Crew Visit to the Princess

A recent crew visit to the Princess was exciting and eye-opening. We set up our ministry table in a noisy, large, crew dining area. People came by and took free books and pamphlets and engaged in conversations about the challenges of cruise ship work. A young man from the Caribbean missed the food he loved at home. A young, Muslim Filipino shared his struggles. Life is busy, hard, and often very lonely. 

While talking to others, a young woman left a scribbled prayer request on a napkin that read: “Can you pray that God guide my soul to Him… lately I am so lost and lonely. Nothing I do satisfy me… I only work to pay debts and there is no joy in my life.” When Mike Hoffmann pointed out the “napkin author,” I asked if she wanted to talk. After she finished her meal, we settled into a place that was less crowded and she poured out her pain. She was sick and tired – literally – and emotionally and spiritually. As the Holy Spirit guided the conversation, she visibly brightened. She was no longer alone in her pain. She learned that weakness can be the avenue to God’s greater strength in us. She smiled through tears and even laughed after we prayed. We gave her name to a pastor/worker who leads a Bible study to help build supportive community for her. What an honor to be there.

I could not help but contrast the crowded, noisy, rushed, oppressive atmosphere of the crew area with the crowded, joyful, peaceful, spacious, loving atmosphere of Canaveral Port Ministry. I’ve watched them pour through the doors of CPM, relax outside, visit with family via free wi-fi, shop, dine with us, and simply receive the love offered by everyone there. I can better understand why CPM is their “home away from home.” The joy so evident in the crew members visiting CPM is so different from the heaviness I felt and saw on the ship visit. CPM ship visits bring what we can to those unable to get off the ship. Just when I thought I could not appreciate Canaveral Port Ministry more, I do.