Serving seafarers regardless their denominations, religions and nationalities was and still is the origin task of the QVSR since 1843. About 95% of trade is transported with ships and in average there are about 12,500 ships per year calling the Port of London.
Because of the difficult circumstances in which seafarers have to live and work, isolated and far away from their loved ones and families, we want to thank them for all their sacrifices. The QVSR acknowledges the commitment, the bravery and the skills of all sailors. Next to the standing invitation to come to the QVSR we are as well providing regular ship visitation throughout the Port of London and ports along the Medway River.
The QVSR's in ecumenical partnership with the German Seamen's Mission is offering support and care for seafarers through our Port Chaplain Deacon Dirk Obermann. He is visiting those on board their vessels and supports them in meeting their needs. That often is simply the listening ear and the personal (sometimes pastoral) conversation which is focusing on the individual human being and not on ships or cargo aspects. The verity of human needs on board, reflects the characteristic of the service provided through Deacon Dirk Obermann as there are:
Working in the global international maritime industry is a challenge that needs international networking and collaboration in order to offer a sufficient support to the individual seafarer. Therefore the QVSR as a member of the International Christian Maritime Association is working alongside with other Seamen's Missions from all over the world. |
