This is Daniel’s second stint using his practical skills as an electrician on the floating bookfair. When he was single, he served for a year on a previous vessel, Doulos. Alejandra had also been a volunteer on a sister ship, Logos II. They returned to sea as a family in early 2017.

“I really like that we are with each other the whole day and that all four of us can be involved in ministry to local people together,” says Daniel.

Making a ship home is not simple, but Priscila and Ruth have come to love the small cabin they live in and recognise they have all they really need. Whilst Alejandra is a doctor by profession, her main role on Logos Hope is that of parent: teaching her girls additional Argentinian curriculum lessons after the onboard school day and being a motherly role model to 14 international crewmembers in their ‘ship family’.

“I feel that a period of mission service is something the whole family can benefit from and participate in,” Daniel says, “And a family unit can support themselves emotionally in ways that a single person can’t, when they’re away from home.”

The Esposito daughters can now speak English well and have made close friends from all over the world. Their understanding of different cultures is broadening and they are seeing God at work in powerful ways as the ship’s community ministers to people in all sorts of situations.

“We want to have every opportunity, wherever we are, to challenge the Church about mission,” the electrician explains. “Many missionaries came to our home, Latin America, to bring us the knowledge of the gospel – so we have been blessed and we now have to pass the blessings on!”

The Espositos are particularly looking forward to being on board Logos Hope as the ship starts her tour of the South American continent in early 2018.

Destruction was widespread with burnt-out villages swallowed by jungle and previously-thriving businesses now rubble. Issues that led the Bougainville Revolutionary Army to fight for independence had not been fully resolved, but there was a delicate peace, a governing structure, and an invitation for OM’s Ship Ministry to return.

Captain Graeme Bird (New Zealand) charted his course warily. The harbour was a minefield of hazards. No international vessel had moored in the port of Kieta since Doulos departed nine and a half years earlier. Every navigation light was broken. The wharf had not been serviced and the water had become a dumping ground for all manner of debris, including vehicles.

The ship had, in fact, been there as the conflict began. In January 1990, a day before Doulos was due alongside, permission for all ministry activities was revoked as violence escalated. An exceptional solution was found, with the vessel’s lifeboats acting as water taxis to ferry Bougainvilleans to the ship at anchor. Many people gave their lives to Christ as they heard the gospel on board.

David Short (UK), a Ship Ministry stalwart who’d previously worked in Papua New Guinea, was helping the advance preparation team. In a café in Kieta, he noticed a smart-looking gentleman eating his evening meal. When David told the diner about Doulos, the man introduced himself as Joseph Kabui, president of the Bougainville People’s Congress and interim leader of the island. He invited the ship’s representatives to his office the following morning.

The next day, President Kabui presented two requests. First, would Doulos hold a seminar on prayer for Bougainville’s new leaders; and second, could its politicians have training in good governing principles?

“I couldn’t believe it!” recalls David. “Of course, this has happened many times—meeting the right person at the right time. God was very much guiding and directing…a leader doesn’t normally ask those sorts of questions!”

Doulos Director Lloyd Nicholas (Australia) flexed the programme as the Lord led. He and the chief engineer were the main speakers at a three-day leadership seminar and recalls, "The leaders of the two factions each came with about 30 of their senior people. They sat separately from one another and did not interact much. Then on the third day, delegates who’d been rivals—even enemies in combat—publicly released their bitterness and sought forgiveness from one another."

A former commercial pilot had disembarked from the ship the previous day to find a man waiting for him. He recognised him immediately as the person who, during the crisis, had dragged him from his plane and forced him to watch it burn. Now, a decade later, that man had waited all day to find the pilot and apologise for his actions.

The vice president of the Bougainville People’s Congress felt God speak to him on the ship, as he observed those on board. As a new believer, he recommitted to his responsibilities to be a faithful husband and leader of his family first, before leading the population effectively.

More people were moved to share their hearts. President Joseph Kabui repented of things said and done. The leader of the opposing faction responded with his own sincere apologies. Men rose from their chairs to stand behind their respective leader. The two lines approached each other in turn, shaking hands, shedding tears and embracing as they expressed sorrow over what had come between them.

“The UN ambassador to Bougainville and the Australian Army commander who led the Peace Monitoring Group were watching from the back of the room, speechless and amazed when that happened!" remembers Lloyd. 

The ship’s final day in port was 21 September, the United Nations’ International Day of Peace. That afternoon, a traditional ceremony was held on the quayside to publicly mark the progress made on board. Hundreds gathered in the shadow of the ship to witness former enemies participate in cultural expressions of togetherness and seal a symbolic pledge.

The UN ambassador, His Excellency Mr. Noel Sinclair, gave a stirring speech at the reconciliation ceremony, holding up Doulos’ community as an example for the world.

“Your floating missionary group of more than 30 nationalities is a demonstration of the reality and effectiveness of unity and reconciliation among people,” declared the ambassador. He found it fitting that the vessel had become the platform on which the island's leaders recommitted to their responsibilities “in a serious manner, seeking the wisdom, blessing and guidance of the Prince of Peace.”

The international community had deployed an Australian-led force to oversee the truce. These military men asked for copies of the Jesus film in Pidgin English to take the message of restoration to village communities. Teams from Doulos brought huge donations of books to rebuild destroyed libraries and help a generation of unschooled children to make a fresh start.

“The Doulos leadership is still a bit stunned and humbled at being a part of the peace and reconciliation process, feeling that they were merely a witness to what God is doing in this province,” said a report from the ship, as she sailed away.

In her wake, word got around that the island was ‘open for business’ once more, and international vessels resumed trade there. Doulos had brought New Testaments in the East Papuan language of Naasioi, which was a great boost to the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators and encouraged local pastors. Many churches were challenged by the political unity the ship’s visit had fostered, leading them to set aside their denominational isolationism.

OM’s Ship Ministry first formed a bond with Papua New Guinea when the original Logos called there in 1979, and continues to enjoy strong links with the nation. Many believers have been inspired into ministry or missions. In 2017, six Papua New Guineans are serving the Lord on board Logos Hope.

Julie Knox, from the UK, is the writer for OM Ships, having been called to the ministry out of a career in broadcast journalism. In 2016, she hung up her microphone and body armour but found that her previous experience of reporting from warships could be used during a stint at sea as Logos Hope’s journalist. Julie is now shore-based, working from the Ship Ministry’s office in Germany.

Seelan is the youngest CEO of the non-profit organisation, which first set sail in 1970. The 40 year-old has been at sea with OM since 1999, holding positions including director of the previous ship, Doulos, and managing director of the current vessel, Logos Hope.

Seelan, his wife Carlien and their two children have left the onboard community of 400 Christian volunteers and will settle in Germany, to work from the charity’s headquarters in Mosbach, Baden-Wurttemberg.

Peter Nicoll wholeheartedly endorses his successor, saying, “I think Seelan is really the ideal person to take us forward. He’s got a thorough understanding of what’s going on in the mission world and within Operation Mobilisation.”

Peter and his wife Bernice plan to stay involved with the organisation they have been part of since the 1980s, and will serve on OM’s exciting new European Riverboat next year.

Assuming overall leadership and management of OM Ships’ shore-based operations as well as Logos Hope, Seelan Govender says, “This is a position I step into in faith and obedience, trusting in the Lord’s leading. I believe that OM Ships exists to show that Jesus makes the difference in all of our lives. We take the message of the gospel to some of the least-reached people and places, in order to fulfil what is written in Revelation chapter 7; that one day there will be a great multitude representing all nations, tribes and people, standing before the throne of heaven."

“OM Ships is a family of dedicated, selfless people whom God has called to offer their abilities and their heart. We depend humbly upon our global support base of faithful partners, whose prayers and finance make our service possible. I am excited about pressing forward together to increase the Ship Ministry’s impact around the world.”

Moving into Seelan’s former position of managing director on board Logos Hope is Pil-Hun Park (South Korea). He and his wife Mi-Ae both have previous leadership experience on board Doulos. They return to the Ship Ministry from SaRang Community Church in Seoul, where Pil-Hun’s role as a mission pastor has ably equipped him to lead Logos Hope’s vibrant and diverse community in sharing knowledge, help and hope in each port of call.

Logos Hope, the world’s largest floating book fair, is touring the Caribbean throughout 2017. The ship is crewed by Christian volunteers representing 64 different nations and welcomes thousands of visitors each day. Attractions on board include a vast bookstore, café, theatre, conferences and multi-cultural events. Personnel go ashore to reach out to people at their point of need, offering practical help in communities and demonstrating God’s love and power to transform lives.

Logos Hope is currently open to the public in Oranjestad, Aruba.

Besides serving in the onboard book fair and evangelistic events, crewmembers went ashore to connect with churches and join relief efforts. A two-year experience matured young Christians, as they lived and worked in a confined space as part of a multicultural ‘family’. They brought back a broader world view and inspiring stories of seeing God at work on their travels.

Key partners enabled the ships, through prayer and practical support. Faithful individuals sent sponsorship, maritime fees were waived as gestures of goodwill, and gifts came from churches the work had touched. OM Ships had a wake that rippled far and wide. That support proved to be the ministry’s mainstay. On 4 January 1988, Logos struck a submerged rock shelf in the Beagle Channel, between Argentina and Chile.

The notoriously hazardous channel is littered with obstructions. Providing local knowledge as Logos weaved through in a storm was an Argentine pilot, but he chose to return to his own boat earlier than agreed. Transferring the pilot by rope ladder in the dark took time. Logos drifted off course and couldn’t avoid the rocks.

A loud grinding noise and jarring movements woke the community. It was midnight. Assembling in the dining room, they were told not to panic. They prayed. The eight children were allowed back to bed, provided they slept in warm clothing with life jackets on hand. Attempts to reverse Logos off the rock shelf didn’t succeed, nor did de-ballasting and waiting for the rising tide to refloat the ship.

That wait brought daylight—an undoubted lifesaver. But Logos had tipped dangerously to the port side. Sending everyone to stand on the starboard side didn’t correct the list. Being pounded against the rocks with each wave, Logos’ hull began to give way. Water flooded the book hold. At 5:00, Captain Jonathan Stewart (UK) gave the order to abandon ship.

“Although it was scary, I still had peace,” said Kathy Coy (USA). “I know it was only God’s grace that kept us calm.” Testimonies reiterate that even the children, who included a six-week-old baby, were not fretful. Judith Fredricsen (New Zealand) was in the ship’s clinic with one leg in a plaster cast. She remembered everyone working together and caring for each other.

They slid along the deck in freezing rain and grappled with lifeboats hanging at perilous angles. Everything on board—­uninsured cargo and personal possessions—was forsaken for what really mattered. Logos’ community of 141 was clear of the vessel in 10 minutes, and all six lifeboats were rounded up in less than half an hour. Rescue teams from the Chilean Navy called it a miracle that all souls got to safety. One young man rejoiced that he hadn’t even missed a meal.

OM Ships’ coordinator, Dale Rhoton (US), wrote later, “The thought that kept me sane during those trying days after the shipwreck was: ‘The valuables are safe!’ Not one of the 141 valuables was hurt in the least. People familiar with evacuations under similar circumstances are amazed. We bow our heads and worship.”

Looking back from the lifeboats, the stunned Logos family saw a rainbow streaming over the wreck.

Replacing a tool, not a ministry

News of the loss of the ship was broadcast across the world, and an outpouring of support surged back. Shipping agents and book publishers wrote in sympathy. Individuals, churches and charities offered whatever was needed. In Punta Arenas, Chile, the people Logos had ministered to two weeks earlier now fed, clothed and comforted her crew.

Money was donated to meet immediate needs and cover the cost of flying people home or to another OM ministry. No one expected $1.4 million US to come in within eight weeks. International partners clearly intended there to be a Logos II.

A letter accompanying one of the first contributions, $13.17 US from young siblings in Georgia, USA, read: “It may not buy a ship, but it is a start.”

On board Youth With A Mission’s hospital ship, Anastasis, volunteers took up a solidarity offering. They faxed a note, drawing encouragement from a parallel shipwreck in Scripture, where the Apostle Paul’s vessel runs aground: “Acts 27—no loss of life—used for good. With you all the way in Jesus’ name.”

