and volunteers, who provided lunch and logistical assistance throughout the day. Thank you to CBI and to the Eric White and the ITF for support. The hospitality of the Canaveral Port Ministry played a key role in making the event a success, ensuring that attendees felt welcomed and well cared for.

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The course offered an overview of key issues in maritime ministry, addressing topics such as advocacy, ship visiting best practices, the Maritime Labour Convention, and industry trends. Participants came from around the world, including Hong Kong, the US Virgin Islands, Trinidad, Argentina, Panama, Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States. Many of the students were at the beginning of their careers in maritime ministry, and the hybrid format of the course allowed them to engage with foundational materials in advance, maximizing their learning experience once on-site.

A highlight of the program was the close study of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) led by Phil Schifflin of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy. This provided an essential framework for understanding the rights and protections afforded to seafarers. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to engage with maritime industry experts, including Prof. Dr. Max Johns, who provided insight into the impact of recent events in the Red Sea on global shipping. The course also aligned with the NAMMA regional meeting, bringing in 25 additional participants from across the Texas Gulf Coast, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Beyond classroom learning, the course allowed participants to experience the Houston maritime community firsthand. They attended daily prayer led by the chaplains of the Houston International Seafarers’ Center and visited the Norwegian Seamen’s Church, where they enjoyed lunch and prayer with Rev. Line Kvalvaag. A tour of the Houston Ship Channel aboard the MV Sam Houston provided a deeper appreciation for the scale and complexity of maritime operations. These experiences reinforced the importance of community, faith, and practical support in maritime ministry.

The success of this training was made possible thanks to generous sponsors and partners. A special thanks is extended to the Houston International Seafarers’ Center and Port Houston, whose Port Community Grant helped defray meal and other costs. Hosting the course in a major maritime hub like Port Houston allowed participants to engage directly with a vibrant seafaring community in a way that would not have been possible in a smaller port.

As the week concluded, participants reflected on their experiences through the “One Photo” assignment, in which they selected a single image that captured a key aspect of their learning and shared the story behind it. This exercise allowed for meaningful personal insights and reinforced the themes of the course.

With the next ISWMM-Houston session already on the horizon for February 2026, this training continues to be an invaluable resource for those dedicated to the welfare of seafarers. The program not only equips participants with knowledge and practical skills but also strengthens the bonds within the global maritime ministry community, ensuring that those who serve seafarers do so with confidence, professionalism, and compassion.

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Friday 8 November 2024, the board, advisors, and volunteers of Zeemanshuis The Bridge in Oostvoorne were guests at Miniworld on the Weena in Rotterdam for the unveiling of The Bridge’s miniature model.

In his speech, Arend Boer from Stichting Welzijn Zeevarenden Rotterdam emphasized the importance of hospitality and respect for seafarers—the people who are so vital to our economy yet often live for months amid the noise of the ship and port.

The Bridge has been given a beautiful spot in the largest miniature world in Europe. The platform of 850 square meters displays models of the coast, polder landscapes, and, notably, the port of Rotterdam which plays an important role in Miniworld. The seafarers’ centre fits in perfectly.

The representatives of The Bridge are immensely proud that “a second version of The Bridge” can now be seen in Miniworld at a scale of 1:87. There is also deep gratitude toward Stichting Welzijn Zeevarenden Rotterdam, Stichting Meemaken in Miniatuur, and Miniworld for this gesture, which demonstrates their appreciation for seafarers and for the work that the volunteers at The Bridge do to support the well-being of these individuals.

Photos: Courtesy of Jaap van Asten

Find out more about The Bridge here.

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By Jason Zuidema, NAMMA

On Thursday, August 29, the Port of Montreal was the setting for a meaningful and festive fundraising lunch in support of the Mariner’s House of Montreal. The event, catered by Le Muscadin Restaurant—renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine since 1987—brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the port community, all united by a common cause: to support the well-being of the seafarers who pass through the Port of Montreal.

The lunch featured 35 sponsored tables, each representing different segments of the maritime community, from shipping companies to local businesses. Organized by the dynamic Carolyn Osborne and Cindy Fairhurst, along with the dedicated staff of Mariner’s House, the event was a true testament to the collaborative spirit within the port. A team of 20 volunteers, led by the brilliant Maître D’ Mr. Julian Hung, ensured that the luncheon was both elegant and smoothly executed.

