Catholic Maritime News-Winter 2017

WINTER 2017

Summer 2016

WINTER 20172016 Summer

Winter 2017

Catholic Catholic Maritime News News Maritime News

CareNACfor the AOS in Conjunction with Care forMeets the Seafarer Seafarer the North American Maritime Ministry Association Conference

The following article indicates the significance and importance of care for The following article indicates the the seafarer.and These events took place significance importance of care for in the past 4-5These months in the Port of the seafarer. events took place Savannah, The inexcerpts in the pastGeorgia.

4-5 months the Portare of from articles published in the Savannah Georgia.

The excerpts are Ministry Association Con“InSavannah, August the North American Maritime Morning News, written in by the RussSavannah Bynum from articles published ference was held in conjunction with the Apostleship of the Sea and Mary Carr Mayle.

Morning News, written by Russ Bynum North America and Caribbean meeting in Portsmouth, Virginia. and “TheMary crewCarr of Mayle. the Newland Castellano

VOLUME 83

Volume 82 VOLUME Volume8382 Volume 83

Maritime MaritimeChaplaincy ChaplaincyMinistry Ministry and andApostolate Apostolate

“CHAPLAINS: On the Front Lines of Faith.” This documentary show stories of chaplains in many walks of life and he is The ministry ofwith the Maritime in negotiations PBS to do apostolate is of very The ministry thetounique Maritime a sequel to this film include and difficult. isThe mandate apostolate very unique Maritime or Seaport Chaplains. from the Apostleship of the

and difficult. The mandate Sea (AOS) manual requires from the Apostleship of the There were many panel time, discuschaplains to in theirrequires Sea (AOS) put manual sions and workshops to include energy, chaplainstalents, to put inresources their time, NAMMA is an ecumenical association. Of the 99 attendees 20 were ministry to fishers. and their experience to care already had of reason to complain, having energy, talents, resources “The crew theByNewland Castellano Roman Catholic. combining our resources, it only makes good for the seafarers, thereby, not been paid for roughly two months and their experience to care already had reason to complain, having Bishop J. Kevin Boland sense tothe combine oursailed meetings to get the most out of both. We plan Fr. participate Bruno our AOS in thecs, mission of when cargo into Savannah for theCiceri, seafarers, thereby, not been paid ship for roughly two months Bishop J. Kevin Boland onwhen doing the same next August for the 2017 in New Orleans.

Jesus Christ in himself, in the to offload a shipment of sugar.

Then U.S. Marshals seized the 590-foot ship, representative from was Bishop J. Kevin Boland participate the Rome mission of the cargo ship sailed into Savannah maritime world.

Therefore, forcing it to drop anchor off the Then Georgia and wait outthe a legal dispute He was very pleased Jesus Christ himself, inwith the the Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ to offload a shipment of sugar.

U.S.coast Marshals seized 590-foot ship,there.

The Conference met owners the criteria thatcreditors.” the Pontifical Council for the the AOS chaplains must be between vessel’s and Georgia their maritime Therefore, forcing it the to drop anchor off the coast and wait out a legal disputecontent of theworld. conference regarding fishers.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ distinguished by their integrity Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People put forth to the the AOS chaplains must be of life, their zeal, their prudence between the months vessel’s have owners and their “Nearly four passed and creditors.”

15 crew members remain stuck on and their knowledge of the maritime world.

In fulfilling their Regional tosea, holdwithin a working with of the theme distinguished by theirto integrity of life, their zeal, their prudence My personal gratitude Fr. Bruno and Karen Parsons.

We board a Coordinators few out have to view15 ofconference the beach sands Tybee Island “Nearly four miles months passed and crew members remain stuck on mission, the chaplains make every effort to provide pastoral their knowledge of the maritime world.

In fulfilling their ofboard Fisheries I was able to work NAMMA’s Executive but legally Ministries. prohibited from setting foot on with land because they are foreign had and an excellent get together in Portsmouth, VA. Together we a few miles out to sea, within view of the beach sands of Tybee Island assistance in Stella Maris centers and in other hospitality centers nationalsJason with Zuidema, limited visas.”

“Thesignificant crew, all Filipinos for a Greek extend mission, the chaplains make and every effort totoprovide pastoral Director, to setting have input onexcept the NAMMA our Christmas Blessing Greetings the Seafarers but legally prohibited from foot on land because they are foreign for maritime personnel. engineer and a Romanian electrician.” assistance in Stella Maris centers and in other hospitality centers Conference agenda.

This enabled Catholic chaplains to for attend nationals with limited visas.”

“Thethe crew, all Filipinos except a Greek of the World.

The duties of the chaplains require that they welcome seafarers for maritime personnel.

“Todd attorneyelectrician.” who represents the vessel’s creditorsminismade a engineer and the a Romanian both theBaird, NAMMA Conference and receive training in fisheries and care for them regardless of culture, language and religion number of trips out to the ship to pay the sailors.

Baird also brought his Sincerely yoursofinthe Christ, The duties chaplains require that they welcome seafarers tries asked for the by the Pontifical It was a great cooperative.

“Todd Baird, attorney who Council. represents the vessel’s creditors made a and to provide them with practical assistance. They are present parish priest, Father Brett Brannen to the ship several times to say Mass for and care for them regardless of culture, language and religion number of trips out to the ship to pay the sailors. Baird also brought his to the seafarers, and seek opportunities to recognize and to share thehad predominantly Catholic crew.”

“It’s something the crew particularly and to provide them with practical assistance. They are present We two special speakers. was Ianhas Urbani of for the parish priest, Father keynote Brett Brannen to the The ship first several times to say Mass love of Jesus. Indeed, the chaplains encounter Jesus when appreciated,” Baird said, adding that the seamen have remained in good to the seafarers, and seek opportunities to recognize and to share the Times who wrote series, Ocean.”

Hehas spoke to theNY predominantly Catholicthe crew.”

“It’s“Outlaw something the crew particularly they imitate the love of Christ and in their works of charity, they spirits throughout.” the love of Jesus. Indeed, the chaplains encounter Jesus when Baird said, addingthe that the seamen havean remained in good encounter him within themselves and in the people they serve. usappreciated,” on Fishers’ Welfare Around World.

I received email from they imitate the love of Christ and in their works of charity, they “Now the crew’s ordeal is nearing an end.

The ship was sold at auction and spirits throughout.”

As stated in the scripture: “Do not neglect to show hospitality Mr. Urbani upon my return to Galveston. He would like to hear any encounter him within themselves and in the people they serve. approved in a court hearing, finally releasing the hold.” “The first group of to strangers, for by so doing some have entertained angels J. KevininBoland stories from our port areas that out may beThe of way interest to “Each his series.

“Now the crew’s is nearing end. ship was sold at auction andBishop As stated the scripture: “Do not neglect to showencounter hospitality sea-weary sailorsordeal is expected to flyan on their home.” man had without knowing 13:1-2.

The chaplain’s Promoter forit.”byHebrews approved inkeynote atheir court hearing, finally releasing the hold.”

“The first group ofBishop The second given bythe Emmy winning filmmaker, to strangers, so doing some have entertained been offered oldwas positions by new Award owners, but they declined.” no matter how brief, is a time to convey to the seafarers thatangels the sea-weary sailors isspeaking expected about to fly out theirdocumentary way home.” “Each man hadApostleship of the Sea without knowing it.” out Hebrews 13:1-2.

The –chaplain’s Martin Doblmeier hisonnew on PBS, whole Church reaches to them in prayer especiallyencounter in the Baird said, “I think being a mariner and a sailor, one of the issues you face is been offered their old positions by the new owners, but they declined.” no matter howofbrief, a time convey to the seafarers that the difficult aspects theirislives at to sea.