Japanese Christians gave $10,000 USD and began searching dockyards for a replacement ship. Brazilians sold jewellery and a freezer, forwarding the proceeds. Venezuelans donated cows for a fundraising barbeque.

An American pastor marvelled, “Perhaps, for the first time, I have seen how God’s people on every continent can rally to meet a common need.” 

Dale Rhoton wrote to supporters: “Our last video was entitled Logos is People. We really believe that! We have not lost a ministry. We have lost a tool. People are irreplaceable. Ministries are given only by God. Tools are to be used and then replaced… We commit ourselves to pray and work to replace the tool that was lost. The Logos was not lost through rusting in a port. She fell in battle! Our plans: FULL STEAM AHEAD!”

The time for a more capable tool was coming anyway. Logos’ activities were outgrowing the space available, and refurbishment was needed. While 1988 brought a serious trial, God did indeed use it for good. OM saw how the Ship Ministry was valued, globally, and was enabled to launch a better vessel the following year.

To this day, the original Logos offers a service to seafarers. Still on the rocks at almost the end of the Earth, she acts a warning beacon. Her successor has since been scrapped and her sister ship has retired, but Logos continues her witness at sea, three decades on.

Julie Knox, from the UK, is the writer for OM Ships, having been called to the ministry out of a career in broadcast journalism. In 2016, she hung up her microphone and body armour but found that her previous experience of reporting from warships could be used during a stint at sea as Logos Hope’s journalist. Julie is now shore-based, working from the ship ministry’s office in Germany.

But there may not have been an established local church to follow up the work. New Christians have started their own in some places; in others, believers have felt called to plant more—either in their own communities or further afield.

The Ship Ministry’s impact is hard to quantify from a distance, over four decades. What is known is that the Holy Spirit has continued the ripple effect around the world after the ships have sailed on, and there are many encouraging stories of fellowships being founded as a result.

A Logos visit to India in 1979 led to a new church named in its honour. The port of Visakhapatnam and surrounding areas eventually saw more than 50 churches established through the momentum generated by both Logos and Doulos in the 1980s.  

Northeast of Visakhapatnam, the gospel touched the slum village of Arilova when Doulos’ evangelism director, Daniel Chae (South Korea), was involved in the birth of a fellowship in a tent, named Emmanuel Church, in January 1988. He made a return trip 14 years later, reuniting with the brother in Christ who had taken on the ministry.

“How I longed to see Pastor Vincent Edwin!” Daniel recalled. “When we hugged each other at the airport, we had tears in our eyes. Vincent gave up his well-paid job with the harbour authorities to carry on the evangelistic ministry we had started. Under his excellent leadership in Arilova, many more churches had been planted. I heard there were 3,000 believers and 65 churches in what was now a town of 10,000 people—and all were in good spirit and unity, despite their extreme poverty.”

A pastor in South Korea was moved to form a mission board to support the work in Visakhapatnam province. Gloria Emmanuel Ministry has prayerfully and practically enabled the planting of many churches, and has helped pastors' children with scholarships. 

During his trip in 2002, Daniel Chae also revisited Galle, Sri Lanka, where he had been with Logos. He was able to reconnect with those he’d trained on a leadership course and were now in full-time Christian ministries.

“We visited outpost churches in villages where I had led outreach teams 20 years previously. What a joy it was for me to preach in churches which had started soon after the ship left!”

Daniel thanked God for more than 30 fellowships that had sprung up in the city and hill country, under the Smyrna Church banner. “We did very small things, then the Lord has done marvellous things through the faithful brothers and sisters in these countries,” he reported.

In West Africa, Doulos crewmembers saw a small gathering form within a month in an impoverished fishing village in Togo in 1986. After pointing two fishermen to Christ, the ship welcomed them to daily Bible studies. The fishermen started a prayer group and held outreach services for their neighbours. Before the ship visit ended, four new believers were baptised. The men refused to be thwarted when they tried to give their new friends on the ship a send-off. When the port guards denied them entry, the fishermen paddled alongside the departing Doulos in canoes to wave goodbye!

OM Ships has seen not just churches, but charities and other Christian initiatives launched as people have responded to God’s call. In 2004, a Doulos team helped at a home for abandoned children in Tiranë, Albania, whose founder had been challenged to do something for the Lord at a meeting on board Doulos in Grangemouth, Scotland, 20 years earlier.

The ships have also been a lifeline in bringing believers together. During Logos II’s time in Montenegro in 2007, only two Christians were known of in Kotor, a town of 25,000 people. Within two weeks, the crew had encountered several others living in spiritual isolation, unaware of other local believers. Logos II connected nine followers of Christ and advised them how to start a congregation.

Those who have been spurred into action after exposure to the Ship Ministry aren’t all external groups and individuals. Hundreds of OMers have discovered that their gap year or initial period of mission on board has served as foundational preparation for the lifetime God had planned for them in His service.

The full depths cannot be plumbed. Logos Hope’s crewmembers were reminded of that recently, by a Nigerian Christian leader who had volunteered on board when Logos called in his country in 1977. Pastor Ezekiel Odeyemi made a special journey across Cameroon with a financial gift for the Ship Ministry, which had inspired him to build up his own library and deepen his knowledge of God. He went on to start a church movement, which has spread to seven countries. Pastor Ezekiel encouraged the current Logos Hope crew that, while they may not be able to see the immediate results of their work for the Lord, from his own experience a long-term impact would be made for the kingdom.

Only heaven holds the inventory.

“Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.” - John 21:25 (NIV).

Julie Knox, from the UK, is the writer for OM Ships, having been called to the ministry out of a career in broadcast journalism. In 2016, she hung up her microphone and body armour but found that her previous experience of reporting from warships could be used during a stint at sea as Logos Hope’s journalist. Julie is now shore-based, working from the ship ministry’s office in Germany.

As he tried to redeem the time mentally, an idea began to form. This two-month ordeal was a prodigious waste of time. Air travel? Think of how many tracts could be bought for the price of one airline ticket! There must be another way.

A few months later, when George was back in England, the idea of using a ship for evangelism came up. He launched into a spirited presentation about the money that could be saved in transporting people and goods between Britain and mainland Europe, or all the way to India. Other OM leaders in the room threw out all kinds of ideas, from the witty or ridiculous to serious possibilities. But the facts were that they were all in their 20s or 30s and none of them knew anything about ships. Nor was there any money for such a venture. Still, George could not let go of the idea. He talked about the vision as he preached in churches, constantly asking people to pray.

A year passed. Two years. Responses began to come in. Some were strongly worded and largely negative. One, however, came from a British captain, whose presence added weight to George’s pleas as the two men presented their vision in various Christian meetings.  

The search for a suitable ship for OM’s unique ministry began. Steadily, professional crewmembers pledged to serve without pay on a vessel that did not yet exist: from an Australian chief engineer to a Norwegian first officer, who had only been a believer for one year; and even a young Arab deck officer who hadn't been a Christian when prayer for the project began. By 1970, 15 professional crew from 10 countries were on board—figuratively!

Then came a shock: After much prayer, the British captain felt he should set a deadline if he was to serve at the helm. If God provided the ship by the end of August 1970, he would proceed; otherwise, he would withdraw.

In September 1970, the annual conference for all OM workers was held in a cold, draughty, disused factory in a London suburb. One morning, George came bounding out of his makeshift office shouting, “It’s free! The Umanak is free!”

The Umanak was a Danish vessel OM leaders had settled on, but a Nigerian company had made a better offer. That deal had just fallen through and the ship had become available. God provided the money needed to complete the purchase.

After setting the end of August as his deadline, the British captain would not reconsider, believing it was God's will for him to bow out. He had played a significant role in the project, but he never sailed on the ship. The role of captain was given to the first officer from Norway.

OM named the new vessel Logos, which means 'written word' in Greek. It is used in the Bible to refer to Jesus Christ.

Discovery follows faith

On 26 February, 1971, Logos left London on her maiden voyage to India. Sailing down the west coast of Africa, she stopped in several ports to take on fuel, water and food supplies. This provided an opportunity to spend a week or two in each port so that OMers could go ashore to pass out tracts, go door to door, hold open-air evangelistic meetings or visit churches, schools or wherever appropriate for meetings. On board, there was a small book exhibition and a room to host gatherings of Christian leaders.

In Cape Town, South Africa, one Sunday morning, an OM team returning from a church meeting was surprised to see a long queue of people in the port area, feeding onto Logos. What was that all about? Local people had come to visit the ship after church. On that one day, the book exhibition recorded sales of over 600 British pounds

Later, for the first time when Logos left a port, all her bills incurred there could be paid for by book sales.

A great realisation dawned: Ship people could go ashore for ministry, but the ship itself could be an attraction—a platform for ministry—offering books, tours, conferences and personal interaction with the crew.

And so it was. Long queues became a common sight in the months and years ahead. The original vision to transport OM volunteers and goods was swallowed up by a much greater vision: a ship sailing from port to port throughout the world, carrying the message of hope in Jesus Christ and copies of His Word to nations of every religious and political background.

OM's Ship Ministry had begun.


Since 1970, OM's Ship Ministry has:

• operated four different ships;
• welcomed over 45 million people on board;
• distributed over 70 million portions of Scripture;
• visited over 150 countries and 1,470 ports;
• trained more than 10,000 crew and staff for future life and service;
• partnered with over 60,000 churches;
• hosted more than six million people at onboard events;
• greeted an average of 250,000 children visiting the ship each year;
• distributed over 38.5 million books;
• worked with more than 40,000 local port volunteers; and
• seen countless numbers of people come to faith in God.

In 1961, Elaine Rhoton worked alongside her husband, Dale, as he pioneered OM’s work in Turkey. In 1967, when visa problems ended their work among Turks, they began taking Bibles and Christian literature to believers in Communist countries. Leaving that work in the capable hands of others in 1975, they moved into the Ship Ministry and sailed with their children aboard Doulos in 1978. They are still with OM Ships.

There may be several cases of the ship inspiring parents to pass on the name, and its legacy, to their children. Churches and evangelical initiatives around the world also bear the name Logos, Doulos, or even Hope. The Ship Ministry recently connected with two men who were not only given the name Doulos, but are living up to it.

In August 1986, Emmanuel and Elfriede Quaye visited Doulos in the port of Tema, Ghana, when Mrs. Quaye was eight months pregnant with their first child. The couple bought children’s story books as they prepared for their baby’s arrival. They also took the ministry to heart.

“We were so excited because it was a Christian ship,” recalled Elfriede. “The work they were doing was amazing, helping the needy. We asked the meaning of the word 'Doulos' and learned that it meant ‘bondservant’. So right there in the ship, we thought that if our baby was a boy, we would name him Doulos.”

Sure enough, on 21st September 1986, after the ship had sailed on, the Quayes’ son came into the world. They had no further contact with the ministry, but spoke its name daily, having called their firstborn after it.

Exactly 30 years later, the port of Tema was hosting Logos Hope. Crowds of thousands queued for hours on a Ghanaian public holiday to visit the onboard book fair. Among the throng were three people on a very special mission. Clutching a well-preserved black and white flyer from the 1986 visit, Emmanuel and Elfriede had brought their Doulos - on his 30th birthday.

When a crewmember who was helping manage the crowds met the family and heard their tale, he raced inside the ship to let others know. The Quayes were soon being introduced to the 400 volunteers eating their evening meal in the dining room. Doulos had a rousing rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ sung to him, amid much clapping and cheering for his symbolic name.

“When I was growing up, I had to find out the meaning of my name,” Doulos told his new brothers and sisters on board. “Paul uses it when he talks about being a bondservant of Christ, and he encourages all believers to be slaves of righteousness and servants of God. I took on that; I lived it, and I’m still living it.”

Mr. Quaye is full of pride at how his son has grown into the name he was given. “He is part of a singing group, and has been to an orphanage to give out gifts this morning,” explained Emmanuel. “That’s how our son spent his birthday. So what the ship is doing, bringing help and hope, is having an effect on his life!”

Doulos said he feels a prophetic call on his life and is exploring joining the ministry which he is bonded to by name, and through a common faith in the name of Jesus.

A child of hope

Back in 1986, those serving on board Doulos knew nothing about the Ghanaian baby. A year later, crewmembers found themselves in a remote Malaysian village which was in despair. They only spent a few days with the community, but they brought a glimmer of hope amidst grief and left a newborn a legacy wrapped up in his name.