Carolyn Osborne, Manager of Mariner’s House, took a moment to express her deep gratitude to those who made the event possible. “This event brings members of the maritime community together in the port. Proceeds from the event this year will be good. We couldn’t do the event without supporters and volunteers. I am so grateful to them,” she said.

Julie Gascon, President and CEO of the Port of Montreal, spoke to the critical importance of mariner’s houses worldwide, emphasizing how essential they are to the safety, well-being, and mental health of seafarers. “Montreal cannot be prouder than having one beautiful Mariner’s House and to be part of the adventure of supporting those who feed us and provide all of what we need to live and are doing amazing work day in and day out on our international waters and Canadian waters,” Gascon stated.

The significance of the maritime community’s involvement was further highlighted by Ms. Gascon, who said, “Without mariners there is no economy, no growth, no resiliency, there is no supply chain. They are the people who ensure that goods move. They are so critical to everything that we hold dear and everything that we do.”

Chris Hall, President and CEO of the Shipping Federation of Canada, echoed these sentiments, stressing the vital role of facilities like Mariner’s House. “Seafarer welfare is at the top of most people’s agenda in the maritime industry, so supporting events like this is absolutely mission critical. Without facilities like Mariner’s House and others across the country, then who is going to take care of seafarers when in port? They are busy and have lots of responsibilities and they need that home away from home. That is so important. Without events like this, that home away from home gets less homey,” Hall remarked.

Domenic Bravi, President of the Board of Directors for Mariner’s House, expressed his heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, from sponsors to volunteers, and acknowledged the critical role of Carolyn Osborne and the Mariner’s House staff. “We need to take care of the needs of the sailors that come to the Port of Montreal,” Bravi emphasized. He encouraged the entire Montreal port community and those in the shipping business to continue supporting Mariner’s House, calling it “one of the best causes to support in the marine industry.”

The luncheon was not only a celebration of the hard work and dedication of those involved but also a reminder of the vital services that Mariner’s House provides to seafarers. Covering the full breadth of the 26 km port, the chaplains and staff of Mariner’s House, along with their colleagues from the Ministry to Seafarers and Stella Maris, work tirelessly to meet the needs of seafarers, whether on ship or shore. They provide transportation, a welcoming space to relax with free Wi-Fi and recreational activities, and the opportunity to purchase personal items—all while offering a chance to connect with someone other than their crewmates.

As the lunch drew to a close, it was clear that the Mariner’s House of Montreal is more than just a facility; it is a lifeline for the thousands of seafarers who pass through the port each year. The support shown at this event ensures that Mariner’s House will continue to be a “home away from home” for those who work tirelessly on the seas, far from their families and homes.

Learn more about Mariner’s House at: marinershouse.ca

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Throughout the course of this conference, we are reflecting on the topic of adapting to change and sustaining our work. Cedric [Rautenbach] shared one definition of sustainability yesterday, which I will draw on for our reflections this Evening. “Sustainability refers to the ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.” Now those three words “continuously over time” really stood out to me because they speak about longevity, the longevity of our work, our ability to be there year after year for seafarers.

Doing something year after year has a tendency to encourage us to settle into patterns, habits and a set way of doing things, because that is our nature as humans. We are creatures of habit. What we often don’t consider is that, paradoxically, the thing that enables our longevity, that is our ability to be there continuously for seafarers year after year, is actually our adaptability, our willingness to change. Sometimes, year on year, show at least the two need to go hand in hand. I mean, let’s be honest, none of us really likes change. Change is uncomfortable.

And that takes us back to our passage for today, where Jesus is encouraging those present and encouraging us to do what we often don’t like to do, which is to be adaptable and to be open to change. So looking at this, this story, the Pharisees and the teachers of the Lord came to Jesus, because what his disciples were doing was a break from tradition. They were changing things. John’s disciples fasted and prayed. The disciples of the Pharisees fasted and prayed. When your disciples go on eating and drinking.

So in other words, the question they were asking Jesus was, why are you changing things?

The heart of Jesus response to them was simply this, it’s all about timing. It’s about timing.

What is appropriate in one season may not be appropriate to the next season. The friends of the bridegroom don’t fast when he is with them, or the time will come when they do. So it’s all about timing.

