The White Fleet, comprised of ships like the SS Richelieu, SS St. Lawrence, SS Quebec, and SS Tadoussac, represented an era when passenger vessels were a vital connection between people and the waterways. Barthe brought this era to life, focusing on the lives of the crew members who kept these ships running smoothly and served the hundreds of passengers who traveled between Montreal, Quebec City, and the Saguenay region. His vivid descriptions of shipboard life reminded us how different—and often dangerous—maritime work was in that era. Safety standards were far from what we know today, and the challenges were immense.

Barthe’s attention to the human side of the story was particularly moving. He emphasized that his book is a tribute to the men and women who worked tirelessly aboard these ships, from deckhands and officers to kitchen staff and cabin boys. One striking detail he shared was the sheer scale of the operation: more than 180 crew members were needed to run a single vessel, with roles as varied as greasers maintaining the engines, chefs and their assistants preparing elaborate meals, and cabin stewards attending to passengers’ needs.

The audience, many of whom were from the local community, reacted warmly to Barthe’s stories. Some even recognized names and faces from the photos, sparking nostalgic memories of a bygone era.

Among the many fascinating anecdotes, Barthe described how Canada Steamship Lines (CSL) insisted on maintaining impeccable standards of cleanliness and presentation, with special attention given to the iconic funnels of the ships, which still feature CSL’s colors today. He also shared lighter moments, such as how Quebecois crew members cleverly earned tips from American passengers.

The photos also revealed snippets of life aboard the ships: card games, reading, and even model-making helped crew members pass the time, with some merry-making ashore during shore leave. These snapshots of everyday life brought depth to the stories and highlighted the humanity behind the history.

Barthe make clear that his presentation was not about ships or the passengers, but the hard-working crew: “My book is a homage to the people.”

The White Fleet may no longer grace the St. Lawrence, but thanks to Louis-Vincent Barthe, their legacy—and the people who made them extraordinary—lives on.

The post Exploring the History of the White Fleet on the St. Lawrence River appeared first on NAMMA.

Peter S. Goodman, global economics correspondent for The New York Times, offers a revealing exploration of the fragile and exploitative global supply chain in his 2024 book How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain. Written in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Goodman’s book takes readers on a journey into the inner workings of the system responsible for moving goods across the globe—a system that proved alarmingly vulnerable during the pandemic-induced supply chain crisis.

The book is divided into three parts: “The Great Supply Chain Disruption,” “Across the Water,” and “Globalization Comes Home.” Each section unpacks a critical element of how goods travel from their origin to the consumer, using the production and delivery of a single product—a glow-in-the-dark bath toy called Glo—as a case study. By tracing Glo’s journey from its Chinese factory to American households during the chaotic 2021 holiday season, Goodman sheds light on the myriad challenges facing the global supply chain and its reliance on efficiency at the expense of resilience and worker welfare.

Goodman’s investigation highlights what he finds to be labor exploitation embedded within the global supply chain. In his view, the pandemic was not just a disruption but a dramatic exposure of systemic flaws caused by decades of prioritizing cost-cutting and shareholder returns over sustainability and equity. Goodman asserts, “The answer, as I’ve come to understand it, was nothing less than the breakdown of globalization.” This breakdown, as he elaborates, revealed how workers across industries were subjected to dangerous, underpaid, and dehumanizing conditions to maintain the illusion of efficiency. From truck drivers to port workers to seafarers, Goodman reveals the hidden human cost of getting goods to consumers.

One of the book’s central critiques is directed at the “just-in-time” manufacturing model, which prioritizes minimizing inventory to reduce costs. Goodman explains, “The globalization to which we have become accustomed was propelled by an especially intoxicating form of efficiency, a concept known as just-in-time, or lean manufacturing.” While this model lowered costs and improved profits for the “investor class,” it left the global supply chain precariously vulnerable to disruptions. The author vividly describes how this relentless pursuit of efficiency led to a fragile, profit-driven system that seemed to treat workers’ time and well-being as expendable.

