Houston Training 2026: Building Capacity for Seafarers’ Welfare
From February 22 to 27, the North American Maritime Ministry Association’s Houston training was back in full strength. Officially known as the Introduction to Seafarers Welfare and Maritime Ministry course, the program gathered a remarkable group of students from across the globe for a week of learning, reflection, and fellowship in one of the world’s great port cities. Participants came from Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Chile, Panama, Canada, and the United States, representing a rich diversity of backgrounds and ministry contexts.
Designed especially for new chaplains, ship visitors, and volunteers, the course offers an essential overview of the maritime industry, the realities of seafarers’ lives, and the wide variety of people encountered in this ministry. In recent years, seafarers’ ministries have undergone profound developments. Challenges related to shore leave, mental health, connectivity and internet access on board, and shifting industry expectations have reshaped the landscape of welfare work. Those involved in seafarers’ welfare ministry must continue to grow professionally in order to adapt wisely and faithfully. This course provides not only foundational knowledge, but also practical strategies for increasing the capacity of maritime ministry in changing times.
Managed by NAMMA with the generous assistance of local committee hosts at the Houston International Seafarers’ Center, the training benefits from strong partnerships. It carries the endorsement of Stella Maris (United States region) and the International Christian Maritime Association, reflecting a spirit of collaboration across traditions. After completing online introductory lessons on seafarers’ welfare and ship visiting, students arrived in Houston ready to deepen their understanding through lectures, discussion, and site visits.
A highlight of the week was a visit from Bishop Frank Schuster, bishop promoter of Stella Maris in the United States, who spoke about maintaining a proper vision and perspective in this demanding yet deeply meaningful work. Dr. Jason Zuidema coordinated the course, with teaching support from Dr. Christopher Graham, Assistant Director of NAMMA, who also led the daily prayer times that framed each day in reflection and encouragement.
The program included a wide range of lectures and off-site visits. Students toured the Seafarers International Union, explored maritime history at the Houston Maritime Museum, and visited the Norwegian Seaman’s Church. The Rev’d Mark Nestlehutt of the Seamen’s Church Institute delivered thoughtful sessions on the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, and seafarers’ advocacy. Dr. Shannon Guillot-Wright of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston addressed critical issues related to seafarers’ and fishers’ health. Additional contributions from Darren Shelton, Deacon Jeff Willard, Father Ian Hutchinson Cervantes, and representatives of the U.S. Coast Guard broadened the students’ exposure to the many partners involved in maritime welfare.
Houston is an ideal setting for this course. Its scale, diversity of maritime activity, and concentration of ministries allow participants to see firsthand how different organizations approach their work with distinct emphases and strengths. Students often remarked that they learned as much from one another as from the formal sessions. The conversations around tables, during van rides, and over shared meals were as formative as the classroom lectures.
Throughout the week, participants experienced generous Texas hospitality, strong support from the Port of Houston and other partners, and, not least, excellent food. More importantly, they shared prayer, best practices, and mutual encouragement. The return of the Houston training was not simply a resumption of a program; it was a renewed commitment to equipping those called to serve seafarers. For all who took part, it was a week of learning, fellowship, and deep gratitude.