The chaplains try to make being out to sea for a great length of time. But they’re happy and ready to whole Church reaches out to them in prayer – especially in the Baird said, “I think being a mariner and a sailor, one of the issues you face is the seafarers know that they care for them and that they matter go home.” difficult aspects of their lives at sea.

The chaplains try to make being out to sea for a great length of time. But they’re happy and ready to because they are members of the body of Christ. the seafarers know that they care for them and that they matter go home.”

The life ofthey seafarers is hard. ofThe of their time is because are members thevast bodymajority of Christ. spent aboard the ship. They risk their lives to transport people, The and life of seafarers is hard.

The vast majority of their food other amenities through the treacherous seas time and is spent aboard the ship.

They risk their lives to transport people, oceans. food and other amenities through the treacherous seas and Bishop J. Kevin Boland, Bishop Promoter - AOS Continued oceans. on page 2 ➜ Bishop J. Kevin Boland, Bishop Promoter - AOS Continued on page 2 ➜ United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Secretariat of Cultural Diversity in the Church Pastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees & Travelers / Apostleship of the Sea National Office United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, of Cultural Diversity in the Church 3211 Fourth Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017  Secretariat E-mail: aos@usccb.org  www.usccb.org/aos Page 1 / Apostleship of the Sea National Office Pastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees & Travelers 3211 Fourth Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017  E-mail: aos@usccb.org  www.usccb.org/aos

WINTER WINTER 2017 20172017 volume VOLUME VOLUME 83 83 Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 83

Maritime and Apostolate AOS National Office: PastoralChristmas Care Chaplaincy Visits toMinistry the Ports Message

Catholic Maritime News

Continued from page 1.

As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from the regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest.

“Special is published by the Apostleship of the Sea (AOS) National Office concern should3be shown for–those among theand faithful who, on account times a year spring, summer winter. of their way of life, cannot sufficiently make use of the common and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it.

Secretariat of Cultural Diversity in the Churchand refugees, Among this group are the majority of migrants, exiles Pastoral Caregypsies, of Migrants, & Travelers seafarers, air-travelers, and Refugees others of this kind. Suitable pastoral methods should also be promoted to sustain the spiritual life Bishop Promoter: Most Reverend J. Kevin Boland of those whoBishop go toEmeritus other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” of the Diocese of Savannah, GA (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ AOS National Director Contact: Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html).

With 3211and Fourth Street,adequate NE, Washington, DC 20017 suitable methods through instructions we must cater for Phone:of(202) 541-3359  Fax: (202) 541-5417 the spiritual needs the faithful.

E-mail: jokereke@usccb.org We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with the chaplains as they care for the people of the sea and offer hospitality. So far I have visited the following ports: 1.

www.usccb.org/aos

Port of Mobile, Alabama

2.

Port of Long Beach, California AOS National Office web address has been changed. If you have 3.

Los Angeles, California linkedPort to usofpreviously using the old www.aos-usa.org address, 4.please Port of Oakland, California remember to change your link to www.usccb.org/aos 5.

Port of San Francisco, California We encourage you to visit our website which has user friendly 6.

Port of Miami, Florida, navigation tools.

Check out our interactive map with a list of 7.AOS chaplains Port of Everglades, Florida and contacts, know about news and events and other Port relevant information.

8. of Galveston Texas If you want to know about Mass 9.schedules Port in of parishes Houston,around Texas the country, there is even a link to MassTimes.org.

10.

Port of Port Arthur, Texas

They are isolated and some if not most of them are missing families back

Dear Friends, home. They miss out on participating at Mass or other Church activities Our annual to give thankscelebrations and praise to of GodChristwith their families. They are separated mas revels God’sand eternal for from their families friends;love many are distressed, and weighed down due to loneliness and pressure of work. humanity. The mystery of Love Many are trapped in the sea and their movements restricted.

They spend months at sea without Himself becoming are flesh.

“When going ashore, often working in harsh conditions. the fullness of time had come, God However, challenges on the way, a chaplain’s sent His regardless Son, bornofofthese a woman, mission is to offer pastoral care to the seafarers. They go beyond born under the law, to ransom the boundaries to serve the seafarers, to pray with them and to those under the law, so that we celebrate the sacraments. They are available for counseling and might spiritual receive guidance,adoption.” as well as (Galaprovide comfort to those hurting or tians 4:4).They Weencounter pray thattheChrist’s Bishop Joseph J. Tyson grieving. seafarers through “listening, dialogue and solidarity.

Through celebration of the sacraments and the light may be renewed in every family, parish and communityWord which of God, the team helps seafarers discover the loving receives thechaplaincy love of God made incarnate in to Jesus Christ.

presence of God in all events and circumstance." (cf. AOS Manual page 10) chaplains assist andinhelp bringLet them hope before and WithThe the shepherds, let usseafarers, bow down worship. us kneel encouragement, they accompany and care for their spiritual and social the Lord our Maker. With the angels, let us proclaim the glory of needs. Pope Francis, addressing the AOS Regional Coordinators in Rome God on high; let of usthose announce thewho gifts God’s to allones peosaid, “Be the voice workers liveoffar from peace their loved ple goodwill.

Ourand nation andsituations.” all peoplesAsofthe thechaplains World await with and of face dangerous difficult embark eager longingoffor theChrist, peacethey which from Christ in the mission Jesus are comes called to show God’sthe loveprince to the of seafarers, their work play a vital role in the is global economy as in peace.

Aswho PopeinFrancis reminded us, Christmas “A day of mercy, well as in the global maritime industry. which God our Father has revealed his great tenderness to the entire The AOS participate in the the mission of Jesus Christ; is world, ” “Achaplains day of light, which dispels darkness of fear andthat anxiety. the mission to bring the Good News that God is 'love' and that every A day of peace, which makes for encounter, dialogue and reconcilperson is loved by God. In serving the seafarers, the chaplaincy iation.

A day of joy: a “great joy” for the poor, the lowly and for all team offers activities and facilities, charity and advocacy, to meet the the people.” (cf. Luke Message Friday, practical, spiritual and2:10). social(Christmas needs of the seafarers.

TheDecember chaplaincy25, 2015 St. Peter’s Square).seafarers, Let us rejoice for Christ is born for year us, let team in seeks to accompany at significant times of the us in the day of our salvation. andrejoice at important events in their lives. We therefore pray the Lord of

I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed.

I have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences We welcome your comments, suggestions. and challenges.

The visits have been feedback a source and of great satisfaction and Tell us what you think by sending an email to aos@usccb.org. my experiences will help inspire other chaplains. Is your seafarers’ center a place where people are welcomed and cared for - ‘A home away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35. While at the BayStatements Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro and opinions expressed in articles Parravano, fishing captain andare a salmon and fisherman. and other materials herein the views ofcrab individual authors and

Contact Catholic Maritime News

DISCLAIMER

do not necessarily the position of thechaplains Apostleship of volunteers the Sea In the words of Popereflect Francis, I encourage and National during this Office.

Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring the opportunity of encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to Apostleship Seaaway of thefrom United States of America spend most of of thethe year their families, in the(AOSUSA) high seas, a professional membership chaplains/associates, andissometimes facing dangerousassociation situations. ofTogether, let us explore shipissues, priests,build mariners, student mariners andtogether affiliate members. the cruise various relationships and work towards the For AOSUSA membership enquiries: success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers Badeaux through the intercession of Doreen Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the 1500 Jefferson Drive, Arthur, TXguide 77642and strengthen Apostleship of the Sea ministry, thatPort the Lord will Tel. (409) 985-4545  Fax (409) 985-5945 our work.