And then Jesus used two illustrations to explain why change at the appropriate time matters. And both of those parables demonstrate to us what happens when we don’t adapt to change.

Things become unsustainable. Over time they are unable to continue. The garment is ruined.

The old wineskin bursts and the new one is lost. Sustainability requires change of us, and Wimpie [Van Schoor] and Jaco [Leeuwner] spoke to that brilliantly earlier on in their presentations. So looking at the the two parables that Jesus used, the first one in verse 36 he says, he says he told them this parable, no one tears a piece out of the new garment to patch an old one. Otherwise they would have torn the new garment, and the patch from the new will not match the old.

Sometimes the things that we do in trying to create results in our ministry often amount to tearing a piece of a new cloth and attempting to use it to patch an old one, maybe in the past, what we were doing was really effective.

And then God gives us the new picture of how we can be more effective, the new thing that God wants to do with all the surrounding instructions for change can be likened to a brand new piece of cloth. However, if you’ve been used to doing things a certain way, seeing the need for change can be difficult, so we assume that God will use the old formula to create a new result. Maybe it’s trying to get us to change our structure or our systems or our attitudes or our habits. Maybe he’s introducing us to a new approach to ministry, but we don’t see it because of what we’re already used to.

So what do we do? We carefully cut out the new picture that God has given us from its context, and then we attach it to our own way of thinking, our old attitudes and our old actions. And then we step back and we admire it, and we hope that it looks like a brand new outfit. But that doesn’t work. Jesus says in Mark chapter two and verse 21 no one sews a patch of on shrunk cloth on an old garment, otherwise the new piece will pull away from the old making the tear worse. So God is not calling us to attach new vision to old mindsets, because if we attach a new patch to an old garment, the implications are threefold. And so I think they are threefold.

We spoil the new cloth by cutting a piece from it. The new patch is too much for the old garment to Handle. When you wash it, it shrinks, and then it makes things worse by tearing the old further. And then also there is a mismatch between the old and the new, because they don’t look good together.

So the question is this, what mindset, what attitude, what method, what system is God asking us to change because it does not match what he wants to do next in seafarers ministry?

Now going on to Jesus’ second illustration, which is an interesting one. Verses seven and 13, it says, “And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise the new wine will burst the skins, the wine will run out, and the wine skins will be ruined. No new wine must be poured into new wineskins.”

Now, the wineskins that Jesus was talking about were made from goat skin or sheep skin, and when new wine was poured into them, there was a gradual fermentation process that would stretch the stretch the wine skin and expand the skin to its limits. Now, when a wine skin is new, it is pliable. It is flexible. Someone talked about that a few minutes ago. It is adaptable, so it can withstand the pressure of the fermentation gasses that are released on the new wine with time that wine skin becomes dry and brittle, and that’s what Jesus was making reference to. It has been expanded to the maximum of what it can take, and it is no longer flexible enough to withstand the pressure of newness.

So I think the question to ask ourselves is this, are there aspects of the way that we think or the way that we do our work which have become dry and brittle and are no longer able to accommodate the current needs of seafarers? This parable serves as a challenge to me and to all of us to receive change with an inquiring mind that is pliable, that is adaptable and that is open, so that we can accommodate the new ways that God wants to use us in service of seafarers.

So there are emerging seafarer needs that will require a mind shift, an attitude adjustment, a paradigm shift if we’re going to meet those needs effectively? Yesterday, Captain Ian [Hlongwane] challenged us to examine our thinking around what seafarers need most from us in times where they’re facing fatigue from their growing work schedules. Are we expecting that to fit into our schedules and our way of doing things? Or are we open to try new methods? Whatever those might be, we need to constantly be examining whether certain things we do are meeting the current needs of seafarers or the needs we once knew that they had.

Yesterday, also, Cedric [Rautenbach] spoke about crossing the road going outside a comfort zone to meet the needs of seafarers. Could it be that some of the things we are doing, we continue to do, not because they are effective, but because they are comfortable? Jesus alluded to this as he concluded this parable, verse 39 says no one after drinking old wine. Wants the new for they say the old is better. Very often we don’t want the new because the old is familiar. It’s comfortable. So we say the old is better. It’s hard to go from what we know, especially if we feel that it has been working for us, to something that is new, something that is uncertain and that takes us outside our comfort zone.

