The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) held its annual ‘Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols’ this week at All Hallows by the Tower in London, followed by a reception at Trinity House. The gathering brought together supporters, volunteers, and friends from across the global maritime community and the wider MtS family.

With thanks to Gold sponsor Shell and Bronze sponsors RightShip and Ardmore Shipping, the event paid tribute to the commitment of seafarers and their families, particularly at this time of year, when many spend Christmas far from home.

The service also recognised the tireless work of MtS teams around the world, from port chaplains and ship visitors to seafarer centre staff and volunteers. It further underscored the vital role of donors and supporters, whose generosity enables MtS to continue delivering essential care and welfare services to seafarers everywhere.

The nine lessons were read by:

HRH The Princess Royal, President of The Mission to Seafarers
Ms. Amanda Lennon, Trustee Member, The Mission to Seafarers
Mr. Jeremy Grose, Managing Director, NorthStandard
Ms. Patricia Braithwaite, Supporter, The Mission to Seafarers
Mr. Peter Aylott, Director of Policy, UK Chamber of Shipping
Ms. Caroline Knight, Independent Publishing Professional
Mr. Luca Marciani, Director General, Fondazione Grimaldi
Mr. Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping
Mr. Tom Boardley, Chairman, The Mission to Seafarers

The attendees once again enjoyed the music of the Lloyd’s Choir, who led the congregation in a selection of Christmas carols.

During the reception, HRH The Princess Royal, reflected on the work of all MtS’s stations, as well as the vital human contact that the Mission offers seafarers across the world. The Princess Royal also highlighted the importance of supporters like those in attendance, who uphold all of the MtS’s efforts. Tom Boardley, chairman of the board, was also invited to speak, to mark his final carol service as chairman, following a nine-year tenure.

During the reception, a speech was made by Secretary General of MtS The Ven. Dr Peter Rouch, and a number of awards were presented, including:

Chris Burley Volunteer Award, to Revd Jeremy Hellier, Honorary Chaplain
Church Engagement Award, to St Mary’s Church, Rotterdam

UK Individual Fundraiser Award to Rear Admiral Frederick J. Kenney, former Director of Legal Affairs and External Relations Division at the International Maritime Organisation
UK Corporate Fundraiser Award to Jeremy Dean, Advisor, Maritime Finance, Hayfin Capital Management LLP and Brian Nixon, Commercial Director, Greenheart Management

Speaking after the event, Peter Rouch, Secretary General of MtS, said: “Every year, this service reminds us of the extraordinary dedication of seafarers and the vital role they play in keeping global trade moving. At a time when many are far from home, our gathering is a moment to honour their service, support their families, and acknowledge the countless acts of care delivered by our teams around the world. We are deeply grateful to all our supporters, volunteers, and partners for ensuring that no seafarer faces hardship alone.”

Gernot Ruppelt, Chief Executive Officer, Ardmore Shipping, added, “At Ardmore, we believe seafarers deserve more than just our appreciation, they deserve our commitment. Supporting The Mission to Seafarers and events like the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is one small way we can show our gratitude, while helping to fund the vital work that keeps crews supported, connected, and heard all year round.”

Andrew Roberts, Executive Director EMEA & Americas, RightShip, remarked, “RightShip is honoured to support the Mission to Seafarers’ Christmas Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. As we work to build a safer, more sustainable maritime industry through data, innovation and technology, we are continually reminded that the foundation of global shipping is its people. Seafarers make immense contributions to world trade, often at great personal sacrifice. This event offers a meaningful moment to acknowledge their dedication and resilience, especially during a season when many are far from home.”
Source: Mission to Seafarers (MtS)