First Mass of Christmas
The huge general cargo ship m/v Furness Melbourne was a welcome sight as her giant hull moved slowly into the port at Hartlepool. She has visited before, a couple of years ago, when she arrived in the port on her maiden voyage from Australia.
At that time, AOS Ship Visitor Brenda Bland had established a great rapport with the crew and she was delighted, in going back on board this time, that the Captain and crewmembers remembered her and made her very welcome.
Over the next few days, Christmas presents were delivered to the crew, and, as on her previous visit, arrangements were made for Mass to be celebrated on board, prior to her departure planned for early on Christmas Eve. Rosaries, miraculous medals, icons and a Crib with figures were all made available to the Filipino crewmembers, together with an AOS seafarers’ prayer book for each man.
The Mass was held on Thursday evening, 22nd December and was the first to be celebrated on board ship by Fr Michael Griffiths from St Joseph’s parish in the town. Nearly all of the 21 crewmembers were able to attend the occasion which began with and was interspersed with carols throughout. Prayers were also said for the families and loved ones of the seafarers from whom they would be separated during the Christmas period and beyond.
To mark the festive nature, AOS members had taken on board a Christmas cake, mince pies and other treats which were enjoyed by all present.
A wonderfully festive, and joyous celebration.
Tony McAvoy AOS NE
Carols before Mass
Fr Michael celebrates Mass
Fr Michael with Capt and crew
(AOS Ship Visitors Brenda Bland and Michael Carter far right of picture);
Fr Michael cuts the cake with Capt Camilo.