Christmas at Sea
Christmas at Sea 2022-23
The Christmas Season can be an especially lonely time for the crews of the many ships that visit Charleston SPA Ports every day. The past two years have made this time even more difficult with the pandemic which has caused many to have their service extended and some have not seen their families in over a year.
For this reason, it is more important than ever that the Charleston Port & Seafarers Society continue working with local religious, charitable organizations and individuals to keep the tradition of providing these crews with presents to open during this holiday season.
With the help of many – There were over 3,600 presents distributed at our Ports this year! This could only be accomplished by the generous help of many. Christmas at Sea-churches, maritime businesses, associations, individuals, ITF, and others that make it all happen.
This year the International Transportation Workers Federation along with NAMMA (North American Maritime Ministries Association) helped buy the 3500 empty boxes. These boxes were distributed to churches, businesses, and charitable organizations. Supporters went shopping for much needed toiletry items, fun games, books, candy, and other surprises.
Many included a Christmas card with words of encouragement inside the gift-wrapped boxes wishing recipients a Merry Christmas.
These gifts were then gathered by the Charleston Seafarers and moved to the terminals and delivered to the over 100 ships that arrived in Charleston between December 1st and January 8th.
The results are very satisfying as you can see from just a few of the many quotes and pictures received from the recipients below.
From the Captain of the container ship APL Sentosa:
Dear Charleston Port & Seafarers Society
We like to thank you for all the efforts in your contribution to make this day special. As all crew was far from home and missing someone there, we try (for few moments) to bring up the spirit and enjoy the special day of Christmas.
We spent Christmas Day at Red Sea, underway to Port Kelang, Malaysia. Before Christmas dinner the crew was eager to check this year Santa’s presents, so we started with the gifts. The atmosphere was joyful and were all happy when opening the presents. It seems that we all have been good “kids” this year
We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
From the 3rd Officer of the Maersk Gateshead
Hope this email finds you well. This is the Third Officer, Sushbit Nair from the Maersk Gateshead wishing you a very Merry Christmas on behalf of everyone onboard this ship. On our last visit to Charleston, we received Christmas presents which we distributed yesterday while we stay at Anchor at Newark.
I would love to share that everyone onboard were thrilled to get some gifts. We appreciate the effort and love shared. It brings us lot of joy to know that you guys thought for us this holiday season while we are away from our homes and loved ones.
Wishing you all good health, a wonderful holiday season and a very happy New year. Please, do convey our regards to all the children who helped put a smile on our faces. Also, special mention to Clara for the presents she packed for me (Third officer), loved them.
Thank you once again.
Regards,
Maersk Gateshead
From the Master of the One Apus:
To: Charleston Port & Seafarers Society
Fm: Master / ONE Apus
Date: 28/Dec/2021
Dear Madams/Sirs,
The entire crew hereby thanks to all those involved in making our Christmas a lovely one, by donating the gifts.
The pictures cannot show entirely the joy you have brought to the crew, with your kind gesture.
As the vessel was transiting the Panama Canal on Christmas day, we had to postpone the celebration of the Holiday (seamen’s life…). As such we had our Christmas celebrated on the 27th of December, in the Pacific Ocean, underway from Panama Canal to Asia.
Please send our best wishes to the Church members and mission partners who made this happen.
God bless you all! We also wish you A Happy New Year!
Capt. Richard F. Marton
Master of m/v ONE APUS
There were far too many wonderful stories and pictures to print here – but these few out of many tell a nice story. The Holidays are an especially lonely time for these Seafarers away from their family and friends. Your thoughtfulness and generosity have provided some light and happiness. Together we have spread the Joy of Christmas around the world.
A Special thank you to all have made these experiences possible!
Thanks for supporting the Charleston Port & Seafarers Society.
