Over the past few weeks Jae has encountered many different situations which the seafarers are facing. His latest updates offer a window into their world— where he has come alongside seafarers in moments of heartbreak and financial stress, as well as touching times of encouragement and celebration.

In all the different circumstances there is a recurring theme very evident in how much the seafarers and port workers value the friendship and care which they receive from the SCFS Chaplains and volunteer Ship Visitors like John.

Read on for some of Jae's recollections...

Messroom Praise: Hearing music from the messroom, a Greek superintendent was drawn in and found us in the middle of a worship service. When I told him that we were worshipping God, he expressed his thanks, while the Filipino captain invited me back for the following Monday, noting how much the crew appreciates the spiritual and practical support. By the end of the visit, 16 Bibles had been distributed.

Answered Prayers: A security staff member shared an update on his 3-year-old granddaughter, whom I had prayed for, is out of the hospital and ready to go back to preschool. He gave me a hug of thanks.  Praise the Lord for His goodness to him and his granddaughter. 

Beach Baptisms: What a joy when two Filipino crew members rom one of the weekly Bible studies decided to take the step of baptism to demonstrate their commitment to Christ. One of them, who found faith through a fellow seafarer last year, is eager to lead his future family in the faith. Though the morning started at a freezing -1°C, the Lord was gracious and we had a beautiful window of weather at noon—11°C with bright sun and no wind—for our time at Sandymount beach.

The Paper Cross: Another crew member enjoyed the Gospel message, especially the paper cross illustration. He was eager to learn how to do the paper cross illustration, so he could share the visual story with his family when he returns home.

An Easter Reflection: On a ship where weekly Bible study is held, the captain spent an hour discussing the meaning of Easter and the reason we celebrate Jesus. He always shows genuine interest in our work and Christian truth.

Scripture Studies: During a regular study on a container ship, I met a new crew member who joined the Bible study for the first time, "I want to listen more about the Bible passage from Philippians 2:12-18." He was encouraged and blessed by the Word of God. The captain also joined it for a while and thanked us for the encourgement these sessions have on his crew.

A Father’s Joy: A second officer, thrilled to be finally heading home, thanked me for the baby clothes provided for his young daughter.

Reunited After Seven Years: It was a heartwarming surprise to see two Filipino crew members I hadn't met since they were on a different ship seven years ago. They greeted me with big hugs and were fully expecting us to lead a Bible study right then and there!

Economic Burdens: Many seafarers face intense financial pressure. One man was moved to tears as he described having to pawn his wedding ring and gold necklace to provide for his family. He thanked us for prayers for him and his family. Another spoke of the Filipino culture of generosity to financially support not just the immediate household, but friends and neighbours as well. A messman shared that his father passed away last autumn, leaving him as the sole provider for his mother and two teenage brothers.

A Shift in Atmosphere: On a ship where I had led a weekly Bible study for almost 12 years, I have experienced a totally different atmosphere. It has changed drastically since the ship was sold and wages were cut by two-thirds and most of the crew have left the ship. The once-cheerful crew has been replaced by men under great financial strain and caught up in the burdens of life. I read the Bible and prayed with a seafarer, he started to cry for comfort and wisdom to endure this difficult time.

Stranded by Conflict: The ongoing crisis in the Middle East has left many sailors in limbo. One captain shared his anxiety for 11 of his crew members who were supposed to fly home from Dublin last Sunday but are now stuck without flights.

Another crew member was grateful to receive a children's Bible for his sister and a Bible and hat for his girlfriend. He hopes to return home by the end of April, but like many others, he is still waiting for confirmation on travel.

The Bread of Life: More than half crew of the ship joined a weekly Bible study and enjoyed the Bread of Life, even though some of them are not Christians. Please pray that they will enjoy Jesus and His teachings for life on earth and in heaven. 

"Can you pray for me?": I spent an hour talking with a man I assumed was a 2nd officer because of his youthful appearance. I was surprised to learn he was the Russian captain! Before he left, he asked, "Can you pray for me?" as he remembered we prayed together a few years ago.