E-mail: aosusa@sbcglobal.net  www.aos-usa.org Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

the harvest to send out more laborers in the vineyard.

May our Christmas season be one of gratitude and joy lived in a Do not miss the golden opportunity for Maritime Ministry Training, family theTX. spirit of our families alive.

Februaryatmosphere, 12 – 24, 2017keeping in Houston, Scholarship is available for Many the Ports of Los Angeles and Long people, among them seafarers, may have to celebrate Christmas Roman Catholic Chaplains and Pastoral Team who minister in theBeach U.S.A. through the Apostleship of theThey Sea (AOS).

To Sr. apply for scholarship, away from their families. do this asJoanna service for humanity; Okereke, HHCJcontactso Sr. Joanna Director, Diversity in the even theirOkereke, absenceHHCJ; fromAssistant their families is Cultural aRev. sign of their and Freddie Chua commitChurch/Pastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees and Travelers; United States ment to their duties.

Conference of Catholic Bishops at 202.541.3359 or Jokereke@usccb.org.

IThe wish a special, application joyful and holy Christmas Season 15, to all2016. the readers scholarship deadline is November The scholarship is limited and will be granted on a “first-come, firstof Catholic Maritime News and to their families! A special Christserve”blessing basis. For additional information, please the contact theand School mas to all the seafarers throughout world their Coordinator (Deacon Allan Frederiksen) at deaconallan@comcast.net. families. I pray that God’s blessing be upon you and your families.

Deacon Allan Frederiksen, Coordinator, Houston Maritime Ministry Training Program, Houston International Seafarers' Center. P.O. Box Respectfully yours in Christ, 9506, Houston, TX 77261-9506. Email: deaconallan@comcast.net; Cell Phone: 832.398.0679; Office Telephone: 713.672.0511, Fax: 713.672.2444. Download application @ www.houstonseafarers.com

Most Rev. Joseph J. Tyson Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ Bishop YakimaPastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees, and Travelers AssistantofDirector, Chairman, Subcommittee on Pastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees (PCMRT) and Travelers AOS National Director, Secretariat of Cultural Diversity in the Church

Page 24 Page 2

WINTER 2017 VOLUME Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 2017 volume 8383

AOSand National Office: PastoralonesCare theaccess Ports A Time of Giving and doVisits not have to regular to their families. They miss out on participating at Masses and other religious celebrations.

Sharing Today, in more than 50 ports around the United States chaplains seafarers, when away at sea, they are separated from their loved

As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, must pay particular attention to seafarers Dear Friends, Happywhich Christmas! (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from Christmas in many places is a famthe regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special ilyconcern celebration.

It is a time families should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account come together to celebrate the gift make use of the common and of their way of life, cannot sufficiently ofordinary life andpastoral of one care another.

During of parish priests or are quite cut off from it.

Among this group are the majority Christmas, there are lots of fun of migrants, exiles and refugees, seafarers, air-travelers, gypsies, and others of this kind. Suitable and activities, songs and Christpastoral methods should also be promoted to sustain the spiritual life mas carols, parades in the cities. of those who go to other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.”

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ Many people spend time visiting (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ friends and family members, sharing and giving gifts. It is a time of documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html).

With Joy, Peace,methods and Happiness.

As adequate we reflectinstructions on this wonderful timefor of suitable and through we must cater the spiritual needs ofofthe faithful. grace, a celebration God’s greatest gift to the world; the gift of

His Christ, we must are people WeSon setJesus a goal of visiting each keep portsintomind walkthat withthere the chaplains as they care for the people of the sea and offer hospitality.

So far Itime. have who might need our help in making the season a wonderful visitedthis the following ports: During Christmas, many people will spend time with family 1.

Port ofthe Mobile, and friends, but factAlabama remains, not everyone like seafarers and 2.

Port of Long Beach, California all people of the Sea will have the opportunity to celebrate and 3.

Port of Los Angeles, California share the joy of the season with their families due to the kind of 4.

Port of Oakland, California work they do.

5.

Port of San Francisco, California

The work of the merchant mariners, fishermen, and all 6.

Port of seafarers, Miami, Florida, people are dangerous and risky. As Pope Francis rightly 7. of the PortSea of Everglades, Florida stated, “Seafarers risk their lives 8.

Port of Galveston Texas on the open seas because of “the hazards of theofforces of nature, 9.

Port Houston, Texas piracy and armed robbery” and they10. risk psychological harmTexas when they are denied regular shore Port of Port Arthur, leave or must be away from their families for months, even several I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our years, at a time.

(Seaheard Sunday 10,to2016).

As the conversations, I have theircelebration, concerns andJuly issues be addressed. special of Mercy concludes, did we show theexperiences mercy of I have Year learned a lot and we shared how our hopes, difficulties, andtochallenges.

The visitsall have been aofsource of great and God others especially people the Sea. Howsatisfaction did we show my experiences will help inspire other chaplains.

Is your seafarers’ love, express our care as well as recognize their needs. For the center a place where people are welcomed and cared for - ‘A home away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35. While at the Bay Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crab fisherman.

and volunteers reach out with a message of love and hope to the seafarers. As we celebrate this sacred season, let us keep in mind the words of Pope Francis, “Let us open our hearts to receive the grace of this day, which is Christ himself. Jesus is the radiant “day” which has dawned on the horizon of humanity. A day of mercy, in which God our Father has revealed his great tenderness to the entire world. A day of light, which dispels the darkness of fear and anxiety. A day of peace, which makes for encounter, dialogue and reconciliation. A day of joy: a “great joy” for the poor, the lowly and for all the people (cf. Lk 2:10).” (Christmas Message, December 25, 2015).

As the National Director, I want to thank the Chaplains and volunteers for their support and care. Seeing how you care for seafarers, gives me cause to celebrate as we carry out our Mission to be present, to support and assist the maritime ministry, on behalf of the United States Bishops’ Conference. I thank all those who support the maritime ministry, those who provide for their spiritual and material wellbeing and those who generously provide gifts for seafarers and their families. On this joyous day, I wish you all a merry Christmas, I pray that the Lord may fill your hearts with the joy of sharing and giving. May your lives be filled with love, peace and joy of Christ.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ the Son of Mary, Star of the Sea, we ask her intercession for us and for all seafarers.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

National Director – Apostleship of the Sea Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach Assistant Director, Cultural Diversity in the Church Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage chaplains and volunteers during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring the opportunity of encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen our work.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 34 Page

and Rev. Freddie Chua

WINTER 2017 2017 volume VOLUME 83 Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 83

AOS National Office: PastoralTheCare Visits toofthethePorts Apostleship Sea – Port As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from the regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special concern should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account of their way of life, cannot sufficiently make use of the common and ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it.

Among this group are the majority of migrants, exiles and refugees, seafarers, air-travelers, gypsies, and others of this kind. Suitable pastoral methods should also be promoted to sustain the spiritual life of those who go to other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html). With suitable methods and through adequate instructions we must cater for the spiritual needs of the faithful.

Chaplains Prepare for Christmas

The chaplains, Fr. Peter Lin and Deacon Pepe Chirinos, and volunteers of Port Everglades are preparing their Christmas gifts for the seafarers. We are happy to receive gifts that we can share with them in support of this noble cause. Your gift will bring joy and laughter and will make a difference in the lives of many seafarers who will be away from their loved ones this Christmas season.

We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with the chaplains as they care for the people of the sea and offer hospitality. So far I have visited the following ports: 1.

Port of Mobile, Alabama

2.

Port of Long Beach, California

3.

Port of Los Angeles, California

4.

