Houston Training 2025
The maritime world is constantly evolving, and those engaged in maritime ministry must continue to develop their skills and knowledge to effectively serve seafarers. From February 23 to 28, a diverse group of participants gathered in Houston, Texas, for a course on seafarers’ welfare and maritime ministry. This program, managed by the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) with the support of the Houston International Seafarers’ Center and its Chaplain Committee, provided an essential learning experience for both new and experienced chaplains, ship visitors, and volunteers. Prior to arriving in Houston, participants completed several online lessons, ensuring they were well-prepared for in-depth discussions and hands-on learning upon their arrival.
The course offered an overview of key issues in maritime ministry, addressing topics such as advocacy, ship visiting best practices, the Maritime Labour Convention, and industry trends. Participants came from around the world, including Hong Kong, the US Virgin Islands, Trinidad, Argentina, Panama, Canada, the Netherlands, and the United States. Many of the students were at the beginning of their careers in maritime ministry, and the hybrid format of the course allowed them to engage with foundational materials in advance, maximizing their learning experience once on-site.
A highlight of the program was the close study of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006) led by Phil Schifflin of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy. This provided an essential framework for understanding the rights and protections afforded to seafarers. Additionally, participants had the opportunity to engage with maritime industry experts, including Prof. Dr. Max Johns, who provided insight into the impact of recent events in the Red Sea on global shipping. The course also aligned with the NAMMA regional meeting, bringing in 25 additional participants from across the Texas Gulf Coast, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
Beyond classroom learning, the course allowed participants to experience the Houston maritime community firsthand. They attended daily prayer led by the chaplains of the Houston International Seafarers’ Center and visited the Norwegian Seamen’s Church, where they enjoyed lunch and prayer with Rev. Line Kvalvaag. A tour of the Houston Ship Channel aboard the MV Sam Houston provided a deeper appreciation for the scale and complexity of maritime operations. These experiences reinforced the importance of community, faith, and practical support in maritime ministry.
The success of this training was made possible thanks to generous sponsors and partners. A special thanks is extended to the Houston International Seafarers’ Center and Port Houston, whose Port Community Grant helped defray meal and other costs. Hosting the course in a major maritime hub like Port Houston allowed participants to engage directly with a vibrant seafaring community in a way that would not have been possible in a smaller port.
As the week concluded, participants reflected on their experiences through the “One Photo” assignment, in which they selected a single image that captured a key aspect of their learning and shared the story behind it. This exercise allowed for meaningful personal insights and reinforced the themes of the course.
With the next ISWMM-Houston session already on the horizon for February 2026, this training continues to be an invaluable resource for those dedicated to the welfare of seafarers. The program not only equips participants with knowledge and practical skills but also strengthens the bonds within the global maritime ministry community, ensuring that those who serve seafarers do so with confidence, professionalism, and compassion.