Sabah, the East Malaysian state on the island of Borneo, was receiving the ship for the first time. Aaron Yong (Malaysia) was a short-term volunteer finding the cross-cultural environment a steep learning curve. Things got even more challenging when his first task on an outreach was conducting the funeral service of a woman who had just died of malaria.

A family of eight children had lost their mother. The youngest was just five days old. Aaron was the only one on the Doulos team who could speak the local language, but still, as he glanced from the coffin to the cradle, he felt anything but prepared.

He prayed for wisdom. Offering a perspective from Psalm 84, that length of life is not what matters, Aaron reminded the mourners,“Better is one day in His courts than a thousand elsewhere.”

The following day, the team returned to the village to learn that the baby had just opened his eyes for the first time. Those caring for the child were insistent the volunteers should name him.

The team settled on ‘Doulos’, their unifying and inspirational link. They all signed a souvenir postcard of the vessel and explained the name’s significance to the child’s father.

In 2014, Aaron Yong - who had become a pastor - found himself back in Sabah on business. He wondered if he could find Doulos, who would be 27 years old by then.

It helped that the Greek name was distinctive. A local pastor tracked down the young man, whom Aaron was delighted to learn was a youth pastor-in-training. Despite trying to run away from God in his youth, “the Lord called me back, and reminded me that He has called me to be His servant,” Doulos explained to the man who had named him.

The reunion was precious. Doulos had kept the postcard the ship’s outreach team had left with his family. He and Pastor Aaron now keep in touch and are an encouragement to each other.

It’s almost a decade since Doulos stopped sailing, but OMers know and trust that the legacy of the Ship Ministry lives on in the communities the vessels have visited, by God’s grace. It is especially encouraging to hear, many years later, of the next generation of Jesus followers - bondservants - whose lives are bound up with this unique endeavour for the Kingdom.

Stronger because of our weaknesses

The team in Zambia struggled with unexpected sickness almost every time they ministered to people since arriving in Kabwe, Zambia, where they were based.

“We tried to figure out why, but we were perplexed,” shared team member, Tanya Ying (Thailand). The team persevered in prayer and soon, team members began to regain their physical strength.

Energised, the team took part in children’s ministry in a remote village called Kacahanga. After visiting several times, the children could memorise all the Bible verses and all the Bible stories that were shared with them. Through this, the team experienced the power of God made stronger in their weaknesses.

Speaking into hearts

The team in Malawi worked with OM Malawi to connect with the Yao people, an unreached people group with high illiteracy rates. OM Malawi has developed an audio Bible, which contains the complete Bible in the Yao language. With this device, bible studies are conducted regularly and effectively.

One afternoon, David Houser (USA) cycled to a faraway village to conduct a bible study session with the locals. David asked them to play Ephesians 2:1-10 on the audio Bible and the people listened intently. David then shared with them that those verses talk about how God loves us and how He saved us through His grace. He then asked them what they had understood from the verses and the locals replied, “Nothing can separate us from God’s love”.

At the end of the session, David invited people forward if they wanted to receive the free gift of grace and salvation from God and all the attendees responded positively.

Salvation is practical

The need in Lesotho is crying out - over 20% of the country is HIV positive and in need of medication. Yet, this is not the biggest problem the locals are facing. Unemployment covers the landscape across the country, bringing young people into a deep sense of hopelessness.

After connecting with the local pastor the team was working with, they received information that there were no resources at the moment to start the building project they were going to be helping with, resulting in a change of plans.

As Elliot Jones (U.K.) shared in a team devotion, the team was encouraged by the quote: “Salvation is practical”. Even if they wouldn’t be doing actual hard labour, they would definitely reach out to people in practical ways, sharing the message of hope and doing what they could to encourage and esteem the people of Lesotho.

The team was able to visit a rural village and volunteered in a clinic set up by a local church. They handed out free meals, prayed over patients and shared words of encouragement, especially with the HIV-infected patients.

Team leader, Kapela Sibiya (South Africa), explained to the crowd how to fully entrust their lives to Jesus and rely on Him. The local pastor working with the team was encouraged by the overwhelming response when people stepped forward to be prayed for and wanted to get in contact with the church to take their next step in their walk with God.

Keep hope

The team serving in ‪‎AIDS Hope located in Pretoria, a ministry aimed at restoring the lives of people impacted by the HIV and AIDS pandemic in South Africa, helped children living with HIV and AIDS with their homework in the ‘After School Programme’ for a month.

Some children had already given up on their education, knowing that they are lagging far behind their peers, and many were struggling with their motivation to study.

“We kept encouraging the children daily,” shared team member Gabriela Peralta (USA). “I told the boy I was coaching that he could be an astronaut if he worked hard. I tried to help him dream, help him see the future and have ‪hope.”

God never makes mistakes

After spending two weeks in a village called Kumakwane, the team in Botswana travelled to another village named Taung for what would be the most intensive leg of the month of serving on shore during the dry dock. Their week in Taung proved to be a time of spiritual revival for the village.

Together with their host, Pastor Ntu, the team went to different churches and spent a lot of time praying with locals, particularly for deliverance and healing, and the team saw God's power at work in supernatural ways.

“Never underestimate what God can do through you,” said Pastor Ntu, whose prayer for a venue for his church was also answered during the time the team visited. 

One morning while the team was visiting homes, they ended up in a house that was not on their list. Despite that, team leader Carlos Sabino (Brazil), stood firm that God had brought the team to that particular home to bring hope to the family.

“I believe our God never makes mistakes, even for this visit!” proclaimed Carlos. “He guided us to visit this house today because he wants the Gospel to be brought here.” As the team and Pastor Ntu shared the Gospel, every family member in the house acknowledged their sin and decided to follow Jesus. “We pray that the family will keep having the desire to know more about God. We pray that they will make godly decisions in their lives and bring glory to God!” shared the team.

Fishers of men

Limited resources and a high illiteracy rate mean that most of the Christians around Lake Tanganyika are unable to read the Bible or worship God in truth. The team serving alongside the ministry of OM Lake Tanganyika travelled for eight hours by boat along the lake to visit Chibanga, a remote village located near the border of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The purpose of this visit was to conduct the two-day 'Fisher of Man' course, a basic doctrine training for local believers. The 14-hour days began at 5 a.m. with prayer and went through 7 p.m. as night fell, with the goal of encouraging and equipping the local church. From the doctrines of salvation and prayer through discussion on traditions and the Biblical basis for mission, the team tried to clear up misunderstanding and build a Biblical foundation in a practical way.

Without a projector or a white board, the team shared the concepts with simple stories and illustrations, and the warm response from the villagers encouraged them on.

“It was eye-opening for the villagers to see people from different parts of the world who believe in the same God," said Charles Chansa, one of the trainers. 

The Father’s love

A youth gathering that ended with all the youths falling on their knees to receive God's love into their hearts afresh revealed the needs of the people to crewmembers – people in need of a true and unfailing love.

The challenge team in Klawer, Cape West of South Africa, has been spending time with children and youths, many of whom battle with serious family issues. The problems continue in a vicious cycle as the children grow up and follow in the footsteps of their fathers, committing the same mistakes in their own families.

In a school that the team visited, about 90% of the children are growing up without a proper father figure in their lives. With that knowledge, the team planned a programme centred around the love of God, whom they can call upon as their own Father. The 'Father's love letter', a letter comprising of different Bible verses, was read to the children and ended with the invitation - “Will you be my child?” Some children, even the five-year-olds, were teary-eyed at the end as they learnt that despite the disappointments from their earthly fathers, they have an eternal hope in a heavenly Father.

More than a street corner

20 homeless people crowded around a small table and two candles in a street corner to study the word of God. The team partnering with Northway Community Church in Durban, South Africa, had the privilege to witness this incredible sight.

A young man, homeless himself, was sharing a message on the body of Christ. Ingrid Mutseyekwa (Zimbabwe) was amazed that someone who had no roof over his head, who didn’t know when or where he would get his next meal, could have such faith and hope in Jesus. She struck up a conversation with the young man and was surprised to find out that he too, was from Zimbabwe.

“I left Zimbabwe three years ago, I came to look for a job but instead I found Jesus,” shared the young man. “Many people look at us and feel sorry for us, but we are at peace as we know that God has put us in this place for a season to teach us something, and we have never experienced God so strongly before.”

In this street corner, the homeless praise and worship God. They wake up in the wee hours of the night and pray to God, something that even those with proper homes do not do.

Understanding God

“I want to know God. Who is God?” asked a teenage girl living in a hostel called ‘Esther’s House’ where the Logos Hope team in Lesotho was ministering. ‘Esther’s House’ houses girls coming from difficult backgrounds and broken families and provides them with the opportunity to attend school and grow in their relationship with Jesus.

Every morning, the team did devotions with around 40 of these girls and answered the many perplexing questions they had. With this question, the team looked into the attributes of God through various Bible passages and helped the girls gain more understanding about who God is.

“The previous two visits of Doulos were successful, but the visit of Logos Hope is beyond that—this is incredible. The book fair was full all the time and shelves empty every night!” enthused Reverend Dr. Go Chin Zam, leader of OM’s partner organisation in Myanmar. “Thousands of people queued for hours just to meet the international crew and access the books on board.”

Altogether 102,195 people visited the ship, 124,195 books were purchased (of which 29,902 were Bibles or other Christian literature) and 6,183 people attended programmes on board. One of these was a special event for around 100 monks and nuns from a Buddhist school who were invited on board to learn more about the purpose of the vessel and meet the crew and staff. 

A major milestone was reached during the visit when the five millionth visitor to Logos Hope since her launch in 2009 climbed up the gangway in Yangon. Local taxi driver Mr. U Tin Hla, and his family of four, were welcomed at 11:30am local time on Tuesday, 6 October 2015, by Logos Hope Director Seelan Govender (South Africa), Captain Tom Dyer (USA) and Managing Director of Public Ministries Ronnie Lappin (UK).  
 
Excited, as well as somewhat overwhelmed by the attention, Mr. Hla said he had first read about the visit of Logos Hope in the newspaper and was keen to come on board to find books for his teenage children. When it was revealed to him that he was a special visitor, Mr. Hla commented, “I never expected this, not even in my dreams!”  It was his family’s first visit to the ship and they were grateful for the warm hospitality they received, including the personal tour of the ship given by Captain Tom Dyer.

Logos Hope also sent out teams to visit orphanages and childcare centres for abandoned children almost every day. These orphanages and centres are located in rural villages, where houses are mostly built out of simple materials. Apart from games and fun with the children, love was shown in practical ways through repairing and refurbishing the buildings and the surrounding neighbourhood.

An event for children from these orphanages and centres held on board saw more than 600 children attending. Drama, juggling, clowning and dance performances kept each one at the edge of their seat. Every child received a book voucher, donated by visitors in Hong Kong, to spend at the book fair—a real delight for them.

“We rejoice at the opportunities we have had to provide practical help to needy communities and be a testimony of God’s love in Myanmar at this important point in the country’s history,” said OM Ships’ CEO Peter Nicoll. “Logos Hope has left Asia after four remarkable years, with so much to praise God for. The ship is now bound for Africa—a continent with many struggles but also enormous potential for the Gospel.”

A video with highlights from this port is available to view at logoshope.tv/video/143258521.

You can invest in this life-transforming ministry by giving online at www.omships.org/donate or through your local office: www.om.org/contact.
 

The thought went through Swens’ mind as he read the book of Genesis for the first time. It was at a point in his life when he was struggling to build his bakery business and was barely surviving in his finances. As he read the first chapter of Genesis, he was awestruck by how creative God was when He created the world. He too, wanted that creativity and started to pray to ask God for it. 

As a child, Swens suffered from slight autism and was told by fortune tellers that he was “nothing but a dumb piece of rock”. Coming from a humble family background and having lost his parents at a tender age, Swens began working part time at the age of 10 in various odd jobs. At age 20, he became associated with baking through an apprenticeship in a bakery shop, without knowing anything about the trade. He left the trade after a year but returned when he was encouraged by friends who saw his potential.

Swens started a bakery with his wife, but life was hard. They earned only 500 Ringgit (approximately 100 euros) per month, which was hardly sufficient to sustain his family. At one point, he was unable to pay for the rent of his apartment and couldn’t purchase milk powder for his daughter. Swens started to look for quick ways to make money.