So let it be our prayer that we leave this conference with fresh vision, new ideas and an open heart to accommodate new things into the rhythms of our ministry to seafarers.

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I love a good podcast. In 2020 and 2022, I put out lists of recent podcasts that were insightful and encouraging for those in seafarers’ welfare. A new list this year is not exhaustive, but a selection of episodes that can be useful. Thank you to the many different producers and presenters who make listening enjoyable.

Coffee with a Port Chaplain

New England Seafarers Mission (NESM) is an agent of grace that serves the international seafarers of the maritime business community. During a coffee break, the host sits with Rev. Stephen Cushing, the Port Chaplain of NESM, to hear about the work of advocacy, companionship, support, and prayer given to the often forgotten people at sea, the seafarers. All the episodes are great, but check out episode 11, The Sound of NESM, that lets you hear what seafarers’ ministry sounds like.

BBC Sounds – The Food Chain – “Hungry at Sea”

Over two million people work in the international shipping trade, and they are often at sea for months at a time. That’s a lot of meals being made by the cook on board, and their work is crucial for keeping the crew happy. Ruth Alexander hears from seafarers about why that makes “cookie” the most important person on board a ship and why, in some cases, crew members are going hungry. A former captain of merchant vessels tells us how food is used for so-called “facilitation payments” to corrupt officials, and why crews can sometimes be powerless to stop port officials filling up suitcases with food from the ship’s stores. We also hear about international efforts to try to tackle corruption in ports and increase welfare standards for seafarers.

The Last Dinosaur Podcast “Episode 71: Linking the Seas: Satellite Innovation in Maritime with Chris Watson” – In this episode, host Chris Aversano delves into the dynamic realm of maritime connectivity with our distinguished guest, Chris Watson, from KVH Industries, a global leader in mobile connectivity solutions. As we explore the ongoing evolution of satellite telecommunications, notably with new entrants like Starlink, we discuss the profound impacts on maritime operations from operational efficiencies to crew welfare. Join us to uncover how cutting-edge technologies are transforming connectivity at sea.

Human Rights in Business – “Working in a warzone: what risks do seafarers face?” In this episode, IHRB’s Francesca Fairbairn talks to John Attenborough from Mission to Seafarers and Ian Ralby, an expert in maritime law, about the safety and security of seafarers during times of conflict. Listen for accounts from seafarers caught in attacks on commercial shipping vessels in the Red Sea; insights into the complexities of maritime law that can leave seafarers vulnerable; and how shipping companies’ response to attacks on their ships and crew has evolved over the years.

Shipping Podcast – “Seafarers – the unsung heroes” Imagine being held hostage onboard a ship, which is your workplace, for seven months! Chirag Bahri is now the International Operations Manager at the International Seafarers’ Welfare & Assistance Network, ISWAN, but he knows the feeling and is willing to share. Picture the fear, the willingness to obey, and the uncertainty that permeates the ship. The team’s dynamics, once a cohesive unit, now shift dramatically. How will it all unfold? This is the gripping story of Chirag Bahri’s hostage experience. Listen to Chirag Bahri; he has a story to tell. This episode is a collaboration between Shipping Podcast and Sailor Today.

Übers Meer – “Über die Menschen auf den Meeren: Matthias Ristau und Dirk Obermann von der Deutschen Seemannsmission” [in German] Listening to seafarers, addressing their needs, providing accommodation, strengthening their community, establishing contact with their families, making them visible in our society, maintaining or restoring their dignity: the people of the German Seamen’s Mission are responsible for all this and so much more. Nikolaus Gelpke talks to two of them, Matthias Ristau, pastor and general secretary, and Dirk Obermann, deacon and responsible for psychosocial emergency care, in this new episode of the mare podcast.

Sea Views – “Shipping A Global Perspective” This podcast by CHIRP with funding from The Seafarers’ Charity talks with thought provoking experts and experienced practitioners in maritime. Every guest brings their own perspective on how to bring about change so that all seafarers will benefit from a safer and better life at sea. This episode is a conversation with Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping and covers a fascinating range of current and future issues from recruitment challenges, to piracy and security and the criminalisation of the seafarer.

