The Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, Cardinal Peter Turkson has called on Christian faithfuls in Ghana and across the world to pray for and with Seafarers during this global pandemic period.

This was contained in a message delivered on his behalf on Sunday, 12th July, 2020, a day set aside to mark this year’s Sea Sunday.

The prelate recounts the situation facing seafarers as the world experiences a global pandemic caused by the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19).

“The maritime industry continued its operation, adding a multitude of challenges to the already problematic lives of the seafarers, and putting them on the front line in fighting against the coronavirus.”

He sympathized with the relatives and friends of the countless victims (among them many seafarers) of the coronavirus, acknowledging regrettably, the hard times and the great inconveniences suffered by seafarers in the wake of the pandemic.

The Apostleship of the Sea (AoS) /Stella Maris, Ghana launched its centenary celebration last year on the theme “remember the past, celebrate the present, chart the future” but unfortunately, this year’s Sea Sunday celebration which was part of activities lined up has been overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prayer inspired by the Message for Sea Sunday (12 July 2020) of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
Holy Virgin Mary, sign of the maternal face of God,
with filial confidence we turn to you in the current pandemic.
Keep in your Immaculate Heart the seafarers, the fishermen and their families,
who with their work are ensuring the human family with food and other basic needs.
Sign of the closeness of the Father,
support them in their trials and protect them from all dangers: isolation and severe physical and mental stress, long periods spent on board ships, distance from their family, friends and from their own country, fear of contamination, piracy attacks and attempted attacks, armed robberies.
Sign of the mercy of the Son,
help Stella Maris chaplains and volunteers to listen to the people of the sea,
trying to respond to their material and spiritual needs,
standing by their side, raising their concerns,
upholding their labor rights and preventing discrimination.
Sign of the fruitfulness of the Spirit and advocate of seafarers,
bring unscrupulous ship-owners, crewing agencies and managers
back to the way of justice who,
 using the excuse of the pandemic,
dismiss their obligations towards seafarers.
Let us stand in solidarity with those who have lost their income.
Sign of consolation and sure hope,
tenderly embraces coronavirus victims,
especially the seafarers who committed suicide.
Star of the Sea, pray for us. Amen!

Source: Vincent Amedzake