Port of Oakland, California

5.

Port of San Francisco, California

6.

Port of Miami, Florida,

7.

Port of Everglades, Florida

8.

Port of Galveston Texas

9.

Port of Houston, Texas

10.

Port of Port Arthur, Texas Fr. Peter Lin, Deacon Pepe Chirinos and volunteers at Port Everglades, Florida

I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed.

I have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences and challenges. The visits have been a source of great satisfaction and profession. Increasingly, however, the date my experiences will help inspire other chaplains. Is your seafarers’ is being center a place where people are welcomed andalso cared for - ‘Aused hometo call attention to environmental away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”concerns, Matthew as well as the plight of 25:35. While at the Bay Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro women and men whose abuse by some in Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crab fisherman.

World Fisheries Day Spotlights Environment, Plight of Unseen Workers

the industry goes largely unseen.

In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage chaplains and volunteers during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring This the year, opportunity of See and the United the Holy encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are

By Rhina Guidos Catholic News Service Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organizaseafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to tion used the occasion to urge an end to spend most of (CNS) the year-- away their families, in the high seas, WASHINGTON Eachfrom November, the violation of human rights in the fishing and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore communities around the world celebrate industry. the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the ansuccess industry that has provided livelihoods of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers and built the strong bondsoffor comGraziano dathe Silva, director general of through intercession Ourcoastal Lady Stella Maris,Jose for seafarers and Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen munities that depend on fishing. For them, the FAO, along with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, our work.

Nov. 21, known as World Fisheries Day, helps to celebrate men and women who Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ have dedicated their lives to the fishing

the Vatican’s secretary of state, joined forces to ask the fishing industry to combat illegal and unregulated fishing. Fishing

Page 44 Page

Ports ofsaid Los Angeles and Long Beach at and aquaculture, da Silva, speaking Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ an event in Rome in November to address and Rev. Freddie Chua of one the issue, supports the livelihoods of every 10 people on the planet. It helps developing countries create jobs, builds strong coastal communities, and provides food and nutrition to vulnerable populations. “Sadly the same industry that offers so many opportunities also victimizes the most vulnerable,” said da Silva, adding that the International Labor Organization estimates that every year “an average of 24,000 fishermen and women lose their lives” in the industry.

Media reports have called attention to abuses such as forced labor, child labor

WINTER 2017 VOLUME Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 2017 volume 8383

to listen to whatever they might be AOS National Office: Pastoral Care Visits ready to the Ports experiencing and provide help, said Sister

and slavery, he said. The stress of migra- tion,” and have their travel or other legal tion in recent years also has contributed to documents confiscated and returned only forced labor and poor working conditions, after forced or underpaid labor, he said. a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus daAsSilva added. As producers, da Silva said, (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral careInismany the responsibility cases, crews are unable to disemthe fishing industry has “to guarantee that of the local church, which must pay particular attention toport, seafarerseven if a worker wanted bark in a the seafood platesthey hascannot been benefit sufficiently and (among otherreaching itinerants)our because from to flee to report an abuse, “they are unable produced, in an environmentally the regularnot and only ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special to escape, prevent abuse, or to seek concern should be shown those the faithful who, on to account sustainable manner butfor also in among a manner assistance,” Cardinal of their way ofthe life,socioeconomic cannot sufficiently make use of the common and Parolin said. that supports well-beordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it. ing of those who harvest and process it.”

“This situation is aggravated in the case of Among this group are the majority of migrants, exiles and refugees, unreported seafarers, air-travelers, gypsies, and others of illegal, this kind.

Suitable and unregulated fishCardinal Parolin said that while the fisherpastoral methods should also be promoted to sustain the spiritual life Holy See considers it ing,” he added. “The ies makes global contribution as the sake of recreation.” of sector those who go toa other lands for a time for crucial to develop capabilities to monitor, it(http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ allows many to have access to nutrition identify and rescue fishermen who are documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html).

With and improves human welfare and ecovictims of smuggling, trafficking and great suitable methods and instructions we must cater for nomic prosperity, “it through is vital adequate the economic (abuse).” the spiritual needs of the faithful.

vision not forget to guarantee a human We set a goal of visiting ports towith walk with the chaplains as level of well-being that iseach compatible In Washington, Sister Joanna Okereke, theyenvironmental care for the people of the sea and So far I have the protection.”

He offer saidhospitality.

HHCJ of the U.S. Conference of Catholic visited the following ports: long-term prosperity must be assured by Bishops’ Apostleship of the Sea ministry, 1.

Port of Mobile, Alabama sustainable practices. Uncontrolled fishing said World Fisheries Day is an opportunity 2.

Port of Long Beach, California can threaten marine organisms, he said. to reflect on fishing, fishermen and women, 3.

Port of Los Angeles, California Cardinal Parolin also called attention to coastal communities as well as the status 4.

Port of Oakland, California labor practices that have led to a form of of the oceans and fish stocks. But mostly 5.

Port of San Francisco, California modern-day slavery. He said by some esti- importantly, she said, it’s a day to focus on 6.

Port of Miami, Florida, mates, 29 million people around the world those whose work puts food on our tables 7.

Port of Everglades, Florida continue to work under coercion, largely in yet whose lives, which sometimes include 8.

Port of Galveston Texas an informal and illegal economy. suffering, are largely out of sight.

9.

Port of Houston, Texas

10.

“About

of PortofArthur, Texas 90Port percent today’s forced labor It’s important for people of faith, she said, isI imposed by private have productive visits.agents I haveprimarily seen whatinis going on,about duringthe ourlives of men and women to learn conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed. labor-intensive industries such as fisher- who work in the fishing industry. She I have learnedParolin a lot andsaid. we shared experiences ies,” Cardinal Someour of hopes, these difficulties, urged others to learn about them, to offers and challenges. The visits have been a source of great satisfaction and practices have led migrants to become prayers for them and to actively do somemy experiences will help inspire other chaplains. Is your seafarers’ the victims of where trafficking orare forced labor.andthing center a place people welcomed caredto forhelp.

- ‘A home “Workers aboard fishing vessels are isoaway from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew The Apostleship of the Sea ministry, she 25:35.forWhile the Bay Area California,not I visited with Captain Pietro lated longatperiods beingofdeprived said, celebrates their valuable work and Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crab fisherman. only of contractual guarantees but also of encourages port chaplains to help “the most basic fundamental rights,” he said. chaplains and volunteers In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage faith” as they during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring fishers’ the opportunity of journey in lonely conMany live in the confined circumSome encountering mercy spaces, of God toinour brothers ditions. and sisters whowork are 7 days a week and are seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations them to families. Chaplains are stances that are a “tantamount to detenoftenrequire far from their spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen our work.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 54 Page

Okereke, a member of the Handmaids of the Handmaids of the Holy Child Jesus.

“We try to advocate for the spiritual care and the fair working conditions of those working in fisheries around the world,” she told Catholic News Service.

Dioceses in coastal communities, said Sister Okereke, sometimes offer opportunities to volunteer. Some organize Masses or events at ports, others help with letter-writing to advocate for better treatment, and some help put together Christmas boxes for fishermen and women to receive as they reach a port during the holidays.

The Coalition of Catholic Organizations Against Human Trafficking invited John Connelly, president of the National Fisheries Institute, which represents a variety of fishing industry entities, for a discussion about the issue.

“We want to solve the problem,” said Connelly, speaking to the coalition at USCCB headquarters Nov. 22. No one wants to be associated with product that comes from abusing others, he said. The fishing industry in the United States is working with a lot of organizations, including some nonPorts of Los Angeles and Long Beach governmental organizations, Sr. Joanna Okereke,to HHCJidentify and Rev. Freddie Chua solutions, he said.