The first part of the book delves into why American companies, like the one producing the Glo toy, outsource manufacturing to countries like China. Goodman dissects the rhetoric of economic competition, arguing that it is not foreign nations but corporate executives who have undermined American manufacturing by prioritizing profits over middle-class wages. Goodman writes, “It was not China that was ransacking American sustenance. If a crime had been committed, it was an inside job.” Goodman contends that corporate greed, rather than external competition, drove the rise of offshore manufacturing. He frequently points to the role of the “investor class” in perpetuating this exploitative system, emphasizing their preference for short-term profits over long-term resilience.

Goodman also traces the historical roots of this system, connecting the adoption of just-in-time manufacturing practices to the broader deregulation of industries. He critiques the consulting firms, such as McKinsey & Company, that championed these practices, accusing them of shifting financial risks onto workers while enriching executives. He notes, “The lowest price frequently trumped all other considerations, and making products in China was generally the best way to deliver lower prices.” This race to the bottom in pricing, however, came at a significant human cost.

The book’s second section, “Across the Water,” examines the transportation of goods, focusing on the critical role of seafarers, ports, and truck drivers. Goodman describes the struggles of seafarers stuck aboard ships during the pandemic, unable to disembark for months due to quarantine restrictions. These workers endured isolation, poor working conditions, and limited communication with their families. Similarly, Goodman highlights the plight of port workers and truck drivers, who faced grueling schedules, low pay, and precarious employment. He describes how containerization, a technological breakthrough scaled by Malcolm McLean, revolutionized shipping but also introduced new challenges, such as gridlocked ports and exploited labor.

Goodman’s discussion of organized labor is particularly notable. He appreciates unions like the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) for securing fair wages and benefits for their members, contrasting their success with the struggles of other supply chain workers. However, he also critiques the systemic failure to support workers across the board, noting the widespread exploitation of short-haul truck drivers, railroad workers, and others.

In the final section, “Globalization Comes Home,” Goodman reflects on the shifting dynamics of global trade. He discusses efforts to diversify supply chains by moving manufacturing to countries like Vietnam and Mexico. However, he argues that these changes do not signify the end of globalization but rather a reconfiguration of its hubs. He writes, “Globalization is not really ending. The merits of international trade remained unimpeachable for the simple reason that no part of the planet was anywhere close to self-sufficiency.” Goodman emphasizes that the underlying issues of labor exploitation and corporate concentration remain unresolved, regardless of where goods are produced.

Goodman concludes with a call for systemic change, advocating for stronger labor protections, regulatory oversight, and a shift away from profit-driven decision-making. He writes, “The ultimate solution to the upheaval in the supply chain is the resumption of sensible regulations that promote competition and allow workers to bargain for their share of the proceeds.” He argues that addressing these issues is essential not only for the stability of the supply chain but also for the well-being of the workers who keep it running.

As a publication with an interest in seafarers’ welfare, we found Goodman’s insights particularly relevant. His exploration of the human cost of the supply chain resonated deeply, shedding light on the challenges faced by seafarers, port workers, and truck drivers alike. The book effectively underscores the interconnectedness of these roles, illustrating how the struggles of one group ripple across the entire system.

A powerful theme throughout the book is the profound impact the supply chain has on workers’ families. Goodman vividly portrays how the relentless demands of the industry strain personal relationships, often leaving workers isolated and disconnected from their loved ones. Seafarers, for instance, spend months at sea, missing milestones like anniversaries, birthdays, and graduations. Similarly, truck drivers face unpredictable schedules and long periods away from home, often leading to strained marriages and broken family bonds. Goodman captures the deep emotional toll of this lifestyle, quoting one worker who noted, “To have a successful family, you have to have a wife who’s very understanding. If not, you ain’t going to be married long.” This insight resonates beyond individual professions, highlighting how systemic pressures on workers reverberate through their personal lives, affecting not only their own well-being but also the stability of their families. It’s a sobering reminder of the hidden cost of efficiency-driven systems and a call to consider the human dimension in any discussion of the global supply chain.

The MARE Report

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Soon, Ukrainians, along with the rest of the world, will celebrate the birth of Christ. Christmas is always associated with miracles and brings hope. We rush to be with family and loved ones, anticipating reunions, asking for forgiveness, offering forgiveness, praying, and singing carols. Everyone tries to prepare for this meeting and be in a family circle. However, there are those who, because of their profession, cannot be with their families in the comfort of their homes—for example, seafarers. Father Oleksandr Smerechynskyi shared insights about how seafarers celebrate Christmas and the ministry to them and their families in an interview with the UGCC Information Department.

