Scottish Catholic Observer

The bishop has been acting in concert with the Apostleship of the Sea (AoS), a Catholic charity supporting seafarers worldwide.

The 15 members of the crew of the Malaviya Seven have been in Aberdeen since June 15, detained in the ports for alleged non-payment of wages by their ship’s owners, who are based in India.

The Apostleship of the Sea has been supporting the sailors by providing warm clothing as the crew faced colder weather, with jackets and fleeces being provided by parishioners throughout Aberdeen Diocese. Port chaplin Doug Daniel has been taking the crew out to various places in the northeast of Scotland which has given them stress relief away from the issues on board the vessel.

The Bishop of Aberdeen, Hugh Gilbert, has given his own support to the crew. “It was a pleasure to meet and talk with the crew, bless the vessel and share a meal aboard,” he said. “Though the situation will remain tense until justice is done, it was clear that the efforts of the Apostleship of the Sea and others on behalf of the crew were much appreciated. Gratitude and good humour were evident.”

Doug Daniel said: “It’s an anxious and stressful time for the crew but having someone from AoS they know and trust support them makes a difference. The AoS have made all crew members feel part of their family during this difficult time, where they have enjoyed visits out of the port environment, and also attended the Russian Choir performance in St Peter’s in Aberdeen, and also the crowning of the statue of Our Lady of Aberdeen in St Mary’s Cathedral.

“At present the crew have enough water, fuel for heating and food on board the vessel. Hopefully we are nearing a solution to this dreadful experience. The crew currently have enough warm jackets and clothes with everyone rallying round to provide help. When Bishop Hugh arrived on the vessel to give the crew and the ship a blessing, this was a treasured experience for the Indian crew, as in India they would never meet a bishop in person!

“Bishop Hugh was wonderful with the guys and they enjoyed every minute of the occasion. I visit them six days out of seven and take them out once a week to relieve any stress which is beginning to creep in, as some have been on board the vessel now for seven months.”

In a note to the chaplain following Bishop Gilbert’s visit, the stranded seafarers said: “It was the most remarkably auspicious event for all of us. The ship’s atmosphere is now well charged with great positivity, divinity and great blessings of Almighty Lord the God. Divinity has approached us miraculously!”

For more information about the Apostleship of the Sea or to make a donation visit: www.apostleshipofthesea.org.uk

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