Catholic News Podcast – “Port Chaplain on the joys and challenges of supporting Seafarers and Fishers” Ahead of Sea Sunday 2024, the day we come together to pray for seafarers and fishers to thank them for the vital role they play in all of our lives, the podcast spoke to Deacon Nick O’Neill, the Senior Area Port Chaplain for the South of England and Wales for Catholic charity Stella Maris. In this Catholic News podcast, Deacon Nick discusses the joys and challenges of his job supporting seafarers with host Fionn Shiner.

The post Great Podcasts for those in Seafarers’ Welfare 2024 appeared first on NAMMA.

The following day, I had the pleasure of sharing a meal with the chaplain and dedicated volunteers of the mission. Their personal stories and motivations for their long-term commitment to the mission were both inspiring and enlightening. Here are some key insights and best practices that emerged from our conversation:

Key Motivations and Best Practices:

1. Personal Connections: Many volunteers were motivated to join the mission because they knew someone already involved. Personal connections play a crucial role in volunteer recruitment.
2. Small Gestures Matter: Volunteers emphasized the importance of small acts of kindness and attention to detail in their work.
3. Finding the Right Fit: It’s essential to match volunteers’ talents and interests with appropriate tasks. Allowing them to discover their strengths within the mission can be more effective than assigning tasks without consideration of individual skills.
4. Community and Comradery: The mission provides a sense of community and comradery, which is a significant factor in volunteer retention. Many volunteers stay because they enjoy the mission’s purpose and the relationships they build.
5. Volunteer Recognition: Regular recognition, along with invitation to a special Eucharist and lunch, helps volunteers feel appreciated and valued. This practice is essential for long-term engagement.
6. Clear Goals and Accountability: Having clear organizational goals and being prepared to communicate and justify decisions enhances volunteers’ sense of purpose and responsibility.
7. Open Communication and Resources: Maintaining an up-to-date handbook and ensuring open communication are critical. Volunteers need to feel that the organization is listening and responsive to their feedback.
8. Diverse Recruitment Channels: Utilizing various platforms, such as social media and community outreach, can attract a diverse group of volunteers. However, some challenges include the need for drivers over 25 due to insurance requirements and the limited availability of volunteers with certain backgrounds.
9. Adapting to Changing Demographics: With declining church attendance and changing attitudes among younger people, the mission needs to explore new recruitment strategies, such as partnering with schools and other community organizations.
10. Inclusion and Safety: Ensuring a safe and inclusive environment is crucial, especially during ship visits. While there is some diversity among volunteers, there is a need for greater representation from various communities.

The Thunder Bay Mission to Seafarers volunteer corps offers valuable lessons in volunteer engagement and retention. By fostering personal connections, recognizing contributions, and maintaining clear communication and goals, the mission successfully sustains its volunteer base and continues to provide critical support to seafarers. These best practices can serve as a model for other organizations looking to enhance their volunteer programs.

The post Volunteer Best Practice: Learning from Thunder Bay Mission to Seafarers appeared first on NAMMA.

Andrew, can you tell us a bit about your experience? What has been a standout for you in your experience of serving seafarers for more than a decade?

Yeah, it’s been an amazing period.

I joined the mission at the beginning of 2013, roughly about the same time as you did, Jason. So, we’ve kind of worked in parallel, and if I might say so, it’s been an absolute pleasure to have worked with you and alongside you on so many matters. You’ve been an inspiration to so much maritime welfare work around the world, and you’ve been a great friend to me and a big personal support in many ways. So, thank you very much for that.

It’s been an incredible period of time. That period has obviously been marked by the pandemic in particular, followed by the Ukraine conflict, and now all those issues in the Red Sea. I constantly say the world’s crises are often felt first and hardest by seafarers and their families, and that remains true.

As I leave the mission, the world is a great deal more fragile than it was in 2013. Tragically, I suspect more trials and crises lie ahead in which seafarers will be the first to feel the hardships. That has been a big feature, and the way we worked together to sustain maritime welfare through the pandemic was probably the greatest crisis to hit seafarers since the Second World War, equaling that in some ways.

It was amazing to work together with others to sustain our work during that period when seafarers were suffering the most acute distress. Jason, if I might say so, the work you led on vaccination during that period was groundbreaking, and Mission to Seafarers was very glad indeed to support and help with that. That’s just one aspect of what we and others did during that period.

