The Mission to Seafarers Enhances Global Influence

The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) has today announced at its Regional Directors Conference, the creation of its new operations in Latin America, which bring the renowned and valued services of the charity to that part of the world for the first time.

As part of its plan to grow its presence, MtS has appointed its first Regional Director of Latin America, The Revd Canon Ian Hutchinson Cervantes who will oversee the organisation’s engagement and expansion within the region. Speaking at the Regional Directors Conference, Revd Canon Hutchinson Cervantes said, “It’s enormously humbling to have been appointed the charity’s first Regional Director for Latin America, a region which has played an important role in my personal and religious life. I am looking forward to enhancing seafarers’ welfare in the region and encouraging the Anglican churches in Latin America to engage with The Mission to Seafarers’ ministry of hospitality, pastoral care and advocacy.”

In addition to the new Regional Director post, MtS also welcomes The Revd Canon Andy Bowerman who assumes the role of Regional Director for The Gulf and South Asia following The Revd Dr Paul Burt’s retirement in September. Addressing colleagues, The Revd Canon Bowerman spoke of his inspiration to take on this new role, “I have, since leaving university, been committed to raising the voices of those who are not heard and to challenging injustice in its many forms. I look forward to continuing this across the Gulf and South Asia.”

Welcoming his two new colleagues and speaking of the exciting time ahead, MtS’ Secretary-General, The Revd Canon Andrew Wright said, “I welcome our new colleagues and I look forward to working with them in shaping the future direction of their regions.  I’m sure they will each make a significant contribution to their regions.  MtS continues to ensure that seafarers’ welfare is at the forefront of the industry’s agenda, and by working closely with special partners including ship owners, managers, P&I Clubs and lawyers, we are placing seafarers and their wellbeing at the heart of innovation within the industry.”