Apostleship of the Sea - Christmas On Board Ship in Hartlepool
The British Captain and Lithuanian and Filipino crewmembers aboard the m/v Investigator, a deep sea supply and survey vessel, expected to be at sea over the Christmas period, but because of problems with the winches on board, which are vital to the work of the ship they berthed in Hartlepool while repairs were carried out. This was a blessing in some ways as it meant that the crewmembers could enjoy some time ashore, and perhaps enjoy the Christmas festivities a little more than they would if at sea.
Early visitors to the ship were local AOS Volunteer Ship Visitors, Brenda Bland, and Kevin O’Connell who brought with them 17 ‘shoe box’ size presents wrapped in shiny festive paper, one for each man on board. In this instance, the presents had been donated by St Patrick’s parish Hartlepool, St Joseph’s, Blackhall and SS Peter & Paul, Hutton Henry. (Presents were also subsequently donated by St Joseph’s, and St Cuthberts in Hartlepool)
Kevin O'Connell and Brenda Bland give the crewmembers a warm welcome and early Christmas present
Having been made very welcome, it then became apparent that the two visitors could help in other ways. First Brenda would return to the ship with some warm clothing for the Filipino crewmembers who were feeling the cold, and transport was arranged to take the crewmembers to Sunday evening Masses at St Joseph’s, and to Mass at the same church on Christmas Eve.
Arrangements were also put in place to e-mail Filipino and Lithuanian news to the ship on a regular basis.
Tony McAvoy
AOS Lay Chaplain, &
NE Regional Co-ordinator
e-mail: teesportnorth@aposmar.net
See also Diocesan Societies-Apostleship of the Sea