Swen’s wife, who became a follower of Jesus around that time, encouraged him to focus on improving his baking skills. She introduced the Christian faith to him and showed him the saving grace and true hope in life: Jesus Christ. Seeing no better options, he persevered in his business and learned about God.

"I prayed fervently, every day, while I continued to experiment with different baking techniques and recipes," shared Swens. "Nothing was improving but I did not give up, as it was my only hope left. I kept praying and asked God for help."

After waiting patiently for six months, Swens began to gain inspiration on how he could stand out from the crowd. Years of relentless effort led him to discover the secret of making the perfect icing, and so birthed his first-ever 3D-model cake. The popularity of his cakes climbed, and orders increased steadily. Swens and his cakes began to appear in numerous media reports and are now known widely in Penang.

He remains firm that none of his success would be possible without the inspirations and creativity that was given from God.

"My desire is not to grow the business as big as possible," explained Swens. "I just want to have a comfortable place where my family and I can create beautiful cakes together. For the rest of my time, I want to dedicate to helping in church and doing ministry."

Because of Swens’ perseverance in following Jesus, his life regained hope and light.

"Though I was told that I’m a dumb piece of rock with no future, God revealed to me that I was the precious stone hidden in the rock," said Swens with assurance. He never thought he would be capable of baking and designing such artistic cakes, but God gave him the talent to do so, and he has been telling people of God’s work in his life.

In 2011 when Logos Hope visited Penang, Swens became a port volunteer and worked on board as a baker. To welcome the ship’s arrival, Swens baked a giant cake—a replica of Logos Hope—which wowed crewmembers and local guests and was a highlight at the official opening. Swens explained that a cake that size would easily cost more than 10,000 Ringgit (approximately 2,100 Euros) if sold.

During his time as a volunteer, Swens not only learnt new things about baking, especially when it came to bread, but he also witnessed how people from different nations came together and prayed for other nations.

"I was touched by how people would care about another nation and its people living so far away from them," shared Swens. "Their love for others moved me and taught me something new."

When Logos Hope returned to Penang in 2015, Swens gifted the ship with another of his works of art—an exquisitely-designed cake consisting of a globe and a smaller replica of Logos Hope. He visited the ship many times during her stay in Penang and actively shared the hope he has found in his life with people he met. He also brought many friends to attend the on-board events.

Swens was impacted by the loving community on Logos Hope four years ago. Now he continues to ignite others’ passion, giving glory to God.

Please pray that Swens will continue to touch others’ lives through his story and bring hope to many. Pray too that the ministry of Logos Hope will make a difference in people’s lives in ports-of-call around the world.

For more information about the ministry of OM Ships, visit www.omships.org.

As part of the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme to develop more talent to support Nigeria’s large maritime industry, the four students are currently studying marine engineering in the University of Philippines for four years. Having only received theoretical knowledge so far, they have been seeking opportunities to get practical work experience that is needed for their studies.

They were unsure if Logos Hope could help in any way, but one of them had read about the “Crew for a Day” programme in the book fair and wondered if he could work in the engine room for a day. The students were connected with First Engineer Stefan Schomas (Germany), who learnt of their wish and decided to do what he could to help.

Stefan had originally joined the Ship Ministry as a 24-year-old man in the late 90s. Little had he expected that this experience would completely turn his life around. Having completed his apprenticeship as a car mechanic, Stefan joined one of OM’s previous ships, Logos II, and was posted to the engine room for two years. While in the engine room, he was inspired and supported by one of his peers and boss to become a marine engineer.

“He somehow saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself and gave me the confidence to take the step to study in a marine college in Germany,” recalled Stefan.

After Stefan left Logos II and studied marine engineering, he re-joined the ship in 2002 as a qualified marine engineer, starting off as third engineer and eventually becoming first engineer. In 2015, he faithfully answered God’s calling once again and joined Logos Hope, this time with his wife and three children.

“This is my heartbeat. When I saw the four students coming to me to seek opportunities for work experience, I was reminded of myself when I was young,” explained Stefan. “OM Ships carved my career and gave me the encouragement and support to become who I am today. This is why I really want to give back to others and help these students as much as I could.”

After discussing his ideas with the chief engineer and the captain, Stefan managed to arrange for the students to stay for a week on the ship. During this time they received two days of training and five days practice in watch keeping (monitoring the systems in the vessel’s engine room). Thereafter, the students continued to work in the engine room for a few days to help with day-to-day work.

One of the students, 22-year-old Duke Job, could hardly believe it when he found out about the arrangement. “I was so happy but I couldn’t shout, as there were many people around us in the dining room on the ship,” expressed Duke, with a half-laugh. “My classmates were holding my arm as they, too, tried to contain their excitement!”

During the five days of training, the students were assigned to shadow different watch keepers. The watch keepers of Logos Hope not only imparted their knowledge but also reinforced their own understanding at the same time and learnt how to train others. With a changeover of manpower on Logos Hope every six months, the ability to train others is vital.

“I really learnt a lot from the watch keepers. When they are doing something, they asked me if I know the reason why and explained patiently to me,” shared another student, 24-year-old John Omokete. “I now understand the real principles behind the machinery in the engine room and how it works.”

The result is a win-win situation, where both the students and Logos Hope watch keepers gained something.  

“We have nothing to lose but everything to gain,” said Stefan. “It’s a ministry in itself to connect with these students.”

He explained that he wants these students to also experience how people work together harmoniously on Logos Hope. Typically, in commercial sailing, there are many levels of hierarchy, and people at the top sometimes treat others badly. Stefan hopes that these students will be role models to others in the future and respect those who work below them.

“It’s the kindness that really touches me. You don’t get this anywhere else. It’s a very different situation on commercial ships,” said John. Through this experience, the four students have gained not only knowledge related to their profession, but their perspectives on life have been altered significantly as well.

For John, his life purpose has been transformed. “I have changed my mentality after talking to the people here on board. They told me that they want to use their life to serve in God’s ministry and help others. I realised I’m really selfish,” he reflected. “I used to think only about myself and wanted God to help me find a good job and earn good money.”

“Instead, the people here want to use their skills to serve others and serve God. Human investment is the most important thing, and Logos Hope is doing that. I hope someday I can do the same,” John concluded.

Another student, 24-year-old Festus Itimi, quoted a verse from the Bible: “To whom much is given, of much will be required” (Luke 12:48). Festus hopes to return to Logos Hope after he graduates to serve on board and make use of his skills to contribute to the lives of others and participate in spreading the Gospel.

In fact, all four students expressed interest in returning to Logos Hope after their studies to serve.

“I see love and unity all around this Ship. There is true joy and peace here. Just look around the dining room and you can see for yourself. I’m definitely coming back,” said Duke.

Their greatest gratitude is still towards Stefan, who constantly encouraged them and gave them advice, related to both work and personal matters, whenever he could. This experience was made possible because of his determination to help.

The heartbeat of First Engineer Stefan has opened the eyes of these students to recognise the truly important things in life. They may become the essential engineers that Logos Hope will need in the future, as vital to the Ship Ministry as the engineers needed currently. Stefan also has plans to engage other institutions in future ports-of-call to connect with other aspiring marine engineers and play a part in guiding their paths ahead.

Pray that the blessings that are passed on will keep multiplying and bear fruit for the glory of God in these lives and the many others who cross paths with the ministry of Logos Hope every day. 

For more information about the ministry of OM Ships, please visit www.omships.org.

During the Power Up Logos Hope project in Singapore, from October 2014 to February 2015, crew member Gaetan Caro (France) felt a special calling towards Little India, as he was working closely with foreign workers during the project at the Keppel Shipyard and desired to have a deeper understanding of this group of people.

When he was invited to join a group of medical students volunteering in Little India, Gaetan started to see the ministry before his eyes—an unhappy underclass in a wealthy country, dissatisfied with their lives and turning to vices to make up for their pain. The foreign workers come to Singapore, some for up to 15 years, leaving their family and friends behind to live in small quarters and perform tough, manual jobs. Despite the hardships, Gaetan saw the opportunity of them living in Singapore.

“I would never have been able to reach them where they come from, yet they are right here at my doorstep now, lonely and thirsty for fellowship. Many are struggling with their identity as foreign workers, and this is the best opportunity to reach out to them,” said Gaetan with joy, as he better understood their situation.

Gaetan’s desire for his limited time in Singapore was to connect with a few of the foreign workers—chat, play games and eventually relate to them on a deeper level, perhaps even share the Gospel. He didn’t know what he could do and where to start, so he turned to prayer. Every Sunday he visited Little India and prayed as he walked through the area. He prayed like he was building the kingdom of God, he declared God’s promises over the place—praying for the police as they saw them, praying over temples, streets, clinics, banks and everything in between.

Gaetan became more familiar with Little India and the people. He was invited to preach twice at a Tamil church event. However, the desire he had was not yet fulfilled—he has not developed a deeper relationship with any foreign workers. He had yet to become part of them.

Time passed, and it was in early February when Gaetan was introduced by a pastor to a special place in the heart of Little India—The Hope Centre. This place was the prayer of the pastor for 17 years. It was a place where foreign workers could rest and fellowship together with volunteers from the church. Drinks, games and free English and computer classes were offered.

“This was exactly the kind of place I had envisioned when my heart for Little India was first planted—a nice and comfortable place that I can invite the foreign workers to and connect with them. It was like an answered prayer!” said Gaetan, excitedly. 

On one of his usual prayer walks, Gaetan met a foreign worker, Murugesan, and talked with him. The man, who was suspicious of Gaetan at first, warmed up to him. Gaetan seized the opportunity and invited him to The Hope Centre. The duo quickly became friends through games. A foreign worker in his late 30s and a French volunteer in his late 20s, working on board a ship, spent their time moulding Play-Doh in the centre.

That afternoon Gaetan was on fire: He had made his first foreign worker friend in Little India after many months of prayer and preaching at the church. He prayed that this would be the first of many interactions and looked forward to more.

One day, Murugesan said he wanted to bring Gaetan somewhere. Little did Gaetan know, Murugesan invited him into his little corner of Little India, where his friends from his hometown were.

“Murugaysan brought me right into the middle of this group; what a privilege! I felt so blessed!” exclaimed Gaetan.

It was at that point that Gaetan connected on a much deeper level with the foreign workers. He was now a special guest, having got the privilege to be in their close-knit community. There, he shared about his life and pictures from his country. The foreign workers crowded around him to get a glimpse of his photos and listen to his stories. Finally, Gaetan’s heart desire was fulfilled.

Unfortunately, Gaetan didn’t have time subsequently to visit Little India often, since activities on the ship had resumed. Two weeks before the ship was due to leave Singapore, Gaetan visited The Hope Centre for the last time. He was not expecting much as he travelled to The Hope Centre, only to take a last look and say his goodbyes.

When he arrived, a sight greeted him that he won’t forget. The group of foreign workers he had connected with was there! Murugesan had brought everyone to The Hope Centre, and they had even signed up for the free computer and English classes. Through this, the pastors and volunteers at The Hope Centre would have chances to share God’s love with them.

“I felt peace in my heart to leave, because God has made the connections for the right people to follow up with them,” shared Gaetan.

Praise God for opening doors for Gaetan to connect with foreign workers in Singapore. Pray that they will come to know God through The Hope Centre.

The atmosphere of the service was filled with joy and gratefulness, for Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. The crew members found it heartwarming to have the whole Logos Hope family gathered together to celebrate this special day. As Captain Tom Dyer shared his message, the sun rose higher.

“As the sun rises, we worship a God who is risen and who is victorious!” affirmed Captain Tom.

He reminded the ship’s company that God is great and victorious, but also personal. Just like how He called out to Mary by name when He appeared to her outside the tomb, He knows each and every one of us, too. We don’t need to be anxious or struggle to be in control of our lives, because He is our hope.

“In Him, we have a great hope, a great reconciliation, a great future, a great commission and a great family together on board Logos Hope.” he concluded.

The service ended with a rendition of the song “Because He Lives." Through the song, the crew was reminded of the great hope Christians have in Jesus: "Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone."