Celebrating Christmas at Sea: A Blend of National Traditions

— Father, could you please tell us how seafarers celebrate Christmas?
For seafarers, unlike us land-dwellers, as strange as it may sound, Christmas begins when the captain decides. Since life at sea is a constant production process, the captain determines the date for Christmas celebrations to avoid disrupting the workflow.

Last Saturday, for instance, on a ship docked in port, the crew celebrated Christmas because the next day they were heading to sea for a 25–27-day voyage to China. The captain decided that Christmas should be celebrated before departure, as challenges may arise during the journey. Seafarers are accustomed to this. Additionally, they perceive time differently due to constantly changing time zones during voyages.

Another aspect is that ship crews are often mixed—Filipinos, Ukrainians, Indians. Thus, Christmas celebrations on board are a mix of different national traditions. The crew may even consist of non-Christians, such as Chinese or Arab sailors. This diversity influences everything from the food prepared for Christmas to the decoration of the Christmas tree and the singing of carols.

The Apostleship of the Sea [Stella Maris] strives to create an atmosphere of home-like hospitality where seafarers can find solace for their souls amid the challenges of their voyages.

Serving Seafarers as a Priest

— Twenty-four years ago, the Catholic mission “Apostleship of the Sea” [Stella Maris] was officially registered. How do priests minister to seafarers?

Priestly ministry is becoming increasingly rare worldwide due to a vocation crisis in the Catholic Church. Typically, seafarers serve other seafarers, although under the Church’s supervision.

This ministry often appears to be one of hospitality, especially for foreign seafarers who arrive in ports unfamiliar with the local customs—particularly in Ukraine, amidst the war. As Christians, we fulfill the duty of hospitality to strangers.

Regarding the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church (UGCC), we plan to organize a network of services for Ukrainian seafarers scattered across the globe. Building a separate network is highly complex and costly, but our large global church communities aim to involve priests in this hospitality ministry.

Purely priestly ministry often involves simply listening to seafarers, who are far from home and their families. Many feel isolated and misunderstood, especially in mixed crews. Priests often serve as compassionate listeners who provide warmth and understanding.

The Apostleship of the Sea’s [Stella Maris] motto, “Home away from home,” reflects its mission to create a hospitable environment where seafarers can find peace and rest for their souls.

— Do priests ever join voyages, or do they only meet seafarers on land?
Some cruise ships have chaplains on board. However, in the merchant fleet, ships typically do not have priests as part of their crew. Merchant vessels operate with small crews, averaging 25 members, each with a specific role.

Adapting to Ministry Challenges

— How has the ministry at sea changed during the war?
The war marked a turning point. Nearly 100 ships, many with foreign crews, were trapped in Ukrainian ports. Our usual activities became impossible. We collaborated with state and non-governmental military teams to assist and later evacuate crews from blocked ships.

Initially, we helped meet basic needs, then facilitated evacuations, and later launched two projects: one offering psychological support to seafarers and their families, and another distributing financial aid through international organizations.

Our ministry has resumed in the port of Odessa, with plans to expand to Pivdennyi and Chornomorsk next year.

Facing Challenges Together

— What would you wish for Ukrainians this Christmas?
Christmas brought hope into the world. In these times of overwhelming hopelessness, I wish everyone to look closely at Christ, who brought hope against all odds. May we learn to hope without hope, for Christ came to us and for us, and He is our hope.

Translation of article made available with permission of UGCC.

The post “Christ Came to Us and for Us, and He Is Our Hope,”— Father Oleksandr Smerechynskyi on Serving Seafarers appeared first on NAMMA.

Saint Luke tells us that after the angels left them, the shepherds went in haste and found Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus in the manger. They told them what the angel had said: “For today in the city of David, a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.” And they rejoiced, glorifying and praising God. Today, as we celebrate the coming of Our Savior as a poor and helpless baby, may we run in haste, rejoicing as we serve Him in those we serve in our ports.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year.

