Lutheran Port MinistryLutheran Port Ministry The Houston International Seafarers' Centers are a “home away from home” for seafarers visiting the Port of Houston. Chartered in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s as a non-profit organization under the laws of the State of Texas, the two Centers have during their existence served over a million visiting seafarers. Both Centers exist as the result of a deep desire and concern within the local maritime industry, followed by active support and involvement of the community and local churches, to provide a safe and welcoming recreational and spiritual environment on land for those who have chosen the sea as their livelihood.
Recognizing that all human persons are a gift of God, the mission of the chaplains and Committee for Ministry to the Port of Houston is to carry out a ministry of presence, outreach, witness, worship, service, and advocacy to, with, and for seafarers and their families from around the world. The Lutheran Port Ministry Committee works to support our chaplain Ben Buehl.
Due to Homeland Security proceedures, about 70+% of the seafarers are not allowed to leave their ships due to nationality and or not having been provided visas by their ship owners. Almost 7,000 ships came in last year with 15,000 crew members. Chaplains are very busy with extra onboard work. Our mission offering supports Chaplain Buehl’s ministry.
Our November 22 and 29 mission offering will support the Lutheran Port Ministry.
You can also help the seafarers by filling a shoebox with personal items and small gifts which will be distributed for Christmas by the chaplains.