“We have experienced God’s blessing in the financing, planning and implementation of this crucial project,” expressed OM Ships CEO Peter Nicoll (South Africa). “This gives us a more efficient and reliable platform for the ministry that God has called us to in the years to come.”

The three main aspects of the project have been the replacement of two of the vessel’s generators, replacing the main switchboard to be able to cope with the increased electrical load and installing a heat recovery system so that previously wasted heat energy of the exhaust can be used for heating fuel and oil. With much preparation work having previously taken place in the engine room by OM Ships crew, the main installation work was contracted out to the Keppel Shipyard in Singapore under the supervision of a 25-member technical team from OM Ships. 

The Power Up team has been led by Project Manager Matt Blair and OM Ships Marine Superintendent Elon Alva (both Australia). “We look back and see God’s protection and provision,” enthused Matt. “We’ve had people with the needed skills, good working relationships with the right people in the shipyard and the support we need.” The installation work involved taking the vessel out of the water and cutting holes in the ship side in order to allow the old equipment to be removed before new machinery and other equipment could be brought in. With work taking place in many parts of the vessel simultaneously, the Power Up team on board was kept extremely busy supervising the shipyard tasks as well as working on a number of other associated projects. The new systems are estimated to save around 300,000 Euros per year in operational costs.

This extended period of technical work has provided the opportunity for other major projects to take place, including replacing the alternator on a third generator, upgrading the bow thruster motor and controls (the system to enable easier maneuvering when in port), upgrading the cooling system for the main engines and the replacement of the floor in the galley (ship’s kitchen).

While the project was taking place, around 70 teams comprising 250 crewmembers spread out around the world to bring a message of hope in Jesus and demonstrate God’s love to many. Serving on land across six continents in 40 different countries, teams were involved in a wide variety of service projects and outreach efforts. From Brazil to Kazakhstan, Zambia to the Philippines these initiatives were done in partnership with local branches of the wider work of OM International as well as several other partner organisations in Asia with the goal to continue bringing knowledge, help and hope through the message of the Gospel.

In Uruguay, a visit to a prison and the personal testimony of one of the team members resulted in ten inmates deciding to follow Jesus. Meanwhile in South Africa, a crewmember on the team there challenged drug addicts to give up their habits and offered a Mexican meal if they would take a step in that direction. In Norway, a crewmember from Ecuador shared the message of God’s love with a fellow Spanish speaker who was feeling lost in a foreign land and in New Zealand a team challenged young people with difficult family situations to see the offer of love, acceptance and peace with God. 

Elsewhere, another team helped clean up homes and schools after severe flooding in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia while in Cambodia a team helped build a church in just three months in partnership with locals. These are just some of the many encounters that saw real change in lives and communities helped through practical outworking of God’s love.

This one-of-a-kind time in the ministry of OM Ships International was made possible by the generous support of partners all around the world who gave both financially and through gifts-in-kind, as well as price reductions from companies and suppliers. Many also joined in by praying regularly for the project. God’s protection and provision was clearly seen as this €8.2 million project was funded ahead of the work being started and it has now been completed on schedule.

As Logos Hope sails on to ports in South East Asia and then heads west towards the continent of Africa, funding is needed for the Fueling the Hope campaign to bring a message of hope to millions more in the coming years.

Gifts can be made online at www.omships.org/give or through the local OM office: www.om.org/contact

Incheon, a city of three million, was the home port of Sewol, the ferry that sank on 16 April 2014, which lost more than 290 lives and cast the country of South Korea into collective grief.

A Healing Concert on Logos Hope, organised by a local ministry, brought healing and increased the reception of the public to the ship visit with more visitors during the final days in port.

Joined together in Christ

One Sunday Logos Hope was also privileged to host 120 North Korean refugees, who attend a South Korean church, on board. Attending the “Open Ship”, these special guests got a taste of the different cultures on board.

“I was very happy to see the North Koreans sipping a British tea available in the European stand, singing a song together with the African drum, learning an American dance together, and the list goes on. But what touched me the most was the Gospel itself,” event organiser Samuel Driyanto (Indonesia) said.

One special feature was a worship dance, which told the story about a woman held captive by darkness but then freed by the light. To Christians who escaped North Korea, this dance was very powerful. “Some North Koreans repeatedly thanked the dancers, and some were crying when they saw the performance,” Samuel added.

One middle-aged woman shared with a crew member through tears about her two children she was forced to leave behind in North Korea. Around the room, crew members joined hands with their North Korean brothers and sisters and prayed a blessing over their lives and their families.

“The visit of 120 North Koreans was my highlight because most of them would never have a chance to see the world in one room and also to hear more about the power of the Gospel. Praise the Lord for what He has done in this occasion,” Samuel remarked.

Impulses for change

“In recent years [the churches] have seen a decline in people interested in mission and excited about ministry,” said Lindsay Lategan (South Africa), Incheon advance preparation team leader. He encouraged crew members, "Take the great opportunity you have to really challenge them and excite them for missions again.”

One such opportunity was an event titled Digital Generation that challenged youth to use social media wisely and as a great tool to share about God with their peers. Crew members explained their own experiences with social media, which coloured their social life, thought life and self-esteem. Ultimately this also affected their relationship with God.

These were stories many of the 180 youth and adults could relate to. “They told us stories about their pasts and now they are recognising their problems and [making] a decision [to choose] a more positive way,” said 16-year-old Soo Young, who attended with her youth group. “God says to me that I have used my time to do other things, but now I will spend more time with God praying or having a quiet time.”

Journey into faith

A young Korean man, Sang Yeop, was hiking from the North Korean border to Busan on the southern coast to forget the heartache of a broken relationship. His heavy footsteps led him through Seoul’s busy shopping district of Insadong one Friday morning. There, by God’s design, Sang Yeop encountered Logos Hope crew members who were sharing the Gospel.

Oliviana Tugui (Romania) and Bahaa* (North Africa) shared the life story of Jesus and how His personal sacrifice offers forgiveness of sins and new life for anyone willing to accept it. After listening with interest, Sang Yeop told them that he didn’t share their beliefs, but that his mother was a Christian. Oliviana was encouraged by his openness to the Gospel.

Two days later, the man contacted Bahaa by e-mail. “Yesterday I went to church,” the email read. As Bahaa spoke with him over the Internet, Sang Yeop shared how desperate and disappointed he was with life that day they met. His month-long hike to Busan was meant to clear his mind of his problems. Sang Yeop explained that he could feel God calling him through sending random people on the street to tell him about God. Then a few days later, a friend invited him to church.

“He decided to go [to church] and he gave his life to God,” Bahaa shared excitedly. As a result, Sang Yeop changed his career and moved to a new city to get an additional degree. “It amazed me that in this depression time he found God,” Bahaa added. “God changed his way of thinking and his life plan.”

New doors open

Over 130 years ago the Gospel first arrived in the port of Incheon on Easter Day. Other historic dates in Korean history are the 1907 revival in Pyongyang, which termed it the Jerusalem of the East, and the division of the country into North and South Korea in 1945.

Field leader of OM’s work in South Korea, Su Yong Gim, organised a visit of crew members to the Demilitarized Zone, a neutral zone between the two countries. As crew members visited a house of prayer and heard first-hand accounts of what is happening in North Korea, they joined in prayer for the nation. Logos Hope also presented a financial gift to a church to provide food for North Korean children.

Through the ship's stay in Incheon, new doors opened for OM Korea as they connected with church leaders and congregations who came on board. Please pray that Logos Hope’s visit has a lasting impact in communities and in the lives of locals throughout South Korea.

For more information about the ministry of Logos Hope, along with photos, stories, videos and details about how you can get involved, visit the website here.

*Name changed

Emma Lan, age 38, a Kaoshiung resident and local restaurant owner was welcomed on board by Director Lloyd Nicholas, Captain Chris Hughes and crewmembers in international dress.

“I feel very honored to be the four millionth visitor,” expressed Emma, who visited the ship with her children, mother, father and her sister after hearing about Logos Hope from an advertisement online. “This ship is very meaningful to me, as it brings much hope and resources to people around the world.” Emma was presented with a framed picture of the ship as well as a plaque and a gift voucher to spend in the book fair.

Taiwan is the 47th country visited by Logos Hope since her launch into active service for OM Ships five and a half years ago, and Kaohsiung is the second of three ports that are on the itinerary for this first-time visit to the island. Kaohsiung is the 78th unique port-of-call for the ship in that time.

Logos Hope Director Lloyd Nicholas expressed the significance of this special event. “We are thrilled to welcome and celebrate the four millionth visitor to Logos Hope,” he said. “That means four million people have experienced a moment of friendship, of happiness and of hope as they have come on board. Each one has walked through the ‘Journey of Life’ display, met a crewmember and encountered God’s grace and love for them. It is a timely reminder of why the Power Up Logos Hope project is so important. New generators and other equipment will help sustain the Ship Ministry. We look forward to welcoming many more millions in the years to come… and introducing each person to that moment of hope that can change their life.”

When the visit to Kaohsiung is completed on 25 September, the ship will then welcome visitors in Anping, Taiwan, for four days before she sails to Singapore to commence the technical installation phase of the Power Up Logos Hope project that is scheduled to be completed by the end of March 2015.

This significant work will see the replacement of two old, unreliable generators and the main electrical switchboard to match the increased electrical capacity. At the same time a heat recovery system will be installed to make use of previously wasted energy to provide domestic hot water and to preheat fuel oil. All combined, these upgrades will not only reduce maintenance, but also the amount of fuel required, bringing significant savings in ongoing operational costs. At the same time, work will be done to upgrade the bow thruster and engine-room cooling systems, as well as replacing the galley flooring. The required 2015 dry dock will also take place while the ship is out of service.

A small team of around 25 technical staff will remain in Singapore during this time to oversee the works being done by Keppel Shipyard. The project also provides a unique opportunity to extend Logos Hope’s ministry around the world. Over 250 of the crew and staff will be sent out in about 70 different teams to work alongside other OM ministries and partner organisations all over the globe, continuing to transform lives by bringing knowledge, help and hope.

The Power Up Logos Hope project is a significant investment in the vessel’s systems and machinery, made possible by the generosity of partners and supporters around the world, with over 7 million euros (about 9 million USD) already given, or promised. Further funding is needed to cover the costs for the additional work, the Singapore-based team and the international ministry teams.

This significant time in the history of Logos Hope will be foundational in preparing the vessel for many more years of service and the opportunity to welcome many more people on board in the years to come.

Having already sailed the equivalent of almost three times around the world since her purchase, Logos Hope has so far visited ports in northern Europe, the Caribbean, West and North Africa, the Near East, the Arabian Peninsula, South Asia and the Far East. After completing the Power Up Logos Hope project, the tentative schedule has Logos Hope in South East Asia for some months before making her way to Africa.

More details about the Power Up Logos Hope project are available on the OM Ships website at www.omships.org/powerup. 

A wave of change swept the nation. Stores once empty were now filled with goods, but people lacked money and Oliviana’s father fell into a deep depression after the revolution. The turmoil had moved from the nation to her own home. All she wanted was a safe haven.

This she found as a young teenager at a local church planted by a South Korean. “I knew that Jesus died on the cross but I didn’t know what that meant personally until I was 14,” Oliviana remembers. Over years of going to church and memorising verses from the Bible, the truths of God’s Word sunk into her heart. “Although I did not believe it [at first], after four years it really touched my heart,” Oliviana said.

As a young believer, Oliviana came on board Doulos, one of OM’s former vessels, in Constanța in 2003. “I was quite impressed as a new believer about what these people were doing,” said Oliviana. “I still remember sitting down with a South Korean girl and she shared about her life on board. Maybe that was one spark.”

Oliviana went on to study and later worked in the International School of Bucharest. There she actively shared her faith in Jesus with her co-workers, calling it her mission field. One day she looked up Doulos online. After learning the ship was retired she discovered sister ship, Logos Hope. As she read reports about ministry among women in Olongapo prison in the Philippines it touched something inside her. “As I was praying for them I felt that my heart was more changed and more touched,” she remarked. “I felt that God was knocking at the door of my heart that I should go.”