If there’s a problem, Connelly encouraged others to make the problem known. The industry, he said, wants to know about the problems so they can be fixed.

WINTER 2017 2017 volume VOLUME 83 Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 83

Fish are among the widely traded food commodities, totaling NationalDiversity Office: Pastoral Care Visits The SecretariatAOS of Cultural in 135 billion USD in to 2015.the Ports the Church/ Pastoral Care of Migrants, Fisheries and aquaculture employ more than 43 million individuals worldwide Refugees and Travelers Celebrates World More than 25% of the world’s dietary protein is provided Fisheries Day by fish. n

As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from the regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special concern should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account of their way of life, cannot sufficiently make use of the common and The annual World Fisheries day is celebrated on November 21 ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it. throughout world.

World Fisheries Dayexiles is anand opportunity Among thisthe group are Each the majority of migrants, refugees, toseafarers, reflect onair-travelers, the ever-increasing knowledge fishing, fishgypsies, and others of about this kind.

Suitable pastoral methods should also promoted the spiritual life ers, coastal communities, andbethe statustoofsustain the oceans and the of those who go to other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” fish stocks. In honor of World Fisheries Day, the Secretariat of (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ Cultural Diversity had a display table in the Atrium on November documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html). With 21,suitable 2016, to highlight the issues facing the fishing sector and their methods and through adequate instructions we must cater for valuable work. the spiritual needs of the faithful.

n

n

n

Human population consumes over 100 million metric tons of fish annually.

n

Globally, annual fisheries exports are valued at 85 to 90 billion dollars.

Let us continue to advocate for the spiritual care and the fair working conditions of those working in fisheries around the World.

We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with the chaplains as they care for the people of the sea and offer hospitality. So far I have visited the following ports: 1.

Port of Mobile, Alabama

2.

Port of Long Beach, California

3.

Port of Los Angeles, California

4.

Port of Oakland, California

5.

Port of San Francisco, California

6.

Port of Miami, Florida,

7.

Port of Everglades, Florida

8.

Port of Galveston Texas

9.

Port of Houston, Texas

10.

Port of Port Arthur, Texas

I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed.

I have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences and challenges. The visits have been a source of great satisfaction and my experiences will help inspire other chaplains. Is your seafarers’ center a place where people are welcomed and cared for - ‘A home away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35. While at the Bay Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crab fisherman.

In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage chaplains and volunteers during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring the opportunity of encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen our work.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 64 Page

Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ and Rev. Freddie Chua

WINTER 2017 VOLUME Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 2017 volume 8383

needs to be available to all seafarers, all seafarers, captains and deckhands, shore AOSforNational Office: CarewhoVisits to theagents, PortsChaplains, deacons, men AOS, The Church workers andPastoral captains and those work workers, on vessels of all sorts and types throughout and women religious, and catholic laity all People of the Water the world. To those who are passengers, to working together, sharing together, learnAs a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility those you own and travel on recreational local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers byofFr.the John Jamnicky vessels, those from who work on and supply (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently oil rigs, and “Special fishermen, and all the world’s the regularwe andtalk ordinary pastoral ministry of priest.

Whenever about the Church, wethe parish concern should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account water people.

We need to support and usually always think about a building or a of their way of life, cannot sufficiently make useencourage of the common and involved in this minisall those people, and in many cases these buildings ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it. try, those who volunteer, and all interested and people located some ofsection Among this are group are theon majority migrants, exiles and refugees, that want to bring the presence of ofseafarers, land thatair-travelers, is a part ofgypsies, some country on of parties and others this kind. Suitable the Church to thelifepeople of the water. pastoral also be promoted to sustain the spiritual the planetmethods we call should our world, a world comof those who and go to75% other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” prised of 25% water.

Since most The primary responsibility of the Apostle(http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ of our planet is water, therefore most of the ship of the SeaWith is to make the sacraments documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html). people are water people, and since less of suitable methods and through adequate instructions we must for available to cater all people of the water, to all our is land less of the peotheworld spiritual needstherefore of the faithful. people on water and along the shore, not

ple are land people. The church should and We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with just the the chaplains people ofasthe land. That is why it must people are. wehospitality. So far I have they be carewhere for thethe people of the seaWhen and offer is so essential that we have many, many think about the earliest visited the following ports:Church, in most people involved in this special ministry. It cases1.JesusPort walked from town to town and of Mobile, Alabama is essential that in every Apostleship of the village proclaim the good news 2. to village Port of to Long Beach, California Sea ministry there is a priest affiliated with and 3. to be Port among theAngeles, people.California Only later in of Los it no matter where it is located in order to His ministry was He not on land. Only on 4.

Port of Oakland, California have the sacraments available. In that way some5. occasions on the water and Port of He San was Francisco, California we can make sure the people of the water on the lakes and streams, 6. shores Port of of various Miami, Florida, are brought to where the sacraments can and 7. yet there many people who derive Port ae of Everglades, Florida be celebrated with them or we must see their8.livelihood workTexas on water their Port of and Galveston that a priest is brought to where the peowhole andofare associated 9. life Port Houston, Texas with water ple of the water are so they can celebrate and streams They would 10.

Portnearby. of Port Arthur, Texas be water and, therefore, receive the grace, the life, people, and the Church historically has not I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our and nourishment of the seven sacraments been as involved withheard watertheir people.

It has conversations, I have concerns and issues to be addressed. of the Church. been more involved people ofour thehopes, land. difficulties, experiences I have learned a lot with and we shared and challenges. The visits have been a source of AOS great satisfaction ministries and must be engaged with all AOS into being ago because my came experiences will 100 helpyears inspire other chaplains.

Is your seafarers’ the needs of the people of the water. Only center a place people are welcomed members of thewhere Church realized they hadand cared for - ‘A home through that engagement and relation“I was stranger you welcomed me.” Matthew toaway give from morehome?’ attention to athe waterand people ship can they Pietro truly offer the blessings and 25:35.

While at forgotten, the Bay Areaand of California, visited with Captain who have been those of Ius nourishment that God is providing for Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crabthe fisherman. who have become involved in the ministry them.andThe Church must be where God’s the words of Francis, encouragetochaplains volunteers ofInApostleship of Pope the Sea mustI continue are. Thoseofof us who call ourselves during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring people the opportunity bring the good news, to bring the love of must be encountering the mercy of God to our brothersAOS and sisters whoabout are caring for those that God, especially to people who whose live, work, seafarers, fishermen, and those occupations require them to are seeking the Lord, and people of the and travel on of thethe waters of ourfrom world, spend most year away theirand families, in the high seas, water are definitely seeking the Lord. sometimes facing dangerous you situations. soand I recommend and encourage to try Together, let us explore various issues,people build relationships and work So together towards the tothe make as many you come in conthat we are could provide quality AOS success of building a solid and strong ports.

Let us join our prayers tact with aware of the importance of our ministry here in the USA, we formed a through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Church’s ministry in the Apostleship of the Catholic Membership association called Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen Sea the people of the water. The Church AOSUSA. The members of AOSUSA are ourtowork.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 74 Page

ing together and ministering together all over our country and because of this membership association that is all about supporting and following the guidelines and ministry of the Apostleship of the Sea we have been able to expand AOS ministries even to cruise ships for their passengers and crew throughout the U.S.A. and the world.

