Go to home page - diocesan shield

The Anglican Church in Tasmania                                                             Search

a healthy church...transformingLIFE

Tasmanian anglican

August 2006

 

Refuge for Sailors

In 2006 the Mission to Seafarers is celebrating its 150th anniversary. The society was founded in 1856, inspired by the work of Anglican clergyman John Ashley, who became the self-appointed chaplain to seafarers crewing ships near the Bristol Channel in the early 19th century.

A network of chaplains and lay helpers minister to seafarers in more than 300 ports around the world, including Africa, North America, the United Kingdom and Asia.

The Flying Angel was adopted as the society’s symbol, inspired by Ch. 14:6 in the Book of Revelation.

The Burnie Seafarers’ Centre, located at Burnie Port, was opened in May 2006 by South Australian Bishop Garry Weatherill (Top R.) after the centre undertook extensive renovations last November.

The two-storey station, located next to the woodchip pile at the Burnie wharf, includes social and recreational facilities, phones and email and internet access. Burnie Missions to Seafarers’ committee chairman Doug Couzins said family contact was important to mariners. Support and worship opportunities for Christian seafarers can also be provided and the chaplain is available.

 


 

  


South Australian Bishop Garry Weatherill from South Australia at the opening of the Burnie Seafarers' Centre. Story and photo courtesy the Advocate. Photo Stuart Wilson