Seafarers honoured at special Sunday service

THE stressful and lonely lives of seamen separated from their homes and families for large parts of each year were the focus of a special ‘Sea Sunday’ service held at the Seafarers Mission in Richards Bay on Sunday.

Part of an international commemoration, the large group that attended included a number of sailors from vessels in port on the day.

Apart from Seafarers Mission chaplains and a number of local church ministers, the service also included members of Sea Rescue Station 19 and Sea Scouts.

Volunteers, supporters and congregants were welcomed by Richards Bay Seafarers Chairman, Gert Petersen after a flag procession entry.

The chapel service was then led by Chaplain Mark Classen, honouring seafarers and celebrating ‘those men and women who risk their lives at sea to bring us 90% of what we use every day’.

‘The well being of seafarers is at the heart of everything we do.

‘We offer practical, emotional and spiritual support to seafarers through ship visits, drop-in centres and a range of welfare and emergency support services.

‘We offer bibles, Christian literature, a listening ear and prayers,’ said Classen.

‘Piracy, shipwreck, abandonment and separation from loved ones are just a few of the problems merchant seafarers face.

‘In an emergency, we are often the only help on offer. No matter what problem a seafarer is facing, they know they can turn to the local Missions for help, advice and support.

‘Therefore, may this bidding encourage us all to continually pray for our special seafaring friends, as well as to pray for those who serve them on a daily basis. ‘