Message for the Day of Seafarers 2017 : The Sea and People Unite the World

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Message for the Day of Seafarers 2017 The Sea and People Unite the World The sea is mysterious and supports al […]

Message for the Day of Seafarers 2017
The Sea and People Unite the World

The sea is mysterious and supports all life on earth. That means not only that people are nourished by the abundant resources of the sea, but also that their lives are supported by cultural exchange that occurs when people cross the sea and meet others, and by the delivery of necessary goods across the sea. Since luxury cruise tours are popular now, the sea also plays a role in promoting cultural exchange among people who cross national borders. However, all these opportunities are supported by seafarers who work behind the scenes.

Please use your imagination for a moment. Knowing that 99.6 percent of imported goods to Japan are transported by ships (ref. “Ship Now” by Japan Maritime Public Relation Center), try to imagine how many people are working on the sea at this moment in order to support our lives. Realizing this, we must be grateful for the blessings the sea gives us and thank as well the people who work on the sea. In addition to thanking them, we should also pray for them, because once ships leave port and enter onto the ocean beyond our sight, those of us living on the land unfortunately do not give thought to seafarers. Although they practically carry the lives of people around the world on their shoulders, nobody, except their beloved families, cares and prays for them even when they are facing serious difficulties. We are a true family before God, so we should always show concern for them, and pray for their safety.

The Apostleship of the Sea (AOS) is a Church activity that supports seafarers. In addition, in Japan, groups of people visit ships regularly and support seafarers in port. Through these activities, we can unite with seafarers staying in Japanese harbors. Please pray for seafarers and support ship visits with encouragement and material support. And when you have a chance, please visit ships and seafarers together with us.

July 9, 2017
Bishop Michael Goro Matsuura
Chairperson
Catholic Commission of Japan for Migrants, Refugees and People on the Move

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