Peace,
Paul

Deacon Paul Rosenblum

President, NAMMA
Stella Maris Ministry Port Minister
Regional Coordinator for North America and the Caribbean

“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did to one of these least brothers of mine, you did to me.”
Matthew 25:40

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Jennifer Stewart, Executive Director of Seafarers’ House, shared her excitement with The MARE Report:
“This past summer, a dear friend of our agency approached us about being featured in the Fort Lauderdale Monopoly edition. This friend, a long-time supporter, has consistently championed our mission and even helped organize the USS Fort Lauderdale crew to volunteer for our Shoebox Christmas initiative. Being selected as one of three nonprofits on the game board is an incredible honor.”

In this special edition of Monopoly, traditional railroads are replaced with Fort Lauderdale’s iconic water features, such as the Water Taxi, whose President and CEO, Bill Walker, also serves on the Seafarers’ House board. Jennifer noted, “This edition highlights not just Fort Lauderdale’s charm but also our organization’s contribution to the city’s culture.”

For Seafarers’ House, this opportunity is more than a nod to its presence; it’s a testament to how nonprofit organizations can enhance their visibility by engaging with broader community initiatives. Monopoly games purchased directly from Seafarers’ House also contribute to its mission, adding a layer of support for the maritime workers who rely on its services.

This inclusion demonstrates a best practice for seafarers’ centers: leveraging partnerships and creative opportunities to increase visibility. By aligning with a widely recognized project like Monopoly, Seafarers’ House expands its reach while promoting its vital role in supporting seafarers.

Seafarers’ House invites residents and visitors to purchase their game at the center, where proceeds will directly benefit their mission. As Jennifer Stewart put it, “Let’s make a difference together!”

For more information or to purchase a game, visit Seafarers’ House or call 954-734-1580.

Photos: Seafarers’ House Facebook

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The highlight of the year was undoubtedly the NAMMA Conference held in Newark, NJ, from September 24-26. This gathering brought together NAMMA members, international partners, and inspiring speakers. The conference not only celebrated maritime safety, highlighted by the display of a Titanic life vest, but also provided a platform for long-standing and emerging leaders to share their insights. This event was a testament to the enduring spirit and collaboration within the NAMMA community.

NAMMA’s Intern Program continued to thrive, with the summer of 2024 marking another successful year. Thanks to the ITF Seafarers Trust, this program has supported 72 interns since 2016. These young professionals bring fresh energy and perspectives to maritime ministry, and many continue their work in the field long after their internships. Their contributions enrich NAMMA and the wider community.

A leap into technology saw NAMMA introduce a chatbot on its website. Designed to provide reliable answers and resources, the chatbot represents a step forward in engaging with a digital audience. It’s a work in progress but promises to enhance NAMMA’s outreach and accessibility.

The celebration of members is at the heart of NAMMA’s mission. This year, distinguished service awards were presented at both the NAMMA Conference and the Houston Training in February. These awards recognize the extraordinary dedication of individuals who serve seafarers with compassion and perseverance. Hearing their stories was a highlight of these events, offering a glimpse into the transformative impact of maritime ministry.

The MARE Report, NAMMA’s flagship publication, shone brightly in 2024. With contributions from talented writers like Susan Huppert and audio recordings by Don Sheetz, the print magazine and news website captured the year’s achievements and shared best practices across the network.

Training remained a cornerstone of NAMMA’s work, with February’s Houston Training drawing participants from diverse nations. This, combined with online courses such as MareTraining and the Ship Welfare Visitor course, exemplifies NAMMA’s commitment to equipping members with the skills and knowledge needed for effective ministry.

Strategic planning played a pivotal role in NAMMA’s activities this year. A notable example was the work in Sept-Îles, QC, where NAMMA helped encourage a local ministry. These planning sessions, coupled with best practice sharing, support NAMMA members in navigating challenges and charting new paths.

The Canadian National Seafarers’ Welfare Board achieved a milestone in November with the presentation of the Elizabeth Bertrand Humble Servant Award to Patricia “Patty” Sarazen of Montreal’s Ministry to Seafarers. This event was a beautiful celebration of Patty’s remarkable contributions to seafarers’ welfare.

