Regional Port Chaplain Visits Year 12

Faith

Steve Willows, the regional port chaplain for Stella Maris, visited Year 12 during their core RE lecture to talk about his role with the world’s largest ship-visiting network and the official maritime charity of the Catholic Church. Stella Maris supports seafarers who spend 9-12 months away from home, providing a 'friend in every port' and standing up for their rights. Steve shared the challenges seafarers face, including loneliness, depression, spiritual deprivation, and exploitation. Chaplains and volunteers visit hundreds of thousands of seafarers yearly, offering practical help, Mass on ships, and Wi-Fi to connect with family. Inspired by Steve’s talk, Year 12 wrote letters of hope to the seafarers he meets, offering support and encouragement.