For three months Oliviana prayed to seek if this was God calling her or just her own plan. “I asked, ‘God can you show me more. I really want to know that it’s you and not just me,” she said. Then she read from Genesis 12:4, where God is calling Abraham out to go - “So Abraham left Haran just like the Lord said”. “As I was reading I felt my name was written there, that God was calling me to go.” That was one of many confirmations God had already given and Oliviana felt this was her calling. So she stepped out, joining Logos Hope in February 2013 in Cambodia for two years.

Initially Oliviana worked in the Hotel and Guest Services department, cleaning around the ship for eight hours a day. This brought a painful but good lesson in humility. She had to rely on God because many days the work was too much for her physically. “I learned to not trust in myself and what I can do and to not even trust in my own faith because maybe I had the wrong idea about God,” she said. “I had to readjust all my ideas about God, myself and my faith and also other people.” After 15 months she then began working in the International Café.

Ever since her life changed at 18, Oliviana could not keep to herself all that God has done for her. Her highlight of one such encounter was on a train visiting Kandy in Sri Lanka. Her friends were out for a casual tour when they met Chintaka, a 19-year-old Roman Catholic, who was on his way to a temple in search of his own idea of God. One crewmember shared with the young man that because Jesus died for him, God is right with him. “After we shared, he realised that God is seeking him and he recommitted his life to Christ,” Oliviana said. When the ship returned to Sri Lanka a few months later, the young man returned to the ship and Oliviana and others could encourage him in his faith.

She encourages others pursuing missions to “take time to ask God if this is what He wants you to do.” Oliviana knows that the confirmation God gave for her to join missions helped her stand firm in the difficulties. “Many times I just hung on to knowing that I was sure that God brought me here,” Oliviana said. “There were also times when I felt deserted in the middle of the sea, with the wind blowing against me and that I did not want to go on. Only by God’s grace I am still here.”

For Oliviana the two and a half months Logos Hope spent in South Korea held special significance. In Busan, the second of four ports, Oliviana was able to meet the pastor of her church, Rev Hong Key Chung and his wife again, who have been serving for 22 years in Romania. “It’s very interesting that the Gospel came to me first indirectly through South Korean missionaries. As I grew up and reached my university years they had a great impact in my life,” Oliviana remembers.

And in a way only God can do, He opened the doors and steered the ship back to Subic Bay in May 2013 so that Oliviana could meet the women at Olongapo prison whose testimonies inspired her to join. “I could go to Olongapo and see the women that I had prayed for!” she said. “I didn’t feel like I was in a prison. I felt the most amazing freedom in Christ. I felt a church that is vibrant, that is alive in Olongapo prison.”

Oliviana’s commitment finishes in February 2015. As a natural planner she is surprised at the peace she feels about the uncertainty of the future. “This only happens because these one and a half years of living by faith on board have really given me a faith. Maybe now it is that faith that tells me I shouldn’t worry.”

“I wanted to join after high school but my mom said I needed to study first,” Sam said. He didn’t understand why then, but now he sees how it would be difficult to return home to study if God called him to serve overseas after his time on board. At university Sam studied to become a veterinarian and kept himself busy with youth ministry, weekly service as an Emergency Medical Technician and as a musician. 

Sam was surrounded with Christian friends and influences his whole life. At university this changed. “I met bad influences and went down that path. Then I realised that most of what I knew about God was in my head, but that I was not really living it,” he admitted.

One day Sam heard a pastor share that it doesn’t matter how far you think you are from God, He never judges people for trying to come back to Him. “The speaker’s words really helped me. So I found a close Christian friend and we started praying and reading the Bible together almost daily. That’s how I came out of that time,” Sam said.

As he prayed about his future in missions, he applied to join Logos Hope. His dream finally came true as he stepped on board in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in September 2013. “My parents both were proud and my dad was so excited. He told me all the stories I already knew,” Sam said with a laugh. 

His culture and experience with OM in Mexico made it easy to adapt to life on Logos Hope where circumstances often change. “For me it was not a struggle because I knew what OM was like and I know about the ships.” Sam said. “Maybe my experience was even more than I expected because of all my dad’s stories and how back then all the rules were a little tougher.” 

Sam started working in the book fair and took on more and more responsibility. Now, as a shift leader, he is responsible to lead a team of crewmembers. Coming from a people-oriented culture, Sam was challenged to learn to be more task-oriented. “It’s been nice to learn how to have that balance between taking care of people and the things you have to do to make the job work,” he said.

A speaker’s question shared in devotions stuck with Sam: “Are you working for God or with God?” This question brought a shift in the focus of his work. “My attitude changed from just working because I had to. I was relying more on what I could do for God instead what I could do with God working through me,” Sam said. “Now I am praying more for little things and for God to help me make good decisions throughout the day.”

His best experience on Logos Hope is the friendships he has made. “It’s so nice to have really close people that you can talk to and open your heart to. It’s such a strong bond you make,” Sam said. “I’ve seen it with my dad, how even after the years, his friends come together and it’s like they have only been apart for a few days. I know that when I see some of these people after many years it’s going to be the same.”

Though he has more than a year left on board, Sam is looking for opportunities to do youth ministry or return to missions for his future. “I would love to come back to the ship. I feel comfortable and it’s a very useful ministry tool.”

His advice for those wanting to join Logos Hope? “Just be available and always remember that you are responsible for your obedience to God but not for the results,” Sam encouraged others. “Don’t ever limit God to your own dreams. So often we pray for something small when God is planning something so great for us.”

Caleb’s journey began in a small town of Manitoba, a Canadian province. His parents worked among the indigenous people in Canada. Caleb grew up not only surrounded by forests and lakes, but also in a Christian environment that taught him about God’s incredible love. One night, six-year-old Caleb prayed to accept Christ as his Saviour. From there, growing in his friendship with God was a steady process.

In his teens, Caleb’s parents moved to Saskatchewan province to work at a Bible camp. “Bible camp started to be significant factor in my life,” he said. At 14, he attended the Higher Challenge Wilderness Adventure, which is focused on indigenous youth. Later when he was 17, Caleb returned to the camp as a junior leader.

As Caleb and his older brother Alden grew up, they dreamed of joining one of OM’s ships together. Alden wrote to OM Canada for more information. “He read it, but when I got it I was really excited. I just knew I wanted to join Doulos,” Caleb said. “I worked in construction to save up money. It was neat to see how God provided the finances.”

When Caleb joined Doulos in August 2006 in Thailand he worked in the deck department. Later he worked as a carpenter. On board he met Katharina, a dark-haired girl from Germany. “She should have left when I joined but she extended for four months,” Caleb remembered. After one year on board, Caleb and Katharina began dating long-distance. In August 2008, Caleb finished his commitment on Doulos. A year later the two became engaged and married in 2010 after Katharina finished her studies. During that time Caleb did a carpentry apprenticeship.

Two years later, Katharina started dreaming about serving on Logos Hope with people from Doulos. “This kept happening. God was speaking to us about joining through that,” Caleb said. They had imagined working in missions together and this was the next step. “Even though not everything fell into place easily, God kept opening doors when obstacles kept coming. So we knew that’s where He wanted us,” Caleb said.

When they joined in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Caleb was surprised to learn that he would work in the book fair, as he had come to work as a carpenter. “The feelings of it made us want to pack our bags and go home, but God worked through it,” he remembered. In the book fair, Caleb could use his skills in some carpentry projects. After six months, Caleb began work as a carpenter in the maintenance team. 

Carpentry skills are also valuable for practical work on shore. In Colombo, Sri Lanka, Caleb and a team helped to fix up a camp facility as a reconciliation centre between Tamils and Sinhalese who were fighting during the civil war. In Galle, Caleb and a team constructed concrete pillars over two days to lay the foundation for a church. “You wish you could help for two months,” Caleb said.  “Helping local people do building projects is something I really enjoy. I think there is definitely not a shortage of practical work projects that can be helped in each country that we go to.”

Arriving in the cooler climate of Japan in May 2014 was, for Caleb, a breath of fresh air – literally. “You start missing 'normal' temperature after so long in the heat,” he said. Caleb and Katharina enjoyed nature in Japan, good connections with visitors and the historic WWII memorial in Nagasaki. Caleb’s parents also visited in Kanazawa, Japan, which was a special time to work and rest together.

The transition to Logos Hope brought challenges, coming with the memory of Doulos. But these experiences have shaped both his and Katharina’s character. “There are challenges, but we don’t have to be defeated by them, so my word of advice is not to expect something perfect,” Caleb said.

Being faithful to the task at the moment is one way Caleb has learned to respond. “My encouragement is to persevere and see that God still wants to and still is using you and the ship to accomplish His purposes, even if I feel things are going wrong.”

While on board Caleb has grown to understand that it is the object of his faith (God), rather than the amount, is what is important. Another practical skill he has learned has been welding. “Since I was young, I wanted to learn welding. On Doulos I never took the chance,” he said. During his first dry dock on Logos Hope, an Australian project worker taught Caleb. “That was like a dream come true to finally learn welding,” he said.

During this year’s Power Up Logos Hope project, Caleb and Katharina will work with OM in Germany to make renovations to their building. Afterwards they will move back to Canada. Though unsure about the future, they are open to God’s leading. With their belongings in a trailer, they can set off to wherever God leads next.

“When I first came to Doulos I was really excited. Come to the ship expecting God to do something in your life,” Caleb encourages others. “The ship is a great place and there are many opportunities to learn and develop in your life.”

“We rejoice in God’s ongoing provision for His Ship Ministry!” said OM Ships International CEO Peter Nicoll. “We are humbled by His faithfulness throughout the history of this organisation over more than 40 years. It is our privilege to be stewards of this transformational endeavour in partnership with so many around the world.”

Having sailed the equivalent of 2.7 times around the world since her launch, Logos Hope has made 87 port visits in 48 countries and territories. Beginning in northern Europe, Logos Hope has visited ports in the Caribbean, West and North Africa, the Near East, the Arabian Peninsula, South Asia and the Far East.

God’s provision extends beyond the practical realities of financial and personnel needs. In 2011, Logos Hope was able to visit ports in Libya and Egypt just weeks before the effects of the Arab Spring were felt there. The visit of Logos Hope to several ports in the Arabian Peninsula at the end of 2013 was a remarkable opportunity to bring knowledge, help and hope to a region still in the process of change.

In January 2014, the first-ever visit of an OM ship to Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, highlighted the ongoing interest in the world’s largest floating book fair, with 73,783 people coming aboard in the short five-day visit. A new record for Logos Hope was set with 18,634 visitors in one day. For people who suffered so much in civil war and then had their lives devastated by the 2004 tsunami, the ship visit was a symbol of hope and freedom.

But these life-transforming opportunities don’t come without perseverance through difficulties and the experience of God’s grace. Launching the ship five years ago was the result of a massive undertaking to buy and renovate a 35-year-old passenger and car ferry into a ship that would bring knowledge, help and hope to the people of the world.

The Logos Hope Project was OM’s largest project ever, both financially and in terms of its scope. God’s hand was clearly seen by the team tasked with realising the vision of a ship that would provide a platform to “reach everyone in a million” – alluding to the one million visitors per year on average that OM Ships has hosted on board it’s vessels over the past 43 years.

“As the director for the Logos Hope Project I experienced God at work over and over again. It was only through His enabling and the participation of thousands of volunteers and partners that we saw the ship launched into ministry service,” recounts Logos Hope’s current Managing Director Lloyd Nicholas.

“Since the launch, we have experienced God’s amazing grace every day. There are more opportunities for a ship-based ministry today than ever before. Even so, recruiting personnel, especially qualified maritime crew is an ongoing challenge. Likewise, the sobering realities of fuel costs, maritime regulations, changing social environments and limited resources are sometimes overwhelming. Nevertheless, we are reminded that the Lord is faithful, and we continue to hope in Him.”

As the ministry passes this milestone, a look back over the past five years gives much to celebrate, and many more opportunities to see God’s provision as the ship sails into the future. Towards the end of 2014, the installation phase of the Power Up Logos Hope Project will begin – replacing two generators and the main electrical switchboard, as well as installing a heat recovery system. These measures will make the ship more energy efficient and provide a stronger platform for ministry for many years to come. After a terrific response from partners around the world, financial backing for the project is in a very strong position.

The two new generators are presently in storage awaiting shipment to the vessel and work is ongoing to confirm the most suitable shipyard, plan the work and organise opportunities for teams that will serve on shore during this time.