International collaboration flourished through NAMMA’s partnership with the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA). These connections allowed NAMMA to share best practices and learn from global peers, fostering a spirit of unity and shared purpose.

Finally, NAMMA represented industry best practices at various conferences, including CMAC in Canada, and CMA Shipping and NAMEPA in the U.S. These gatherings provided opportunities to engage with the maritime industry and advocate for the welfare of seafarers.

Beyond these top ten, 2024 also saw a creative burst of media activity, with video tours of seafarers’ centers and vibrant photos capturing NAMMA’s work. In November we passed 10,000 photos uploaded to the photo website since we began a decade ago. It’s been a year of innovation, collaboration, and heartfelt service, setting a strong foundation for 2025.

The post NAMMA’s Top Ten of 2024: Celebrating a Year of Maritime Ministry appeared first on NAMMA.

Dr. Jason Zuidema of the International Christian Maritime Association recently interviewed Marc Evans, the Chief Executive of The Fishermen’s Mission since March 2022, to discuss the organization’s enduring legacy and the critical support it provides to fishing communities across the British Isles.

When asked to explain what the Fishermen’s Mission is, Marc Evans began by sharing its remarkable history. “So the Fishermen’s Mission is an ecumenical Christian charity that was founded in 1881 when our founder, Ebenezer Mather, witnessed 189 fishermen perishing in the waters close to safety off the coast of Eyemouth in Southeast Scotland,” Marc explained. “He very quickly founded the National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen and then started bringing together hospital ships to provide healthcare and medical support to beleaguered communities around the coastline at the time, using the mantra of ‘Preach the Word and heal the sick.’” More than a century later, the Mission continues to operate under that guiding principle, with a staff of about 70 people providing a range of services across England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. “I call it the ‘Fish Mission Menu,’ which includes pastoral and spiritual support, financial assistance, emergency aid, and much more,” Marc said. He added that the Mission has increasingly focused on healthcare, bringing services directly to the quayside. “We’ve almost returned to our roots, offering healthy lifestyle advice, physical health and well-being support, dental checkups, and even mental health conversations,” he said. The Mission’s reach extends not only to active and retired fishermen but also to their families. “Anyone who has fished professionally for even one day of their life is eligible,” Marc said. “And we extend that support to partners and dependents. From the moment they become eligible to the moment they pass on, we’re here for them.”

When asked why fishermen, in particular, need a mission, Marc highlighted the unique challenges they face. “If you start historically, it dates back to the fact that they formed very tight-knit communities,” Marc explained. “A fishing village existed solely to support the industry, much like mining or farming towns.” Over time, however, services in these coastal areas—healthcare, banking, and postal services—have increasingly centralized, moving further away. The nature of fishing itself compounds the issue. “They don’t work 9-to-5. They’re out early, back late, and often work weekends,” Marc said. “We bridge that gap, sometimes by acting as intermediaries with service providers or even by physically bringing those services to the quayside.” Accessibility, he emphasized, is at the heart of the Mission’s work. “It’s all about breaking down barriers to what everybody else takes for granted, but they don’t and can’t.”

Describing a typical day for a Mission staff member, Marc acknowledged that no two days are ever the same. “A typical day is probably very untypical,” he said with a smile. “One day, it could involve chatting with fishermen on the quayside who are checking nets, and making sure they know we’re there if they need us. Another day, we might be hosting an event for fishermen and their families.” Emergencies at sea can call staff into action at a moment’s notice. “We might learn that a fishing vessel has gotten into difficulty and fishermen have been brought back to the quayside,” Marc said. “We’re there to escort them to a medical center or help however we can.” Despite the unpredictability, the Mission’s work is always guided by the needs of the individuals they serve. “At the end of the day, our work is about responding to people,” Marc said. “You can plan a week out, but that plan will never survive the first fisherman who knocks on the door and says, ‘Can you help me today?’”