I encourage you to join this membership group, AOS-USA, so that you can be part of supporting and furthering AOS in our country to the people of the water. I have now been involved in the Apostleship of the Sea since the year 2000. I am now retired from all my assignments as a priest of the Archdiocese of Chicago, but in retirement I still remain active as the AOS chaplain to the Port of Chicago, Waukegan and the maritime ministries in Lake County, Illinois, and I regularly serve as a cruise ship priest through AOSUSA. There are so many options and so many ways that we can help and assist each other in helping and assisting all of God’s people who live, work and depend on the waters of the world that we live on. You know of Los Angeles Long there Beach is where therePorts is water there and is life, God, and whereSr.there God, there JoannaisOkereke, HHCJ is the Church and where is theChua Church for andthere Rev. Freddie the people of the water, there is the Apostleship of the Sea. Christ was born on Christmas of water and the Spirit. May the life giving water of our world bring you Joy, Hope, and Salvation for this Christmas Season.

Rev. John A. Jamnicky, retired, past National Director of AOS, Board Member of AOS-USA, AOS Chaplain, Chicago

WINTER 2017 2017 volume VOLUME 83 Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 83

State Deputy Steven Cohen of the Maryland Knights of ColumAOSand National Office:thisPastoralThe Care totelevision. the Ports A Place of Refuge Hospitality bus donatedVisits a flat screen The State Deputy sent out a message to the Knights of Columbus Councils to come to the aid of Christmas at the Baltimore AOS the Newlead Granadino. The response was overwhelming. Msgr.

As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, pay particular Since September 20,which 2016must the ship Newleadattention to seafarers (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from Granadino, A Malta based asphalt tanker has the regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special been anchored in the water at the entrance concern should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account toofthe Baltimore Harbor. has a crewmake of 14 their way of life, cannotIt sufficiently use of the common and Filipino, 3 Romanian and 1 Greek seafarers ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it.

Among this are the of migrants, exiles and refugees, restricted to group the ship.

Themajority ship experienced seafarers, air-travelers, gypsies, and a major engine failure near Baltimore.others Coastof this kind. Suitable pastoral methods should also be promoted to sustain the spiritual life Guard officials inspected the vessel and of those who go to other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” found engine problems and safety violations. (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ The owners have financial problems and were documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html).

With behind in methods pay untiland thethrough third week of Novemsuitable adequate instructions we must cater for the2016. spiritual needs of the faithful. ber,

FitzGerald said that several Baltimore area Filipino organizations responded to appeals for aid from Fr. Pete Literal of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. In addition, to the above mentioned items, the Filipino groups have collected financial aid to assist where the crew’s families were in urgent need.

Extra Ordinary Ministers of the Eucharist who are Stella Maris Volunteers Andrew Middleton and Shawn Day have scheduled Communion services. Captain Eric Nielsen, President of the American Pilots Association is arranging for Msgr. FitzGerald to be taken out to the ship on a tugboat for Confessions and Mass.

We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with the chaplains as

Barbara Shipley, of the ofInternational Trade they care for the people the sea and offer hospitality. So far I have Workers Union has ports: spear headed negotiavisited the following tions1.withPort theofowners, and the mortgage Mobile, Alabama holders. has received support for the 2. Barbara Port of Long Beach, California crew3.from Port the Apostleship the Sea’s Stella of Los Angeles,ofCalifornia Maris4.Center,

by California Msgr. John FitzGerPortdirected of Oakland, ald and Baltimore International Seafarers 5. thePort of San Francisco, California Center directed by the Rev. Mary Davisson, a 6.

Port of Miami, Florida, priest7. of the Diocese of Maryland.

PortEpiscopal of Everglades, Florida Elizabeth Brown, the Port Agent 8.

Port of Galveston Texas from the Seafarers International Union in Baltimore has offered 9.

Port of Houston, Texas a space at the Union Hall to store and sort theofmany donations 10. out Port Port Arthur, Texasmade to the crew of the Newlead Granadino.

I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed.

Supplies of food, toiletries, clothing, reading materials, and reliI have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences gious prayer bookshave andbeen Bibles have been taken to the ship and articles, challenges.

The visits a source of great satisfaction and courtesy of Moran Tugboat Co. and the Urban Pirates my experiences will help inspire other chaplains. Is yourCompany seafarers’ center a place where people are welcomed and cared for - ‘A home ship “Fearless”. away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35. While at the Bay Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crab fisherman.

Christmas Shoe boxes from parishes and schools of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, are waiting to be delivered by Santa Claus on his reindeer tugboat! The Apostleship of the Sea is planning the arrival of Santa Claus and an Elf with gifts of caramelized popcorn, boxes of chocolates, assortments of Christmas Cookies, and a pop-up Nativity scene for everybody and prayer books in the Tagalog language of the Philippine Islands.

Msgr. FitzGerald said that the above groups, indiPorts agencies, of Los Angeles and Longand Beach viduals standby to continue aiding the crew as long as they are in Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ need while in Port of Baltimore. and Rev. Freddie Chua

In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage chaplains and volunteers during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring the opportunity of encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen our work.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 84 Page

WINTER 2017 VOLUME Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 2017 volume 8383

inception of the Partnership, interacts hoods, their towns, and the people they AOS National Office: Pastoral to theShePorts Fishing Partnership frequently with the AOS in Care her otherVisits major serve.” added, “We have many good role as president of the Massachusetts community health workers and commuSupport Services Fishermen’s Partnership, an organization nity health programs in Massachusetts but As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of commercial fishermen’s associations the Hahesy local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers byofJohn fromsufficiently all gear and geographic sectors of the (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit from state’spriest. fishing industry. regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish “Special A the Massachusetts-based non-profit orgaconcern should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account nization with links to the Apostleship of Angela has collaborated with the AOS of their way of life, cannot sufficiently make use of the common and the Sea (AOS) has been recognized for the in advocating ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off fromforit. more federal support quality effectiveness of its services Amongand this group are the majority of migrants,for exiles and refugees, fishermen and their families. And, forseafarers, commercial fishermen, as provided by oftogether air-travelers, gypsies, and others this kind.with Suitable Nina Groppo, another Partpastoral methods alsodeeply be promoted to sustain the spiritual life community healthshould workers rooted nership navigator from Gloucester, Angela of those who go to other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” in fishing communities. has organized a large delegation of Cath(http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ from Massachusetts that documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html).

Fishing Partnership Support Services (the olic laypersonsWith suitable methods and through adequate instructions we must cater for Partnership) has been named the 2016 has traveled to Washington, D.C. to attend the spiritual needs of the faithful. the annual Maritime Mass at the National

Community Health Worker Program of the We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with the of chaplains as Shrine the Immaculate Conception for Year by the Massachusetts Association of they care for the people of the sea and offer hospitality. far I years. have the pastSo three Community Health Workers.

The award visited the following ports: honors Partnership for optimizing the “The work of the Fishing Partnership and its 1. thePort of Mobile, Alabama work2.and Port impact of patient navigators, a navigators closely matches the work of the of Long Beach, California category ofPort employees within the field of church,” said Angela. “We go to where the 3. of Los Angeles, California community health work. fishermen are, and we meet their needs for 4.

Port of Oakland, California care and support with direct one-on-one 5.

Port of San Francisco, California The Partnership employs patient navigasupport. We have great love and respect 6.

Port of Miami, Florida, tors at four coastal sites in Massachusetts for these workers who risk their lives to 7.

Port of Everglades, Florida and one in Maine, where they help fishprovide our society with the best source of 8.

Port of Galveston Texas ermen obtain affordable health coverage, protein there is.”

9.

Port of Houston, Texas enroll in free safety trainings, get tested 10.

