When the Filipino crew of a ship docked at Leith asked for Mass on board, their wish was granted thanks to the care of Stella Maris and a local priest.
Fr Ray Warren OMI (main pic left), of St Mary Star of the Sea Parish in Leith, celebrated Mass for the crew, heard confessions, and blessed the ship.
A sister vessel berthed alongside also had Catholic crew members take part.
After Mass, Robert King – Stella Maris Regional Port Chaplain for Glasgow and Edinburgh (main pic right) – distributed prayer cards, rosaries, holy water, and woolly hats.
For the men of the laid-up ship, whose faith is important to them, it was a moment of faith, friendship, and recognition in the midst of their demanding work at sea.
One crew member expressed how much it meant: it lifted their spirits, gave them peace, and reassured them that they are not forgotten.
Life on the Peripheries
Seafarers and fishers live and work on the margins of society.
Their lives are hidden from view, yet they play a crucial role in bringing us so much of the food, fuel, and goods we depend on.
They endure isolation, limited shore leave, and the dangers of sailing through risky waters.
They miss family milestones – births, graduations, celebrations, funerals – moments most of us take for granted.
Not Forgotten
That is why Stella Maris exists: to remind them that they are not alone.
Its chaplains and volunteer ship visitors are a lifeline in ports around the UK, offering friendship, practical help, and spiritual care.
Robert King’s support for the crew in Leith showed this in action. His presence, and the celebration of Mass, reminded the seafarers that their sacrifices are recognised and that they are visible, valued, and loved.
As we celebrate the season of harvest and abundance, let us remember these hidden heroes of the sea.
Please keep seafarers and fishers in your prayers and support the mission of Stella Maris, which continues to serve them with Christ’s love.
For more information and to donate, visit www.stellamaris.org.uk.