A ripple effect through the Mediterranean

It is estimated that by 2050, nearly 70% of the world’s population will live in urban areas. As Logos Hope, Doulos Hope and future ships visit these coastal urban expanses, with hundreds of crewmembers who have been profoundly impacted by God’s love, there emerge frequent, unique opportunities to share knowledge, help and hope in a way that creates a lasting ripple effect.

Crewmembers of Logos Hope have spent the last nine months in the Mediterranean, visiting 13 port cities. At the end of 2022, 141,590 people had come on board to attend the bookfair or an event and 150 local ministries and churches were supported. What remains immeasurable are the number of conversations and demonstrations of God’s love that will have made a profound impact, or the ongoing ministry and service of Jesus followers who were inspired and resourced by the presence of Logos Hope’s community.

COMBINING EFFORTS, A STORY FROM SPAIN

In Ceuta, Logos Hope partnered with the ‘Casa de Alabanza’ (House of Praise) church and other local believers, to support and encourage them as they serve in this multicultural city. Pastor Javier Santolaria said, “When we received the news about a ship coming back to Ceuta, my heart was filled with joy. In 2006, Logos II was here, so we were very happy to imagine [your] return!” Local believers joined crew for a prayer night as well as a Sunday service on board.

Another day, around 30 crewmembers and over 20 local believers covered the city in prayer, with groups taking different routes and then meeting in the city centre to worship and pray together. At the end of the visit, Pastor Javier said, “Your humility as well as your preparation is outstanding. As a church, we are very grateful for the effort of coming to Ceuta and blessing us in many ways.”

COMPASSION IN ACTION;

A STORY FROM MALTA

Logos Hope supported the work of the ‘Migrants Commission’ in upgrading a shelter, which “through collaboration with state agencies and international and local NGOs, seeks to welcome, protect, promote and integrate all migrants in Malta”. One crewmember explained, “The premises really needed a lot of renovation and so we aimed to help as much as we could. Some of our electricians had to replace lighting points and switches. Others painted doors and handrails. Most of us helped to empty the cubicles for refurbishment into emergency residences, so that the contractors could then start with their work.

“We saw this work as an opportunity to show compassion for those who have to flee their homes, through practical help and action and to encourage Migrants Commission in the phenomenal work they do every day.” Social worker Mario said, “The encounter with Logos Hope, with what you are doing, with the way you have offered your voluntary service and help, does touch upon the feeling of the beauty of how humanity can work together across borders–because there are no borders. It's a beautiful experience of just doing something together and it does bring hope!”