The United States National Maritime Day Observance on May 22 took place at the U.S. Department of Transportation, where the theme of the year—“Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance”—highlighted a renewed commitment to domestic shipbuilding, resilient supply chains, and investment in the U.S. maritime workforce. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy addressed the audience alongside other leaders from U.S. Transportation Command, the Interlake Steamship Company, and the Maritime Administration. The event emphasized a robust vision for the future of the American maritime sector.

During the ceremony Bishop Brendan J. Cahill, Bishop of Victoria, Texas and bishop promoter of Stella Maris to the US Bishop’s Conference, offered an ecumenical prayer titled The Wonder of the Sea. Inviting all those present to pray in their own tradition and understanding of God, Bishop Cahill’s invocation celebrated the majesty of creation and the sacredness of seafaring labor. His words included the powerful lines: “I look at the heavens made by your hands, at the moon and stars you set in place. Oh, what are we that you should spare a thought for us?” and “May we who plant our feet on earth’s dry ground… not forget those whose destiny is to work on the implacable sea.” The prayer captured the awe and humility felt in the presence of the vast ocean and those who navigate it.

That afternoon, Deacon Rosenblum attended NAMEPA’s Safety at Sea Seminar and the AMVER Awards ceremony. These events brought together industry professionals, government leaders, and advocates committed to maritime safety, environmental protection, and seafarer welfare. Topics ranged from cybersecurity and decarbonization to workforce development and technological innovation. One persistent theme, however, was the challenge of attracting a new generation of Americans to careers at sea, despite efforts to rebuild national maritime capacity.

Deacon Rosenblum delivered a presentation on seafarers’ welfare in which he presented findings from the most recent Seafarer Happiness Index. Rather than framing the conversation solely through his own observations, he shared direct excerpts from seafarers around the world—giving voice to their daily realities, struggles, and hopes. He noted that while some progress had been made, particularly in shipboard connectivity, many of the same concerns he had heard throughout his 25 years in ministry remained unchanged. Wages have not kept pace, and shore leave continues to be restricted. His message was clear: the maritime industry together must take greater responsibility for improving seafarers’ conditions. “There is no business without seafarers,” he said, emphasizing that their well-being is not optional but essential.

Following the seminar, the AMVER Awards celebrated the exceptional commitment of commercial ships and their crews who participate in life-saving efforts at sea. This program, jointly supported by the U.S. Coast Guard and maritime industry, remains a vital expression of solidarity and responsibility. Deacon Rosenblum praised its value as a sign of shared commitment to safety and humanitarian response.

That evening, Deacon Rosenblum took part in NAMEPA’s board meeting, held at the headquarters of the American Bureau of Shipping. NAMMA has held a seat on the NAMEPA board since the organization’s founding in 2007. While acknowledging challenges in membership retention and shifting political dynamics, he noted that the organization’s educational and workforce development programs remain strong.

The visit culminated on Saturday, May 24, with the Annual Maritime Day Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Celebrated at the Crypt Church, the Mass honored seafarers who have lost their lives and those who continue to serve at sea. Bishop Cahill presided, joined by Bishop Frank Schuster and Bishop Jerome Feudjio of Saint Thomas. Among those in attendance were maritime chaplains, deacons, and members of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Refugees, including Sr. Joanna Okereke.

At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Cahill acknowledged those who had contributed to the work of Stella Maris, offering thanks to in coming Bishop Promoter, Bishop Schuster, Sr. Joanna, Deacon Rosenblum, and Dr. Jason Zuidema of NAMMA for their collaborative efforts. As a sign of appreciation, Bishop Cahill received a chasuble featuring the image of Our Lady Stella Maris from the USCCB, along with a special award of thanks from AOS-USA.

Following the Mass, Deacon Rosenblum joined others for a lunch with the new bishop promoter, Bishop Schuster, who expressed enthusiasm for his new role and a clear understanding of the financial and structural needs of Stella Maris. Deacon Rosenblum was encouraged by the bishop’s energy and his desire to advocate for stronger institutional support from the USCCB.

Reflecting on the week, Deacon Rosenblum emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between Stella Maris, NAMEPA, and NAMMA. The partnerships remain strong, and there is growing awareness of the value of maritime ministry. At the same time, he noted a renewed enthusiasm surrounding America’s efforts to strengthen its maritime presence and workforce. These efforts, while focused on national goals, provide an opportunity to reaffirm the global nature of the maritime industry and the essential role of seafarers from all nations. For Deacon Rosenblum, it is vital to continue celebrating international cooperation and mutual respect, ensuring that all seafarers—regardless of nationality—remain at the heart of maritime advocacy.

For a video of the National Maritime Day Observance see USDOT Youtube.

A statement from the USCCB on National Maritime Day.

Photos: NAMEPA Facebook and USDOT Youtube.

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On April 2, 2025, more than 25 maritime ministry leaders from across the US East Coast gathered in Stamford, Connecticut, for the North-East US regional meeting of the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA). Held in the Aspen Room of the Hilton Stamford Hotel, the gathering took place alongside the bustling CMA Shipping Conference, offering participants a unique opportunity to access the conference’s exhibitor area and connect with the broader maritime industry. This crossover gave seafarers’ chaplains and mission leaders a rare and valuable window into the commercial world they serve alongside.

The morning began with a series of presentations designed to frame the day’s conversations. Dr. Jason Zuidema of NAMMA opened the first session with reflections on the instability that continues to characterize the global maritime landscape. His remarks emphasized the importance of building and maintaining infrastructure—both physical and relational—to help maritime ministries remain resilient in changing times. Dr. Christopher Graham followed with an update on financing welfare work in U.S. ports. He focused particularly on strategies involving port levies and the increasingly vital role of package delivery in seafarers’ welfare services. Ben Bailey of The Mission to Seafarers capped off the first session with an engaging presentation on the Ship Visitor app, encouraging NAMMA members to sign up and use this powerful tool for organizing and tracking ship visits.

After a break that allowed participants to visit the CMA exhibitor floor—where booths showcased everything from engine parts to propeller-cleaning systems—participants reconvened for a round-table session. Representatives from Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, and South Carolina each offered short updates on their mission work. In these updates, several common themes emerged: challenges in accessing terminals, the increasing complexities of immigration policy enforcement, and the renewal of staff and volunteers. Yet despite these hurdles, there was a strong sense of hope and momentum. Many ministries reported increased ship visits and new partnerships, as well as creative strategies for engaging churches and volunteers in their local contexts.

One particular strength of the day was the spirit of mutual encouragement. Ministries shared both frustrations and successes, from dealing with port authority restrictions to celebrating birthdays with long-stuck crews, like those on the MV Dali in Baltimore. Others highlighted efforts to grow relationships with shipping agents and customs officials, noting that collaboration is key to navigating the unpredictable waters of maritime ministry.

The event concluded with a communal lunch and more time to explore the CMA exhibitor area. Participants walked away with a renewed sense of connection—to each other, to the maritime world beyond their port, and to the global mission of caring for seafarers. As several attendees commented, gatherings like this are essential in reminding mission workers that they are not alone—and that even in instability, there is strength in shared purpose.

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