Marc also spoke about the ecumenical and Christian foundation of the Fishermen’s Mission, which he described as fundamental to its identity. “Historically, there’s always been a strong connection between seafarers and the church,” he explained. “As a predominantly Christian nation, we align with various denominations—Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, Anglicans—all of whom have a presence in different ports.” The ecumenical nature of the Mission allows it to serve a broad community while drawing on shared values. “We find the golden thread that runs through all of these beliefs and knit it into an organization that’s built on something much deeper than boardroom values,” Marc said. He emphasized that the Mission takes its gospel-inspired mandate seriously. “We go back to that phrase of ‘Preach the Word and heal the sick.’ The two go hand in hand.”

Reflecting on his leadership of the Mission, Marc shared the guiding principle that shapes his approach: “Christianity with sleeves rolled up.” He explained, “As Chief Executive, I must ensure there’s a structure flowing all the way down to the grassroots but never be so far removed that I lose touch with what any member of my staff is doing.” Consistency across the UK is also key, with Marc highlighting the importance of avoiding a “postcode lottery.” “Whether you’re in Scotland, Wales, or anywhere else, the services we provide should be the same,” he said. “What changes is the individual who walks through the door.” At its core, the Fishermen’s Mission exists to serve others. “We’re not a self-serving organization,” Marc said. “We’re here to serve the people who come to us for assistance. That’s what makes the Mission what it is.”

The Fishermen’s Mission continues to honor its 143-year legacy, providing indispensable support to one of the world’s most challenging and overlooked professions. As Marc concluded, “At the end of the day, we’re here to serve.”

Learn more about The Fishermen’s Mission here.

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The MARE Report had an opportunity to speak with Commodore Jim Scorer is Secretary-General of the International Federation of Shipmasters’ Associations (IFSMA) on the margins of a recent IMO-ILO joint meeting in Geneva on the fair treatment of seafarers accused of crimes.

The MARE Report:
Thank you for being willing to speak with us. In The MARE Report, we like to share best practices and perspectives on seafarers’ welfare from different angles. So much of seafarers’ welfare, of what we do, is not just in our own little bubble, but it’s with other partners, learning from other people. Can you tell us about IFSMA? What does the acronym mean? And what do you do? What do you try to do for your members?

Cdre. Jim Scorer:
Yes, thank you. We are the International Federation of Ship Master Associations (IFSMA). Our sole purpose is to represent ship masters around the world on the international stage, primarily at the IMO. And so, we’re all the time looking at current legislation, future legislation coming in, and how we can try and get it changed for the better. And I look after seafarers, ship masters, because actually, I care passionately about them, and I hate the way in which people are exploited. So that’s a rough thing, and that’s why, IFSMA was set up all those years ago because of exploitation, the position of responsibility that ship masters are in. We are the only organization that looks primarily after ship masters and how to try and help them through the quagmire of the international law that is out there.

The MARE Report:
We’ve heard it said that in many places, going to the top, being the master of the ship is a very lonely place to be. Do you have any thoughts on that? What does it mean?

Cdre. Jim Scorer:
You would like to think that all masters and all seafarers fight to get to the top because they want to run their ships, but they want to look after their people. And it doesn’t necessarily work like that. And I think that years ago, when you look back before, there were what I would call the increased time pressures, where you had lots of people on board, there was always time, and therefore there was a different relationship. I think it might have been harder in some ways, and the rules more strict, but there was always that sort of esprit de corps, whether it was within a ship or within a company, because you were employed by a company. And I think now the problem is, really, you don’t know who you’re being employed by, because unless you are one of the big companies who still have their own hiring organization and keep them in the family, you go through an agency, and you’re doing a job for a trip or two. And then you can move on. And there is, there lacks this loyalty bit. But I think you, from my perspective, and the way I’ve always felt about it, is that you have a responsibility being an officer on the ship at any rank, and you should be looking after your people. You should be caring for them, and they should feel included in what you do, because what we don’t want to do is for them to be isolated. And I think this is how things have changed over the years now with internet and this instant communication. People go on watch, do their watch, and they go off watch, they’ll rush in to have something to eat, possibly or possibly not, and then go into their cabins and shut themselves away. And there is this isolation. So I’m very keen that as an officer, and particularly as a captain, that you get around the ship, and yes, you have responsibilities, you have paperwork, you have watch keeping to do, but that’s a small part of the job. The main part for me is to be seen around, to be with your people and to understand them, because you need to be able to see when things are not right in our world.

