Diocesan Prayer Fellowship


Mission to Seafarers

8th July 2007
5th Sunday after Trinity

Do we realise how much we rely upon the work of seafarers and for all who work in the shipping industry? Over 90% of world trade is carried by ships, and so we owe a debt of gratitude to all seafarers, whose work can sometimes be lonely, dangerous, tiring and taken for granted.  Through practical action, upheld by prayer, THE MISSION TO SEAFARERS, and its sister organisations, minister all over the world to those who go down to the sea in ships.  Please pray for all who minister to seafarers across the world, and in our own Diocese through several ports - including Aden, Bahrain, Dubai and Limassol - served by the Chaplains, Peter, Victor, Stephen and Marvin. 

On this day which is observed as SEA SUNDAY we pray:

Lord, we commend to you keeping all who sail the seas.  Guard them in danger; protect them in temptation; sustain them in loneliness, and support them in sickness and anxiety.  Bless all who minister to their physical and spiritual needs, and guide us all to the haven of eternal life.  Through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen

Eternal God, who called your Church to witness that you were in Christ reconciling the world to yourself; bless and sustain The Mission to Seafarers in its calling to proclaim in word and deed the Good News of your love.  Encourage all who work within the maritime industry, and those who give of their time and energy as Mission Centre volunteers and Ship Visitors.  Prosper the ministry of all societies who meet with seafarers of different faiths and none, of varied cultures, backgrounds, and life-styles; and in welcoming all sailors may we fulfil our vocation to care for those whom we are called to serve in your Name.  In Jesus' Name.  Amen

Loving Father, guide all in positions of leadership in the shipping industry, increase the awareness throughout shipping, of the sanctity of life; strengthen those responsible for safety at sea, those who work in shore-side services, and those involved in the training and welfare of sailors.  Give to each one of us a sense of gratitude for the dedication and service which seafarers bring to the life of our world.  Through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.