Port of Port Arthur, Texas for various health risks, and connect with In designating the Partnership as its ComI have productive visits. seengamut what is going on, during our providers of services thatI have run the munity Health Worker Program of the conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed. from legal aid and financial counseling Year, the Massachusetts Association of I have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences toand substance abuse treatment andafamily Health challenges.

The visits have been source of Community great satisfaction and Workers recognized counseling. the Isdeep my experiences will help inspire other chaplains. your community seafarers’ roots of the organicenter a place where people are welcomed andzation’s cared for - ‘A home navigators.

Allaway Partnership navigators reside and in you thewelcomed me.” Matthew from home?’

“I was a stranger communities where they work; in most 25:35. While at the Bay Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro navigators are visible “Fishing Partnership Parravano, fishingresided captain there and a salmon andifcraband fisherman. cases, they have for years, trusted members of their communinot lifetimes. naviga-chaplains In for the their wordsentire of Pope Francis, IThe encourage ties,” and saidvolunteers association director Lissette during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring the opportunity of tors also have personal histories that relate Blondet. “They know their communities encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are directly to the fishing industry. Their ranks well and are well known in their communiseafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to include women who are spouses, partners, ties. This makes them especially effective spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, siblings and children of fishermen.

One Together, and productive.” and sometimes facing dangerous situations. let us explore navigator is a fisher herself. the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the Blondet that her association regards success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join said our prayers navigators Angela of ofGloucester, MA, throughSanfilippo, the intercession Our Lady Stella Maris,the for seafarers andas the“living witnesses to the Apostleship of theas Seaa ministry, thatsince the Lord guide and andstrengthen the dignity of their neighborwho has served navigator thewill value our work.

very few of them adhere to best practices, across the board, the way the Partnership and its navigators do.”

The Massachusetts Association of Community Health Workers is a statewide professional organization for community health workers from all disciplines. It is dedicated to strengthening the profession of community heath work and raising awareness and appreciation of the vital roles community health workers play in society.

Established in 1997, Fishing Partnership Support Services was originally a provider of health coverage to fishermen. It continued in that role until 2011, when it transitioned to being a provider of a various services to fishermen, acting like a virtual human resources bureau within the industry.

The dilemma of a fisherman whose wife lost her job in 2013, and with it the family’s health insurance, is typical of those solved by navigators.

“Due to the nature of my business, my wife being close to retirement, and having some family assets, we did not ‘fit’ into Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach the application scenarios envisioned by Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ the Massachusetts Health Connector,” this and Rev. Freddie Chua fisherman recently recalled. “We ended up in a seemingly unending nightmare of red tape…Without your help, I would never have been able to find my way through this process – and I am a well-educated person. Words cannot express my gratitude and appreciation for your work and dedication in helping my family over the past 15 months.”

There are many instances when a Partnership navigator, due to her knowledge,

Continued on page 10

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 94 Page

WINTER 2017 2017 volume VOLUME 83 Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 83

AOS National Office: Pastoral Care Visits to the Ports As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from the regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special concern should be shown for those among the faithful who, on account of their way of life, cannot sufficiently make use of the common and ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off from it.

Among this group are the majority of migrants, exiles and refugees, seafarers, air-travelers, gypsies, and others of this kind. Suitable pastoral methods should also be promoted to sustain the spiritual life of those who go to other lands for a time for the sake of recreation.” (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html). With suitable methods and through adequate instructions we must cater for the spiritual needs of the faithful.

We set a goal of visiting each ports to walk with the chaplains as they care for the people of the sea and offer hospitality. So far I have visited the following ports: 1.

Port of Mobile, Alabama

2.

Port of Long Beach, California

3.

Port of Los Angeles, California

4.

Port of Oakland, California

5.

Port of San Francisco, California

FISHING PARTNERSHIP SUPPORT SERVICES PATIENT NAVIGATORS/COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKERS

6. and Porthigh of Miami, contacts local Florida, profile, is asked to 7.

Port of Everglades, Florida help a person or a family from her commu8.

Port of Galveston Texas nity who is not a fisherman or a member 9.

Port of Houston, Texas of fisherman’s household. They always 10.

Port of Port Arthur, Texas respond affirmatively.

than a job,” said J.J. Bartlett, President of the Partnership. “They don’t stop helping at 5 o’clock. If someone is badly in need of assistance, they’ll see them on a Saturday or a Sunday. They always go the extra mile.”

I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our their concerns and issues to be addressed. has its administrative office A conversations, case like this,I have citedheard in the Community The Partnership I have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences in Burlington, MA, and its patient navigator Health Worker Program thebeen Yearaaward and challenges.

The visitsofhave source of great satisfaction and offices in Gloucester, my experiences will help other who chaplains.

Is your seafarers’ Plymouth, New Beddocuments, involved a inspire navigator center asix place where cared - ‘A homeMA, and in Kennebunk, andforChatham, donated hours to people helpingarea welcomed homeless andford away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”

Matthew to Ms. Sanfilippo and Maine. In addition family of While six enroll inBay MassHealth, the state 25:35. at the Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro Ms. Groppo, its Massachusetts navigators and federallyfishing supported health coverage Parravano, captain and a salmon and crab fisherman.

are: Lori Caron of Plymouth; Debra Kelsey, program.

In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage chaplains and volunteers Kendal and of Monica DeSousa of New during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring Verna the opportunity “Our community Morgan encountering thehealth mercy workers, of God to our our navbrothersBedford; and sisters who areEldredge and Shannon seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to igators, see their role as more of a calling Eldredge of Chatham. spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen our work.

The patient navigators/community health workers of Fishing Partnership Support Services are shown gathered outside the Partnership’s Plymouth, MA, office with two of the organization’s leaders. From left, are: Angela Sanfilippo, J.J. Bartlett, president; Lori Caron, Shannon Eldredge, Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach Nina Groppo, who is holding the CommuSr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ nity Health Worker Program of the Year troand Rev. Freddie Chua phy; Lauren King, the organization’s director of community health; Morgan Eldredge and Monica DeSousa. Navigators Debra Kelsey and Verna Kendall were not present.

“The work of the Fishing Partnership and its navigators closely matches the work of the Church.”

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ

Page 10 Page 4

WINTER 2017 VOLUME Summer 2016 CatholiC maritime NewS winter 2017 volume 8383

mite (No. 41)”. Since these are a common has been widely recognized as one of the AOS for National Pastoral Care Visits to the Ports Pontifical Council the Office: unsafe for the frequency of occupapatrimony of humanity, Pope Francis calls most everyone to:”...cooperate as in¬struments tional accidents and high death rates. On Pastoral Care of Migrants of God for the care of creation, each accord- this World Fisheries Day we would like to ing to his or her own culture, experience, call our attention also on the many fishand Itinerant People ers which find themselves in situation of involvements and talents (No. 14)”.

As a task of the Church, the decree of Vatican II Christus Dominus (No.18) clearly states that maritime pastoral care is the responsibility of the local church, which must pay particular attention to seafarers (among other itinerants) because they cannot benefit sufficiently from the regular and ordinary pastoral ministry of the parish priest. “Special World Fisheries Day Message For this we appreciate and wait concern should be shown for those among the faithful who, reason, on account of their way of life, of the common and expectation for the implementation of World Fisheries Daycannot sincesufficiently 1998 is make cele- usewith ordinary pastoral care of parish priests or are quite cut off fromon it. Port State Measures to The Agreement brated each year on November 21 to highAmong this group are the majority of migrants, exiles and refugees, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unrelight the importance conserving the of Prevent, seafarers, air-travelers, of gypsies, and others this kind. Suitable ported and Unregulated Fishing (PSMA), ocean andmethods marine should lifethatalso provides food for pastoral be promoted to sustain the spiritual life adopted as a FAO Agreement in 2009. After of those who go to other lands for a time for for the sake of recreation.” billions and employment opportunities several years of diplomatic efforts finally (http://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/ over 50 million people worldwide. documents/vat-ii_decree_19651028_christus-dominus_en.html).

