Richards Bay chaplaincy supports 40 vessels amid global shipping challenges

Richards Bay’s Mission to Seafarers supported 40 vessels in August, offering spiritual care, resources and assistance to crews facing challenges.

3 minutes ago

Dave Savides 2 minutes read

THE Richards Bay Mission to Seafarers (MtS) chaplaincy team boarded 40 vessels in the Port of Richards Bay in August, where they ministered to officers and crews and provided physical resources to complement the spiritual support.

One on-board church service was conducted and a total of 346 resources were distributed: 31 Bibles, 129 Christian materials, 52 newspapers and 134 sundry items.

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The digital chaplaincy was exceptionally busy, with 60 messages from various seafarers and/or vessels seeking information, guidance or assistance.

Another satisfied seafarer, this time from the MV Yasa Pluto at berth 607, who was given a Bible

MtS prayers and advice were solicited in four justice matters, involving abandoned vessels and poorly treated crews.

While crews were subsequently repatriated, this was at times with unpaid or underpaid salaries, and they were grateful for support from afar.

MtS Chaplain Mark Classen and his wife Eva attended a seminar presented to the business community by Shepstone & Wylie Attorneys, which covered unanticipated consequences in trade during times of geopolitical uncertainty when, for example, shipments can become far more expensive than anticipated.

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Escalating conflict in the Middle East, disruptions to global shipping lanes, war-risk surcharges, rerouting costs, delays, and the temporary closure or restriction of strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz have demonstrated how quickly the economics of an international scale can change.

Obviously, aside from the human tragedy during conflicts, the crew of vessels may also find themselves targeted during the conflict, or trapped on ships that are forced to stand by or to deviate taking routes longer than anticipated.

“We gained a great amount of knowledge from the seminar, which can also be useful in our ministry or when dealing with international seafaring matters,” said Chaplain Mark.

Eva was invited to a WOMESA function organised by the national Department of Transport.
She came away with a new network of maritime professionals and inspired by the wonderful work by women in the industry.

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