Once the project is complete, the ship will be ready to continue her voyage of hope with many more ports in Asia, Africa, South America and the Caribbean anticipated in the coming years.

For latest news, further information, port schedules and opportunities to participate visit www.omships.org.

"I was happy enough to grow up with such a different background. Most of my friends were Third Culture Kids like me, and almost every year I went to TeenStreet. But one year I heard something that really spoke to me personally. I knew God was calling me specifically to the ship ministry. 

"I finished high school and then studied multimedia communications. When I came to the point of either specialising, going to work or doing something else, God put the ship on my heart again. As soon as I said I'd go I had a sense of peace, and all the doors opened."

Madeleine went up the gangway of the Logos Hope in Penang, Malaysia, in September 2011, and found herself working in the pantry first, then the bakery! But after breaking her thumb in a mixer she later transferred to the ship's book fair. After finishing a stint there she was asked to become the on-shore events coordinator, arranging teams for churches, schools and other programmes.

"It's challenging and stressful, but I love it!" she enthuses. "Recently, in Cambodia, we had an intense medical outreach with a doctor, dentist and eyeglass testing. I've learnt that there's one prayer God always answers—when you ask Him to be challenged!"

Among those challenges was taking part in three longer ministry teams on land in the Philippines, where she was even able to pick up some of the language, and one team in Taiwan. During the ship’s April dry dock she worked with a Youth With A Mission team in Hong Kong.

"I would encourage other young people to come to the ship," she affirms, "but for the right reasons. It's like a new beginning because nobody knows you. I make so many mistakes, but God picks me up every time." 

Madeleine is committed to stay on the Logos Hope until September 2013 and probably wouldn't extend that time for much longer. "I don't know what a 'normal' life is," she smiles, "but I would like a more stable ministry in the future!"

As Helen (Slack) Eby, a key organiser, told the group: "We all went through a rough spot 25 years ago—and we've all been through rough spots since, some worse than the shipwreck. But I think this is a place and time for healing because we know we can trust each other. We're also here to celebrate the faithfulness of God."

Mark Knight from the UK, who continues to serve with the Ship Ministry, remarked that he was surprised at how the reunion had served to "close the circle" for many, even though so many years have passed since the abrupt end of their floating home. "People came with expectancy and the Holy Spirit met with a number of us. God did a beautiful work."

Former Captain Jonathan Stewart, also from the UK, admitted he was unsure if he should attend. "But if there was healing going on, I wanted to be there," he said. "I needed healing too. A line has now been drawn; I feel from this moment on the whole memory has been laid to rest. I feel a tremendous sense of peace and relief."

So did Lissette, originally from Guatemala and who later married shipmate Michael Jensen of Denmark. She relates, "In June God told me that He was going to restore things that are broken. Logos had been my home, my family; it was the best time of my life--and because of the shipwreck I didn't have time to say goodbye. With this reunion I have recovered my joy. I've cried too, because it's been a healing process. But I found Logos again--in each of us."

Indian engineer Elon Alva, now OM Ships Marine Superintendent based in Australia, was the last man off the ship after it hit the rocks. He told of his emotion as he watched the Logos flag lowered for the last time. "I vowed that day that I would spend my life for things that were important for eternity," he said, and kept his promise. So have an unusually high percentage of the former crew. Many are still actively serving God in foreign countries or their home churches, and for some, missionaries in places like Angola, Kazakhstan, Portugal and Paraguay, it was the reason they could not make it to the Logos Rocks event. Six people, including Chief Engineer Dave Thomas, are already in heaven. Former Purser Stan Thomson, also loved by all but unable to attend in person because of poor health, blessed the gathering through a live telephone call.

For Vera Montanine from Brazil, the best thing about the gathering was that it helped rekindle her vision for the world. "Back home it's a lonely place; people look through you when you talk about missions. It's so easy to become cold. At this reunion we speak the same language! It came at a perfect time."

The reunited ship family enjoyed a barbecue, walks by the river, messages by leaders Dale Rhoton and Manfred Schaller, and a Rock Around the Dock night emceed by former Logos Director Graham Wells and musicians Tom Jarrett and Spurgeon Lange. The sharing of video and photo memories, personal stories and humorous incidents from that January 1988 "night to remember" evoked plenty of laughter and tears. The group also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the way their ship experience equipped them to face life--and death--in the years that followed. The weekend was a reconnection with dear friends and recommitment to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Another reunion like this one is unlikely to occur this side of eternity. But as all the "survivors" joined hands and voices for the final song, there was a sweet sense of affirmation. “And friends are friends forever/ If the Lord's the Lord of them…Though it's hard to let you go/In the Father's hands we know/That a lifetime's not too long/ To live as friends.”*

*Friends are Friends Forever lyrics by Michael W. Smith

The second port of call, Puerto Princesa, will be the fifth port Logos Hope has visited in the Philippines after stops in Cebu, Manila and Subic Bay in 2012.

While many of the crew stayed on board to complete technical works during the time in Hong Kong, many others moved on shore to work locally or in surrounding nations. In total, 22 teams were sent out from the ship to 10 different countries including South Korea, Japan and China, as well as the United Kingdom and United States.

“We are grateful for a safe and reliable ship. However, it is the people who express the hope of transformation in the communities we visit,” explained Peter Nicoll, CEO of OM Ships. “We are also dependent on the prayers and financial support of Christians from around the world.”

As in previous dry dock times, crewmembers were joined by numerous project workers. These short-term helpers volunteered their expertise in a variety of areas to work alongside the ship’s technical staff on the many projects around the ship. At the same time, the professional team of the Yiu Lian Dockyards focused on the significant work required to do the five-year survey on the propellers and rudders, amongst other works.

A significant accomplishment was the correction of the controllable pitch system for the propellers, which had been installed incorrectly during the refit of the vessel seven years ago. This fix was only made possible by the help of a Danish service technician who had experience with the uncommon system in place on Logos Hope.

“I see this as a provision from God as the service technician ‘happened’ to have experience with this particular type of controllable pitch system,” explained Elon Alva, marine superintendent for OM Ships. “There are only a few of this particular type still in operation worldwide!”

Meanwhile, there were also many stories of God at work through the various teams from the ship visiting communities on shore around Asia and beyond. In nearby Macau, SAR China, Emrae Corpuz (Philippines) met a Thai boxing coach while sharing the message of hope in Jesus with people on the streets. Despite the language barrier, Emrae shared her faith with the man and put him in contact with a local church. Many others were also presented with the gospel message, and around 1,000 Chinese Bibles were distributed in this region renowned for its gambling.

"Continue to pray God will plant His seeds in the hearts of the people," said Emrae. "Pray that there will be a fresh wind blowing in Macau."

On hearing the experiences of crewmembers during this time, Logos Hope Director Lloyd Nicholas said, "Each one has experienced God in different ways, thankful for wonderful hospitality, seeing people connected with God and going through challenging situations realising, “...If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing’ (John 15:5*)."

The community on board Logos Hope looks forward to returning to the Philippines where it is expected that many more thousands of Filipinos will make the most of the quality literature available at a fraction of its retail value on board Logos Hope, commonly known as the “the world’s largest floating book fair”.

The revenue generated by literature sales is a key element of the financial sustainability of this not-for-profit entity. However, with the current expenses of the dry dock work, OM Ships is facing a significant financial need of around 400,000 Euros in expenses anticipated over the next weeks.

Donations to help keep Logos Hope sailing into the future are gratefully received online at www.omships.org/donate or via local offices: www.omships.org/contactus. For a video overview of the work done during this dry dock, visit http://www.logoshope.tv/video/66125107.

*Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Used by permission.

Tall, attractive Marita, from Finland, was just the woman he had been looking for—although it took her a while to agree! Karel finished his commitment and went home, planning to get more sea experience for an engineering ticket, then volunteered to help bring the newly purchased Logos II to Amsterdam for renovation. He and Marita married in 1990 and lived in the Netherlands, Karel working in technical sales while Marita studied for a degree in psychology and teaching.

In 2000 they felt God calling them to Finland, so they moved there with their two daughters and Marita finished her studies there. Life was intense, but good. Karel was teaching, doing a wooden boatbuilding project with youngsters and renovating an old Finnish house, as well as starting on a master’s degree in business. Marita enjoyed teaching at a private Christian school. Their son, Jan-Micheil, whom they call "a child of prayer and promise", was born to them in 2007.

Little did the couple expect that God would take them back to sea at this stage in life!

"I was looking at the ship website one day and saw they desperately needed engineers," explains Karel. "I got in touch, since I had once qualified as a chief engineer and still had a second engineer's ticket. Ten months later we moved to Logos Hope.” They used the time to prepare, make presentations to churches in both countries, and update Karel’s certificates.

"We joined the ship in the Philippines in June 2013, the anniversary of our marriage," Marita continues, smiling. "It was also exactly 24 years since I had left Doulos in the Philippines. I was so happy. It felt like holy ground! We had some doubts about the move, of course, but we knew it was God's will for us to be on board."

The Knevel's older daughters, Miriam and Hanna, had their own lives by this time but both were committed Christians and happy at their parents' decision. Hanna had even participated in a three-month short-term exposure programme (STEP) on Logos Hope.

"They were our first supporters!" affirm Karel and Marita. "When we were hesitating about coming to the ship, they said, 'Go!' That made it easier for us."

Besides looking after six-year-old Jan-Michiel, Marita helps in the ship's library and takes part in various evangelism and aid projects, such as the Dress-a-Girl-Around-the World distribution in Cambodia. "I want to take good care of our boy and our marriage, but I'm not as tired as I was, teaching full-time in Finland. I can mentor or counsel some of the young women on board and I'm also involved in conferences."

Aware that her former students in the Christian school are praying for them, Marita keeps up a creative blog about ship life in Finnish, from a child's point of view. She hopes to do the same for Dutch children as well.

While Karel admits he doesn't see himself as a typical engineer, he knows his skills are greatly needed. "But," he adds, "I am also very involved with people. So I can support young people in the engine room who might be struggling. I have a passion for that." 

During the six weeks that Karel is involved in the Hong Kong dry dock this April, Marita and Jan-Michiel will spend time in the Netherlands and Finland, updating and sharing vision with churches. Of course, they look forward to linking up once more with Hanna and Miriam.

The Knevels would like to continue serving on board Logos Hope for as long as the Lord makes it possible, through the support of His people.

"There are so many possibilities for serving in the Ship Ministry," they say. "We love seeing young people come to the ship and flourish. Something wonderful happens in every port!"

For just over two weeks, the gangways of the ship were open to the public of Cambodia in the port city of Sihanoukville. In this time 32,198 local people came aboard to gain access to quality literature in the floating book fair that Logos Hope is best known for and to interact with the volunteer crew and staff who represent over 45 different nationalities.

This is the norm for every port visit that Logos Hope makes. But in Cambodia, where over 54 per cent of the population is under the age of 25 and 30 per cent live on 1.25 US dollars per day or less, the opportunity to also bring practical help and a message of hope is enormous.

To this end, OM Ships partnered with Dress a Girl Around the World, a ministry of Arizona-based Hope 4 Women International, on a project to bring 10,000 dresses for the girls and women of Cambodia. These dresses are sewn by volunteers around the USA and then given out in countries around the world not only as a special gift but also as a form of protection against child abuse. The organisation has reason to believe that a simple dress, delivered in the name of Jesus, can discourage those who seek to kidnap and traffic young girls in countries such as Cambodia.

In all, over 14,000 dresses were made and delivered to Logos Hope. A team of ladies who travelled to the ship from the USA, in partnership with crew and staff of Logos Hope, personally gave out several thousand dresses in a week with many more provided for distribution beyond the ship’s visit.

Rachel Eggum Cinader, Founding President of Hope 4 Women International and its Dress a Girl Around the World programme, was thrilled by the opportunities through partnering with Logos Hope: “We had one huge outreach in which we gave out about 2,000 dresses. Many of the ship’s company were on hand to help—they were awesome—with the men keeping order and loading and unloading dresses while women were dressing the girls. We could never have given out that many dresses without their help!”

The outreach went beyond simply giving away dresses, as Rachel highlights: “[The ship women] were so great with the girls—praying over each one—telling them they were beautiful and that God loves them! That would not have happened without their participation. Thanks to the ship there are 10,000 dresses now in Cambodia!” she adds. “I've been on many dress distributions but I would have to say that staying on the ship and distributing with OM has been one of the highlights of my life.”

