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The Port Chaplain Directory 2018 lists phone numbers and e-mail addresses of 216 port chaplains covering 314 ports in 57 countries, compared to 261 ports across 55 countries in 2017. This has just been published by global seafarers’ charity Apostleship of the Sea (AoS).
“The increase in numbers worldwide demonstrates that the provision of welfare support for seafarers remains as vital as ever. Providing up to date and accurate details of all our chaplains is a valuable resource both for seafarers and those working in the maritime industry,” said AoS National Director Martin Foley.
He added, “We are seeing more companies contacting us to help them support their seafarers in need or distress. These companies care about the wellbeing of their crews, and increasingly recognise that a key element of keeping them happy, safe and well, is paying attention to their emotional and mental wellbeing,” he added.
AoS Development Director John Green said the presence of AoS port chaplains globally enabled the charity to provide sustained support to seafarers across continents and for as long as was necessary.
“In one case, we supported a crew member in a US port, while also standing ready to support the needs of his family in South East Asia,” he said.
He added, “This provision of care, and in particular its human element, does so much to lift the spirits of seafarers. Seeing more and more Insurers, management companies and other organisations recognising its value is for us a very positive trend, and one we hope to grow in 2018.”
AoS is the largest provider of port-based welfare care for seafarers in the world with around 650 chaplains, ship visitor volunteers and staff globally who visited an estimated 70,000 ships worldwide last year.
The directory is available both online and in hard copy and port authorities or shipping companies wanting copies for their crews should get in contact with the charity.
AoS’ Port Chaplain Directory 2018 can be downloaded at http://bit.ly/AoSDirectory18