With last June 5, and is now it went into effect, suitable methods throughLetter adequate instructions we must cater for Pope Francis in hisand Encyclical Laudato legally binding for the 29 countries and one the spiritual needs of the faithful.

Sì mentions some of the threats which are regional organization which signed it[2].

We set aand goal of visitingthe each ports marine to walk with the chaplains as affecting destroying natural Through the adoption and implementation they care for the people the seacoral and offer So far I have resources: “Many of the of world’s reefshospitality. of effective port State measures, the PSMA visited the following ports: are already barren or in a state of constant is the first ever-binding international treaty 1.

Port of Mobile, Alabama decline. “Who turned the wonder world seeking to prevent, deter and eliminate the 2.

Port of Long Beach, California of the seas into under¬water cemeteries illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) 3.

Port of Los Angeles, California bereft of colour and life?[1]”This phenom- fishing, a major environmental problem 4.

Port of Oakland, California enon is due largely to pollution which which causes great economic damages and 5.

Port of San Francisco, California reaches the sea as the result of deforesta¬- threaten food security in many countries[3].

6.

Port of Miami, Florida, tion, agricultural monocultures, industrial 7. of Everglades, Florida waste andPort destructive fishing methods, However, our concern is not only for the 8.

Port of Galveston Texas especially those using cyanide and dyna- marine resources. The fishing industry 9.

VIDEO 10.

Port of Houston, Texas

exploitation and abuses.

Unfortunately, it is not well known the tragic reality that, within the fishing industry, there are hundreds of thousands of internal/transnational migrants who are smuggled/ trafficked for forced labor on board of fishing vessels.

This is favored by a network of criminal organizations and individuals who prey on people coming from situation of poverty, eagerly seeking an employment that could help them to break away from the circle of misery. Instead, they end up in a situation of trafficking, debt bondage and slavery often without a way out. In fact, the fishing vessels stay out at sea for long periods (from a few months to several years), and the victims of these crimes find it difficult, if not impossible, to report their predicaments.

Port of Port Arthur, Texas

I have productive visits. I have seen what is going on, during our conversations, I have heard their concerns and issues to be addressed.

I have learned a lot and we shared our hopes, difficulties, experiences and challenges. The visits have been a source of great satisfaction and my experiences will help inspire other chaplains. Is your seafarers’ center a place where people are welcomed and cared for - ‘A home away from home?’ “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” Matthew 25:35. While at the Bay Area of California, I visited with Captain Pietro Parravano, fishing captain and a salmon and crab fisherman.

In the words of Pope Francis, I encourage chaplains and volunteers during this Jubilee Year of Mercy, to bring the opportunity of encountering the mercy of God to our brothers and sisters who are seafarers, fishermen, and those whose occupations require them to spend most of the year away from their families, in the high seas, and sometimes facing dangerous situations. Together, let us explore the various issues, build relationships and work together towards the success of building a solid and strong ports. Let us join our prayers through the intercession of Our Lady Stella Maris, for seafarers and the Apostleship of the Sea ministry, that the Lord will guide and strengthen our work.

Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9AJQmngKZyw&t=1042s

Page 114 Page

Challenges and Importance of Life as a Fisher

Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ and Rev. Freddie Chua

Capt. Pietro Parravano, professional fisher and fisher representative on the AOS-USA board, presents on the challenges and importance of life as a fisher at the 2016 NAMMA Annual Conference Portsmouth, VA.

WINTER 2017

VOLUME NoNprofit org.83 Nonprofit Org. poStage U.S. Postage

Apostleship of the Sea, Apostleship Sea, National NationalOffice Office Secretariat ofCultural CulturalDiversity Diversityininthe theChurch Church Secretariat of Pastoral Careof ofMigrants, Migrants,Refugees Refugeesand andTravelers Travelers Pastoral Care

Paid

permit # 288 Permit aNaHeim, CA Ca ANAHEIM,

3211 3211Fourth FourthStreet, Street,NE, NE,Washington, Washington,D.C. D.C.20017 20017

ReTURN Service SeRvICe Requested ReqUeSTeD Return

Summer 2016

CatholiC maritime NewS

A Seafarers' Prayer

Up Coming Events 2017

UPCOMING EVENTS IN 2016:

FEBRUARY 12 - 24, 2017 Houston Maritime Ministry Training Program @ Houston International Seafarers’ Center APRIL 18-20, 2017 AOS-USA Annual Conference, Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies, 692 Maritime Blvd, Linthicum Heights, MD 21090

O God, I ask you to take me into your care and protection along with all those who sail ships.

Make me alert and wise in my duties.

Half Moon Bay

available for the Roman Catholic chaplains and pastoral team who minister in the U.S.A. Make me faithful in the time of routine, and prompt through the Apostleship of the Sea (AOS). to decide and courageous to act in any time of To apply for scholarship, contact Sr. Joanna crisis.

Okereke, HHCJ; Assistant Director, Cultural Protect me in the dangers and perils of the sea; and Diversity in the Church/Pastoral SePTeMBeR Care of 29, 2016 even in the storm, grant that there may be peace Migrants, Refugees and Travelers; United and calm within my Feast of atOur Lady Star of the Seaheart.

States Conference of CatholicDay Bishops When I am far from home and far from loved ones 202.541.3359 or Jokereke@usccb.org. and far from the country that I know, help me to be

quite29, sure that, wherever SePTeMBeR 2016 The scholarship application deadline is I am, I can never drift MAY 19-21, 2017 November 15, 2016. The scholarship is limbeyond your love and care.

World Maritime Day Maritime Day Celebration ited and will be granted on a “first-come, Take care of my loved ones first-serve” basis.

For– C/Eadditional informa- Indispensable V. Tiwari Cosco Thailand Capt. O. Bereza – Cosco Thailand R. McKoonTheme: - AOS Shipping: to the World AUGUST 8-11 2017 B. Sharma – 3/E Cosco Thailand in the days and weeks B. Tiwari J. Prevosnak - Chaplain - AOS Capt. P. Parravano - AOS tion,J. Claassen please contact the School Coordinator North American Maritime Ministry Associand months when I am (Deaconhttp://www.imo.org/en/About/events/WorldMaritimeDay/ Allan Frederiksen) at deaconallan@ ation Conference, Annual Conference New separated from them, comcast.net. sometimes with half the Orleans LA Pages/WMD-2016.aspx

SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 Feast of Our Lady Star of the Sea, NOVEMBER 21, 2017 World Fisheries Day Do not miss the golden opportunity for Maritime Ministry Training, February 12 – 24, 2017 in Houston, TX. Scholarship is

world between them

Deacon Allan Frederiksen, Coordinator, and me.

Houston Maritime Ministry Training Keep 21, me true to them and NOveMBeR 2016 Program, Houston International Seafarers’ keep them true to me, and Center. P.O. Box 9506. Houston, TX 77261World Fisheries Day every time that we have to 9506.

Email: deaconallan@comcast. part, bring us together in net; Cell Phone: http://www.wiseoceans.com/event/ 832.398.0679; Office safety and in loyalty again.

Telephone: 713-672-0511, Fax: 713-672This I ask for your love's 2444. Download application world-fisheries-day/all/ @ www. sake. houstonseafarers.com

M. Belfiore

M. Belfiore

Sr. Okereke - AOS

Port of Oakland

Page 12

G. Tiwari

Amen.