The MARE Report:
What are two or three of the key problems that captains are facing? How is your association trying to help them?

Cdre. Jim Scorer:
It changes in different sectors. If you’re deep sea, it is not as bad as if you’re doing short sea. Short sea shipping, the type where the time pressures are very big. Long haul deep sea, there’s a bit more boredom, but there are always things to do.

The biggest concern I have, and the thing that I spend most of my time doing, is, how can you get the pressure off the ship master from the owners, because the pressure is on the ship all the time, and it’s… it’s the loyalty issue, and it’s difficult to say, isn’t it, but actually the fundamental corruptness of a lot of ship owners and shipping and the way in which it is done. I am pushing very strongly, and I talk with ITF all the time about, how can we get the working hours down? That’s my big concern. The criminalization and working hours and the recording of those working hours in an honest fashion, those are my two big, really big things.

The MARE Report:
In our seafarers’ welfare groups, one of the things we most often provide is shore leave for crews. How do masters view this, and why is this important for them?

Cdre. Jim Scorer:
There is a big problem. If you talk to the senior masters now who are leaving and retiring, they remember quite very fondly of their days when they would go into a harbor, offload. They would have two or three days, shore leave, pottering around, taking in the culture, seeing things. And it was an exciting part of being a seafarer. Then now, there’s no time. Time is money, as far as the ship owner is concerned. So, you’re in, you offload, you load, you’re gone. There is no time unless you’ve broken down. But even if you’re broken down, there is so much to do. In a lot of places, we can’t get access to shore leave. I think that’s actually something where what you do, is so important. And you go across all seafarers, and you don’t worry about religion or anything else, it is about being there for them and providing that soundboard, that place that is off the ship, where they can actually just go and talk to somebody, and to be normal, that isn’t necessarily another crew member.

The MARE Report:
Thank you very much.

The post Navigating Challenges: Insights from Commodore Jim Scorer on the Welfare of Shipmasters appeared first on NAMMA.

For half a century, the Foyer des Marins has stood as a beacon of welcome for seafarers whose ships dock in the Baie de Sept-Îles. Its mission is rooted in hospitality, offering a sense of belonging to the men and women working in one of the world’s most challenging and isolating industries. Services include access to the internet, recreational activities like billiards, and free seasonal clothing to meet seafarers’ practical needs. In addition, seafarers can purchase snacks and essential items while enjoying the warmth and camaraderie of conversations with volunteers who exemplify the Foyer’s spirit of care.

The story of the Foyer began with a vision from Father Charles Beaudet, who, along with a team of eight dedicated volunteers, founded the organization on March 1974. From its inception, the Foyer has been driven by community support and volunteerism. Over time, a succession of board members and presidents has carried the torch, ensuring that the mission adapts through changing times. Among them, the current president, Lucie Lessard, has played a crucial role, steering the organization through the challenges of recent years, particularly before and after the global COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the Foyer’s most cherished traditions is its annual “Noël des marins” celebration. This event, held every year for at least 15 years, embodies the organization’s mission of care and celebration. Between December 23 and January 3, volunteers distribute almost 100 gifts to seafarers whose ships remain docked in the port, whether at the Pointe-aux-Basques or Quai de la Relance terminals. These simple yet heartfelt gestures bring joy to those far from their families during the holidays and reinforce the Foyer’s role as a home away from home for seafarers.

The strategic planning session, known as a “lac à l’épaule” in Quebec, was a comprehensive effort to reaffirm the Foyer’s vision and address the challenges it faces as it enters its sixth decade. The meeting was facilitated by Dr. Jason Zuidema, Executive Director of the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA), whose expertise provided both a broader perspective and actionable insights. Discussions opened with a review of the Foyer’s mission statement, focusing on its resonance with the organization’s current work. Central themes emerged, such as the importance of “bien-être des marins” (the well-being of seafarers) and “accueil” (welcome), emphasizing that hospitality goes beyond physical spaces to include the human connections forged by the volunteers and staff.