This period was also marked by significant changes within shipping. We’ve continued to see the speeding up of turnaround times and the increasing reduction in crew sizes, with all that’s meant for maritime welfare. It’s also been a period marked by the increasing availability of WiFi on board. Although far from universal, many ships now have much more affordable and stronger WiFi, which is clearly changing the communication scene, such an important part of what missions have been working on for over a hundred years.

This has been a significant factor we’re all adjusting to, and it affects what it means for centers around the world and so on. It’s been a period marked by change, and like all societies, we at Mission to Seafarers and all our colleagues’ societies within ICMA are adapting to that change in different ways.

One of the things that has marked this period for us at the mission is trying to ensure that our work is modern, fresh, and relevant to what seafarers need now, and that our centers are welcoming and provide the right kind of services in a changing world. There’s a lot that’s been changing and a lot that we’ve had to adjust to, and that remains a work in progress for us and others.

However, many of the challenges faced by seafarers remain constant, as they have done over so many years. The most important is the massive distance from home, family, and friends for such long periods, with all that means for their family lives and all the stresses and anxieties that brings, in addition to the other challenges seafarers face even in normal times.

I never cease to be moved by the extraordinary self-sacrifice of seafarers giving up so much for the betterment of their families and often their extended families. Much is changing, and much has changed, which presents a big challenge for all the societies as we continue to develop our work. But much remains constant. So, yeah, those are a few reflections.

What kind of advice would you have for other folks like myself or your successor, and the other leaders of the different ICMA organizations and seafarer centres around the world? What does it take to be a leader in seafarer welfare?

I think, well, I just, in relation to the ICMA thing,

I mean, one of the things I always say that has been really important to me is partnership. And I remain deeply supportive of the ICMA project.

I didn’t particularly want to be chairman of ICMA when I started, but in the end, I actually really enjoyed it. It was a pleasure to be working with you and my other colleagues on the board and beyond.

I think that if we’re going to be successful in working effectively with seafarers and using resources wisely to do the best we can for them, then working in partnership is critical. I would say to everyone across the sector that we need to continue working in the best partnership.

It can be problematic because sometimes we’re competitors as well as colleagues, and that can be an awkward tightrope to walk. However, in the end, I hope and believe that friendship wins out, and it’s critical. Not just friendships between societies, but the quality of partnerships we build within the wider shipping industry, with its organizations and companies, opens the doors to us in ports. These partnerships enable us access to ships, and at a time when shore leave and access to ships remain under pressure post-pandemic in many parts of the world, such partnerships have never been more important.

It’s a critical role for ICMA, and the relationships ICMA has with the ILO, the IMO, and beyond are really important to us all. The work you’ve done, Jason, on that front and in building those relationships has been critical. So, partnership is one of the things I would stress.

Another important aspect is remaining open and being prepared to adapt to change. We have wonderful people working for Mission to Seafarers, whether they’re paid or volunteers. This is true of all societies. I’ve met some incredible teams in many places across the world, and it’s amazing. However, many of those teams have been working in the same way for many years. It can be difficult to see new ways of working and developing your work, so keeping on the move and being open to change and development is really important. Sharing new, good practices is something that ICMA can and does do through its conferences and training, allowing us to learn from one another.

Apart from the Christian side of our work, which is fundamental and drives our desire to share God’s love with seafarers in practical ways, the importance of building the kingdom amongst seafarers remains critical to our mission. We are also a service provider within the industry. As one captain once said to me, “Happy seafarers are good seafarers; happy seafarers are safe seafarers. You make seafarers happy.” It’s a wonderful summary of what all our organizations across ICMA are trying to do. We are in the seafarer’s happiness and wellbeing business, and that is a vital service.

This is a message we all need to share with the industry. I believe they recognize it on the whole, that we have a critical place alongside others in keeping the industry running and ensuring the workforce is happy and well. It has been an absolute pleasure to be in this business over the last 11 or 12 years. I’ve loved working with all my colleagues across Mission to Seafarers and widely across our other ICMA organizations. Thank you, Jason, for all you’ve done on that front.

A last question and something you evoked: the fact that we’re the International Christian Maritime Association, and you work for The Mission to Seafarers. Often you’re asked to preach, speak, give prayers, or say blessings in different places. Do you have a favourite biblical text or Christian metaphor that helps you tell the story in the best way?