Dr David Jeremiah, Founder of Turning Point Ministries and Senior Pastor at Shadow Mountain Community Church in San Diego, helped the Hope 4 Women International team spread God’s love on their trip to Cambodia by donating wristbands with a message of God’s love that turned out to be a huge hit with both the kids and adults.

After writing the book God Loves You: He Always Has, He Always Will last year, Dr Jeremiah set a goal to reach as many people as possible with this simple message. He graciously gave 1,200 silicone bracelets bearing this clear message, to deliver to the villages, orphanages, schools and towns in Cambodia.

“The bracelets have brought smile after smile to their recipients, and the message on their wrists is a constant reminder, each day, that God truly does love them...eternally,” explains Rachel.

In addition, Logos Hope crew and staff worked together with local groups and medical professionals who volunteered their time to provide compassionate help in the form of medical, dental and eye testing clinics, attending to the needs of over 3,000 people. Water purification systems were distributed and libraries set up, while other simple acts of kindness left a lasting impression on individuals and whole communities.

The departure from Sihanoukville, Cambodia, on Tuesday also marked the four-year anniversary of Logos Hope’s ministry. Since 19 February 2009, the ship has visited over 40 countries in Europe, the Caribbean, West Africa, the Mediterranean, the Arabian Gulf, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Hong Kong before Cambodia, welcoming over 2.8 million visitors on board.

To see video updates of the ministry of Logos Hope in action, please visit www.logoshope.tv. For latest news, further information, port schedules and opportunities to participate visit www.omships.org.

Subic Bay, Philippines: OM Ships International’s vessel Logos Hope has set sail from the Philippines for Hong Kong, SAR China, following eight months of maintenance and technical upgrades to engine room systems.

“We rejoice in another milestone moment for OM Ships as Logos Hope sails out of Subic Bay,” said Peter Nicoll, CEO of OM Ships. “We thank God for the team who so faithfully worked through this period and for the protection and provision we experienced on board.”

Crewmembers were joined by many volunteer workers who served from two weeks or longer in the various projects, including refurbishing the ship’s main engine fuel system and the lube oil purifiers. Work was also done in the tanks and on electrical installations associated with the fuel and water systems being rebuilt.

“Thank you to all those who prayed faithfully and gave sacrificially to make these works possible,” stated Marine Superintendent for OM Ships Elon Alva. “This has been a team effort, and we are confident that the ship systems worked on will be more reliable, safe and efficient.”

From the time the ship entered dry dock in April, over 70 teams were sent out in six phases to serve in communities across the Philippines. Donating water filters, completing building projects and facilitating Bible studies for adults and children allowed crewmembers to reflect a hope in Christ with those they met, while also meeting people's physical and spiritual needs.

As the technical works continued on in Subic Bay, crewmembers took initiative to build deeper relationships with locals, something not often possible with the ship typically in port for three weeks at a time. Through showing the Jesus Film to shipyard workers, distributing Gospel literature on the streets, sharing the message of hope with women working as prostitutes in local bars, and leading Zumba dance lessons in the local mall, crewmembers lived out their faith and communicated God’s love to those they met. Many were also given a portion of God’s Word or a Bible in their own language.

The community on board Logos Hope looks forward to a Christmas visit to Hong Kong and the opportunities ahead in South East Asia in 2013.

“Although this upgrading and maintenance of engine room systems has taken far longer than we anticipated, we believe it will stand us in good stead for years to come,” Peter Nicoll continued. “We also believe it will make the task of our engineers easier and pray that this will also lead to longer-term commitments from competent engineers.”

As Logos Hope prepares for ministry in 2013, pray for effective strategies to recruit and develop engineers for the future. Pray also for long-term engineering staff to provide stability and continuity in the engine room. For more information on Logos Hope’s engineering needs, go to www.omships.org/engineers. To find out more about the ministry of OM Ships, visit www.omships.org.  

OM: You lead a department with many teams and leaders. What’s your leadership style?

I give my team leaders boundaries and allow them to lead their teams. For most of them, that works. If it doesn’t, we meet to monitor progress and how they’re doing personally. We meet individually for an hour each week to talk about their role, the challenges and the direction of their team. We also meet together as a department weekly to share about what is happening on the teams.

OM: How do you find leading a team from all over the world?

Seelan: It’s a challenge, because they bring different views. Leading people from the same culture is already challenging, because each person has an opinion about how things should be done. On a cross-cultural team, each person adds his/her cultural perspective and worldview as well.

My role is to coach them in leadership. Some do exceedingly well in one area and not so well in others. The idea is to bring out the best in everyone, not allowing one to dominate because of their particular worldview.

OM: What are the challenges of cross-cultural leadership?

Seelan: How do you help people differentiate between personal opinion and objectivity? Everyone comes with his or her own cultural lens. The reality, especially in a cross-cultural context, is that the one that speaks the loudest gets heard. In some cultures this is natural, but in other cultures it’s not.

Generally, Western societies look for high efficiency and effectiveness, while other cultures want to build relationships by talking together. When we understand the context, we can create an environment with a sense of trust and freedom to speak. This is important.

I want to engage everyone so that each has an opportunity to share. I’m not necessarily looking for the right answer; instead, I want people to participate and be committed to whatever we decide, even if it’s not something one culture in particular would have decided. Without commitment in the group, there’s no motivation.

OM: What have you learnt about yourself through this?

Seelan: I thought I was incredibly relational. But I realise that if I’m not careful, the task can dominate. Moving from port to port brings certain deadlines. Unless I stop to regain balance, the task can dominate and I can start to see people as mere workers. This is when it becomes dangerous.

Nehemiah is a tremendous example. In the last verse of chapter 1, he says, “I was cupbearer to the king.” How did Nehemiah become the cupbearer? He was a marginalised Jew and probably a young boy when he came to the palace. Most likely, he did menial work in the courtyards. How did he become the one closest to the king?

It must have been his faithfulness to what God had called him to do. The thought I live by is: Bloom where you’re planted. Wherever I am, I have an opportunity to impact the lives of people around me for God. I cannot be in a dynamic relationship with the Creator of the universe and not impact those around me. Whether in leadership or not, it’s more important that someone recognises that the God I’m in love with is alive.

OM: Can you share a favourite experience since joining the ship ministry?

Seelan: It was the first time I had the privilege of seeing someone come to Jesus. I had just joined the ship in Australia. He was a drug addict I invited from the street to have lunch with me in the dining room. After a few meetings, we talked about Christianity. I asked him if he wanted to know Jesus. He said, “Yes”. That, for me, is why we exist.

Seelen comes from a Hindu background and accepted Christ at age 14 after accompanying his sister to a local Sunday school. He and his wife, Carlien, also from South Africa, joined OM as singles in 1998, before he joined the OM ship ministry in 1999. They married in 2004 and worked with OM South Africa before re-joining the ship ministry in 2005. The couple has a four-year-old daughter and enjoys living in the ship community of more than 45 nationalities.

On 13 April, the vessel entered the dry dock for annual maintenance, including servicing of lifeboats and cleaning and repainting the ship’s hull. Yet surveys done in the dock revealed urgent steel work needing attention, which caused significant delays.

Additionally, much preparation for the Power Up Logos Hope project has been taking place. This vital project involves replacing two older generators and the main switchboard and installing a heat recovery system, now scheduled for early 2014.

“We are thankful to God that the re-floating took place without incident,” said Elon Alva, OM Ships marine superintendent. “The next goal is to get all the systems that have been overhauled operational again. The final milestone will be to complete necessary surveys and ensure our personnel are trained and familiarised with the equipment so that the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate can be re-issued.”

The work of the all-volunteer crew on board has been significantly boosted by over 90 “project workers”. These individuals from around the world have chosen to also give their technical skills and time, some for a week or two, others for longer, to help the projects proceed. More plumbers and electricians are still urgently needed to finish the long list of outstanding tasks.

“An important milestone has been reached with the ship back in the water. Our attention is now fixed on completing the work,” said Logos Hope Director Lloyd Nicholas. “We see the greater purpose of these efforts and look forward to a stronger and sustainable ship-based service over the next 20 years.”

While the ship has been closed to the public during this time of dry dock, over 60 teams of Logos Hope staff and crew spread out across the Philippines in five phases seeking to make a tangible difference in local communities. Working with churches, these teams have set up libraries, treated patients in free clinics, facilitated HIV and AIDS training, and led programmes for children and youth.

One Logos Hope team participated in a project to re-house 12 families who lived on the streets of Manila. Donated funds from the ship community covered relocation costs. As well as joining in the construction work, the team installed water purifiers to provide clean water for the community, all helping to build a better future for these families.

“We are deeply grateful for partners around the world whose faithful support enables these works to be completed, equipping Logos Hope for the future,” said Lloyd Nicholas.

Once Logos Hope sails from the Philippines, the community on board anticipates an exciting schedule of port visits including Thailand, Cambodia and Hong Kong over the coming months.

For latest news, further information, port schedules and opportunities to participate visit www.omships.org.

Watch the Video Here:

http://logoshope.tv/video/46862227 

In 1995 when Doulos took port in the small island of Mauritius, located about 900 kilometres east of Madagascar, the life of Lisette Williams was changed forever.

“I looked at my friend and said, ‘I’ve been in that place,’” recalls Lisette, referring to the ship. “When I was eight I had a vision of the ship—a dream of it; there were many people from many countries.”

And at that moment, Lisette knew she was exactly where God wanted her to be.

The island of 1.3 million offers a unique blend of the Indian, Chinese, African and English cultures. Not surprisingly, this mix also gives rise to many different religions among the people.

Chinese-Buddhism, many types of Hindu beliefs, Islam, Catholicism and Christianity are all present in the lives of Mauritians, and although raised in a Christian home, Lisette was never really encouraged to leave the island to share Jesus with others.

However, as the then 18-year-old served as a port volunteer with Doulos, she was challenged by an OM crew worker who asked if she had really committed her life to the Lord.

“That really puzzled me, and after the ship left I decided I would like to make a commitment with all my heart,” Lisette says.

With a desire to walk firmly in the Lord, Lisette was baptised and responded to the call to “go” by joining the OM Ships ministry in 1999.

While enduring five years of seasickness, Lisette found her passion in hospitality. Also on board the ship was David Williams, from Northern Ireland, who shared the same heart for hospitality and the Ship Ministry. In 2005, David and Lisette were married.

After two years living in Northern Ireland, followed by two years back on Doulos, the Williams joined OM’s international offices in the UK.

The couple arrived in June 2010 so David could study for an upgrade in his current engineer’s license, which would make him a first engineer upon return to the ship ministry.

Since then, Lisette has served as the team life administrator, doing practical work such as arranging accommodation for team members, planning special events and overseeing day-to-day tasks in the office. 

Although she doesn’t spend every day on the street witnessing, Lisette feels that her job at the office isn’t any less significant in its mission.

Instead, she knows that the practical work helps keep the office going and those working around her connected to each other.

“Leaving home has been a challenge for me, but the help of people that God has put into my path has really helped me,” said Lisette. “And being here in Carlisle, that’s how we see our ministry: trying to get alongside people and helping them and making them feel welcome and just getting to know them.”

Lord willing, David and Lisette will rejoin the OM Ship ministry in September 2012, this time aboard Logos Hope. 

In all, Lisette takes comfort in Proverbs 3:5-6 and holds to the truths promised.

“When you trust in God—no matter what circumstances you go through in life, you trust Him and you believe in Him, He will direct your path,” explains Lisette. “He will see you through, no matter what. He’ll never leave you. Because He has chosen you, He knows you and He knows your heart.”

However, because of the delay in the conversion work of Logos Hope, the decision has been made that Logos II should continue to sail and serve until Logos Hope is ready. During the voyage from Takoradi, Ghana to Freetown, Sierra Leone, crewmembers met for prayer about the future of the ship. In small groups, people discussed aspects of the purpose statement —knowledge, help and hope. The room buzzed with conversations, and discussions continued after the formal gathering ended.

“It was exciting!” said Linda Bokinge (Sweden). “I am looking forward to what my future holds and what the ministry of the ship can be.”