Can you imagine?

Imagine looking out at the horizon and seeing nothing but grey waves meeting a grey sky for weeks on end. For the men and women who work the sea, this is daily life. They are the invisible workforce that brings us 50% (average) of the goods we use every day, yet they often face profound isolation. They miss birthdays, anniversaries, and - hardest of all - simply not being at home with their families during the important festivals of their own culture, while they watch the rest of their world gather together.

This is where the Apostleship of the Sea, known globally as Stella Maris (Star of the Sea), becomes a beacon of hope. They are more than just a charity; for a lonely seafarer arriving in a strange port, they are a friend. A Stella Maris chaplain or volunteer doesn't just bring supplies; they bring a listening ear, a mobile to call home, and the reassuring presence of faith. They remind these hard-working souls that they are not forgotten by the world they serve.

Our Parish’s Response 

This Christmas, our parish community answered that call to friendship in a spectacular way. We are overjoyed to announce that we were able to assemble 110 wonderful gift parcels for seafarers visiting our local ports.

The generosity shown was truly touching. As you can see from the photos, these weren't just simple handouts; they were care parcels filled with home comforts. Each distinctive checked and red festive bag was packed with essentials and treats to brighten a sailor's day.

The contents were chosen with such care: toiletries like shower gel and razors to wash away a hard shift, playing cards and writing pads to pass the lonely hours, and boxes of Toffifee and chocolate oranges for that necessary taste of Christmas sweetness.