From locations all around the world, The Mission to Seafarers’ Port Chaplains share how they have been addressing the myriad of dangers faced by seafarers in June 2024 and the importance of the support provided in the aftermath.
Seafarers face numerous dangers and challenges while navigating the world’s oceans, from pirate attacks to serious accidents and mental health crises. The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) is committed to offering support and advocacy for maritime professionals enduring these hardships and has been deeply engaged in addressing a range of challenging situations. Based in over 200 ports across 50 different countries, our teams working tirelessly to provide crucial aid and comfort to those in need. Here’s a look at recent incidents, underscoring the critical need for robust support systems for seafarers.
Baltimore – The Aftermath of the Bridge Collapse
The Port of Baltimore witnessed a catastrophic event in March 2024 when the container ship Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing its collapse. The accident resulted in the tragic loss of six workers’ lives and left eight vessels, including the Dali, stranded. Despite the crew of the Dali escaping physical injury, the incident led to significant disruption and considerable stress.
Rev. Joshua Messick, MtS chaplain in Baltimore, has been actively supporting the crew of the Dali. Access to the crew has been tightly controlled, and shore leave has been denied, compounding their isolation. The Mission has provided essential supplies, new phones, and care packages thanks to union support, but advocacy for fair treatment and eventual release continues. The crew faces an uncertain future, with some potentially facing legal repercussions and extended stays in Baltimore. This ongoing situation highlights the precarious nature of seafaring and the critical role of support services in ensuring their well-being.
Tuticorin – A Family’s Desperate Search
In Tuticorin, India, the Mission faced a grave situation involving the disappearance of a seafarer working on a container vessel. After the seafarer was reported missing in early March, the Mission, led by Rev. Stephen Thanapaul, has been providing emotional support and guidance to the family. Despite extensive search efforts by the company and the Coast Guard, the seafarer’s fate remains unknown, reflecting the serious risks associated with maritime employment. By liaising with the company and offering direct support, we aim to alleviate some of the distress faced by the family time, emphasising the importance of pastoral care in times of crisis.
Richards Bay – The Impact of Piracy
In Richards Bay, South Africa, a vessel was attacked by Somali pirates, an alarming reminder of the dangers of piracy. Fortunately, the crew’s quick action in securing themselves in the ship’s citadel and the timely rescue by the Indian Navy prevented any physical harm. However, the psychological toll on the crew was significant.
Our chaplains, Eva and Mark Classen, provided vital counselling and support to help the crew process their traumatic experience who were deeply appreciative of the care packages, and materials provided. The attack demonstrates the ongoing need for mental health support for seafarers exposed to such threats.
Houston – A Devastating Ship Fire
A devastating fire on a container ship in Houston, US, in January 2024, which resulted in two fatalities and one serious injury, was a severe shock to the maritime community. Rev. Thomas Morrow’s immediate response included facilitating emergency care, providing comfort to the affected crew, delivering essential items, and facilitating their basic needs in the aftermath of the tragedy. The Mission’s compassionate support extended to organising prayer sessions and emotional assistance, helping the crew through their grief.
The ongoing care for the surviving seafarer, who remains in recovery, exemplifies the Mission’s dedication to seafarers in distress. The incident not only highlights the extreme risks associated with maritime work but also underscores the importance of having a support network that can respond swiftly to such emergencies.
Busan – The Tragic Loss of a Cadet
In Busan, Korea, the suicide of a young cadet on board a vessel in April 2024 has highlighted the severe mental health challenges faced by seafarers. Rev. Monica Park facilitated crucial support for the cadet’s grieving family, including emotional care and logistical assistance as they navigated their loss. This tragic event underscores the urgent need for mental health support and the Mission’s role in providing a lifeline to those in emotional turmoil.
In addition to providing support in the aftermath of incidents like this, the Mission to Seafarers is actively working to prevent suicide in the maritime industry. Our SafeTALK ‘Marine’ programme is an essential component of these efforts. This initiative equips seafarers with vital skills, empowering them to recognise signs of suicidal thoughts and engage in meaningful conversations to connect at-risk individuals with life-saving resources, thus fostering a safer and more supportive maritime community.
Ensuring Continuous Care
The diverse incidents reported by our teams underscore the many dangers and emotional challenges faced by seafarers worldwide. From accidents and piracy to mental health crises, the Mission to Seafarers remains steadfast in its mission to provide support and care. Through our global network of chaplains and volunteers and the unwavering support from the maritime community, we continue to offer essential services, advocate for fair treatment, and extend compassion to seafarers navigating these perilous situations. Through these efforts, we strive to ensure that no seafarer faces their trials alone.
