Standing alongside seafarers and fishers with compassion, practical support, and a ministry of presence
Source: Stella Marcis
Being a seafarer or a fisher can be a dangerous and difficult job. When crisis strikes, the consequences can often be devastating, especially if there is no one to turn to for help.
When the worst happens, Stella Maris stands alongside seafarers and fishers. Through its ministry, and the work of its chaplains and volunteer ship visitors, seafarers and fishers can get support when they are most vulnerable.
The support Stella Maris provides can be a lifeline when help is needed urgently. This could mean assisting a seafarer who needs to return to work after a serious accident or supporting a retired fisherman with the cost of fixing a broken boiler or a struggling young cadet pay their rent when no other help is available.
The charity’s Centenary Emergency Fund, established in 2020, exists specifically to provide help for seafarers, fishers and their families in urgent need. Grants can fund anything from food, accommodation and medical care to legal help and livelihood training. Often it is a last hope when no other support is available. Every grant is distributed through a local Stella Maris chaplain, ensuring help reaches those who need it quickly and personally.
In one example, following a serious accident at sea, full-time fisherman Matthew was trying to rebuild his livelihood. But repairing his fishing vessel used all his wages – and Matthew relied on food banks to survive.
The Stella Maris grant meant Matthew could buy a fridge freezer to store his catch and return to fishing faster, and his dignity and income was restored.
In another example British Army veteran John (not his real name) wanted to return to work as a fisherman but could not afford the five-day mandatory safety training course for working at sea.
A Stella Maris grant covered the fee for John – and he sent this message once he passed: “I really can’t thank you enough. This will literally change my life. I can finally look forward rather than dwelling on the past.”
This life-saving support provided by Stella Maris is made possible through donations towards the Centenary Fund. Last year, demand was so great that the fund was exhausted by August. This year Stella Maris aims to raise £100,000 to ensure they can support any seafarer or fisher who needs it.
This Lent, Stella Maris invites you to be a light and bring hope to a seafarer, fisher or their family members who is desperate and at breaking point. Your generosity can be life-transforming. It will help Stella Maris chaplains and ship visitors continue to provide critical help.
Please also keep in prayer the many seafarers, fishers and their families during this holy season.
Visit www.stellamaris.org.uk/lent/ to make a donation or find out how you can help.
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