The session also tackled critical organizational challenges, such as volunteer recruitment, governance, and funding. With the Foyer relying heavily on volunteers, ensuring a steady influx of committed individuals is vital for sustaining its operations. Similarly, a shift in the focus of the board from operational tasks to governance was identified as a key priority, allowing for more efficient management of resources and strategic initiatives. Funding, while bolstered by voluntary levies from ships, requires diversification.

Visibility emerged as another focal point during the session. Participants recognized the need for a stronger online presence to raise awareness about the Foyer’s mission and attract supporters and volunteers. Establishing an appropriate digital footprint would enable the organization to share its story more broadly and engage with a next generation, ensuring the mission remains vibrant and relevant.

President Lucie Lessard also shared her reflections on the Foyer’s history and its connections with similar organizations across Quebec, including those in Trois-Rivières, Montreal, and Quebec City. Her observations highlighted the importance of collaboration and learning from others to refine the Foyer’s practices and strengthen its impact.

The strategic planning session concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm. Attendees left with a clearer vision of the steps needed to adapt the Foyer’s mission for the future while preserving the values and traditions that have sustained it for 50 years. This milestone is not just a celebration of the past but a call to action for the future—a commitment to serve seafarers with the same care, compassion, and excellence that have defined the Foyer des Marins since its founding.

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Debbie Murray, Chair of the CNSWB, expressed her congratulations, saying, “As Chair of the Canadian National Seafarers’ Welfare Board, I am thrilled to recognize Patty Sarazen with the first Elisabeth Bertrand Humble Servant Award. This award honors the legacy of Elisabeth, who put her heart and energy into supporting seafarers through collaboration and a problem-solving spirit. Patty’s dedication to seafarers, especially during challenging times, truly reflects the qualities that Elisabeth stood for.”

The award was presented during the CNSWB meeting, held alongside the Canadian Maritime Advisory Council in Ottawa. Sarazen’s work with the Ministry to Seafarers in Montreal, in partnership with Mariner’s House and Stella Maris, has made a remarkable difference to the seafarers who rely on these services.

Prior to the the presentation of the award, the board read the full nomination forPatricia (Patty) Sarazen, Administrator, Ministry to Seafarers, Montreal:

“Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, several Ukrainian seafarers requesting asylum landed in Montreal and were fortunate enough to meet Patty at the seafarers’ centre. She immediately became involved in their lives and took responsibility for helping them reunite with their families, find homes, furniture, and friends in Quebec, as well as connecting with each other and the Montreal community.

Patty has assisted these seafarers with government paperwork in English and French, enabling them to register on a fast track with Transport Canada and work as seafarers in Canada. Whatever event we hold, whether it be a fundraising bicycle ride or a Christmas party, Patty ensures these men and their families are invited and welcomed.

When the COVID-19 vaccine became available, Patty negotiated with vaccination clinics to provide vaccines for all seafarers in Montreal, and, thanks largely to her efforts, over 2,000 seafarers were vaccinated. This was a challenging task, as the brand of previous vaccinations had to be matched with what was available here. She ensured that when chaplains and staff brought seafarers for vaccinations, the process was seamless, and she even followed up for seafarers who had not received their QR codes or proof of vaccination months later. At one point, Patty persuaded a team of nurses to come to the port and set up a vaccination center at a terminal.

Patty also takes responsibility for the contents of every Christmas parcel donated to seafarers—between 1,400 and 1,600 each year. She mobilizes supporters to create ‘ditty bags,’ which are sewn from spare material and painted by youth from schools, community groups, and churches whom Patty hosts and encourages to contribute. Patty also organizes special events, including wellness and games evenings, to bring joy to seafarers.

Patty is truly a humble servant, extending sympathy, empathy, and kindness to all. She is a cherished friend to the world’s seafarers, lightening their burdens and lifting their spirits.”

About the CNSWB:
The Canadian National Seafarers’ Welfare Board is a collaborative board of shipowners, seafarers’ welfare and labor representatives, port officials, and government representatives. The Board’s formation aligns with the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC 2006), to advise the Government of Canada on seafarers’ welfare and improve welfare facilities and access to services across Canada.

Media Contact and Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/canadian-national-seafarers-welfare-board-28aa24315

https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/marine-safety/canadian-national-seafarers-welfare-board

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