Well, it’s been one of the things I’ve tried to do every year. I mean, we’re fortunate in Christian maritime work because the Bible is so full of texts and stories about the sea, many of which are very familiar to us.

But I think one of the things that I’ve always loved is that picture after Paul’s shipwreck in Acts. After days of turmoil at sea, fearing the immediate loss of their lives, the ship was wrecked, and they all came ashore—seafarers, Roman soldiers, Paul—staggering up the beach through cold and freezing waters, just avoiding drowning. They arrived in what they later realized was Malta.

There’s that wonderful passage that says the natives built a fire and welcomed them because they were cold. I can’t remember the exact quote, but they were probably cold and naked. It’s a wonderful picture of hospitality to me.

I’ve often had that picture in mind because that’s what we try to do in our ports around the world and through our wider projects. It’s to light that fire, keep the fires burning, and make sure that seafarers, in whatever ways we offer, feel warmly welcomed, loved, and cared for. That is essentially our Christian vocation.

So I’ve always loved that story among many other Bible stories and texts.

Thank you.

[The interview text has been lightly edited for grammar and clarity – please listen to the audio for the full interview].

The post Reflections on a Decade of Service: An Interview with Andrew Wright of the Mission to Seafarers appeared first on NAMMA.

During a recent visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia, the focus was firmly set on seafarers’ welfare.

Day 1: Exploring The Mission

On Monday, the tour of The Mission to Seafarers facility was led by Mission Manager Helen Glenn. Helen showcased the latest additions to the center, including a new deck and basketball court, a cozy sitting room, and several other upgrades. The Mission serves as a welcoming home away from home for seafarers, with a dynamic staff and more than 30 committed volunteers providing essential services like cooking, cleaning, and transportation.

Day 2: Presenting at the ACPA Board Meeting

The core purpose of the trip was to present a report on the financing of seafarers’ welfare centers in Canada at the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) Board meeting. This opportunity was facilitated by Debbie Murray, chair of the Canadian National Seafarers’ Welfare Board. The presentation highlighted the project’s origins in a Gap Analysis conducted the previous year and the support from the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, and other peer countries. The presentation spurred significant questions and some firm commitments to study the issue further with local teams.

Innovation at The Pier

The ACPA meetings were held at The Pier, a collaborative workspace in the Port of Halifax, home to several maritime startups. The sessions included pitches from over a dozen startups focused on AI, autonomous boats, improved drivetrains, better weather reporting, and eco-friendly innovations. The showcase of innovation aimed at increasing efficiency, enhancing safety, and reducing emissions was truly impressive.

The Mission to Seafarers Canada Board Meeting

Concurrently, The Mission to Seafarers Canada Board, led by chair Bud Streeter and including Liaison Bishop David Edwards of Fredrickton, NB, and Board member Eric Phinney from Port Saint John, was also in town. The region is managed by The Rev’d Judith Alltree, who has been instrumental on the National Seafarers’ Welfare Board, particularly in the initiative to revive a seafarers’ welfare mission in St. John’s, NL. Judith has announced her retirement but remains passionately involved until the end of her term.

Farewell to a Champion

This visit also marked the last overseas trip of The Rev’d Canon Andrew Wright of The Mission to Seafarers before his retirement. Andrew, a steadfast advocate for seafarers’ welfare for over a decade, shared his insights on the value of partnerships and the importance of staying focused on core missions.

Engaging with New Chaplains

Time was spent with new chaplain Jason Flinn and part-time chaplain Andrew Cooke, a retired Canadian Navy Chaplain. Jason, previously a teacher and now a grief counselor, provided fresh perspectives alongside the seasoned experience of Deacon Art Mitchell, Stella Maris chaplain and recipient of the Peter G. Bernard Award from the International Sailors’ Society Canada, recognizing significant contributions to seafarers’ welfare. It was great to meet also with Kevin Walker who assists NAMMA on research and other key programs.

Celebration of Volunteers

The three-day visit concluded with a celebration dinner for the volunteers at The Mission. The joy and camaraderie among the team were palpable. Helen Glenn, Andrew Wright, and Judith Alltree expressed their gratitude to the volunteers. The Halifax Mission to Seafarers stands as a model for missions worldwide, and the seafood chowder served at the celebration was a delightful end to a meaningful visit.

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