Megha, Our Summer Intern, Was Listening
This summer, I had the privilege of serving as a summer intern with the Ministry to Seafarers through the MMI Program. I was very excited about this placement because it gave me the opportunity to visit ships, meet seafarers from around the world, and learn more about maritime ministry. I was curious about what my responsibilities would be and eager to experience life around the port.
My primary responsibility during the internship was to accompany the chaplains on ship visits and engage in conversations with seafarers. Whenever we visited ships or transported seafarers to the Seafarers' Centre or downtown, I spent time talking with them, listening to their stories, and learning about their lives. In addition, I studied ministry materials and learned more about the mission of the Ministry to Seafarers.
One of the highlights of my internship was meeting people from many different countries. Although I met seafarers from Myanmar, Georgia, Ukraine, Denmark, Sweden, China, Türkiye, and several other nations, most of the crew members I encountered were from the Philippines and India. Since I already knew Hindi, I had the opportunity to use it in conversations with Indian seafarers, which helped me improve my fluency and confidence.
Beyond communication, this internship taught me one of the most valuable skills I have ever learned—how to listen. Before this experience, I often found it difficult to simply listen without trying to respond immediately. Spending time with seafarers helped me become a better listener and reminded me that sometimes people simply need someone who is willing to hear their story.
Every ship visit was different. Some seafarers were eager to talk and openly shared their experiences, while others preferred to keep to themselves and politely avoided conversation. I learned to respect both responses. Many crews were incredibly hospitable and often welcomed us with meals, coffee, juice, or other refreshments. Their kindness demonstrated how much they appreciated being visited and cared for.
One conversation that deeply impacted me was with a ship captain. He asked about my faith journey, and I shared how I came to believe in Jesus Christ. Although he had been raised in a Catholic family, he explained that he no longer believed in God. Instead, he believed there was a greater force because everything in his life had gone well. He also argued that there is no objective good or evil, but that society simply creates its own standards of right and wrong. He further shared that seeing people kill one another in the name of God convinced him that the God people preach must be "dead."
His perspective challenged me to think carefully about my own faith. I responded by explaining that Jesus never harmed anyone in the name of religion and that He is the perfect example of goodness. I told him that the goodness and greater force he was describing ultimately point to Jesus Christ, while acknowledging that each person must decide what they believe. Before leaving, he asked about my future plans, and I shared that, God willing, I hope to become a minister. His response surprised and encouraged me when he said, "I can see that in you." Even after the conversation ended, I continued reflecting on why someone raised in a Christian background could become so convinced that God does not exist. That encounter challenged me to think more deeply about faith, doubt, and the importance of living out the gospel authentically.
Another unforgettable memory took place during a visit to a ship where we were delivering SIM cards. Security at the port was extremely strict, and we were only able to enter after waiting for about fifteen minutes. Once on board, we were warmly welcomed by the Third Officer from Georgia along with several Filipino crew members. While my coworker was helping others activate their SIM cards, the Third Officer approached me and showed me an ultrasound picture of his unborn child.
He shared that he and his wife were expecting a baby girl in September and that the main reason he wanted the SIM card was so he could stay connected with his family until he completed his contract and returned home. He excitedly explained that for generations, no one in his family, including his brothers; had ever had a daughter, and this would be the first girl in the family. His joy was contagious, and seeing his excitement reminded me of the deep sacrifices seafarers make by spending months away from their loved ones. That simple conversation remains one of my favorite memories from the internship.
I was also blessed to work alongside wonderful chaplains who patiently guided me throughout the internship. They helped me understand the Bible more deeply, explained different interpretations of Scripture, and encouraged me to grow in my faith. Their mentorship strengthened both my biblical understanding and my desire to serve others.
Looking back, the people I worked with made this internship especially meaningful. David's warm smile, Michelle’s leadership, Carolyn’s hospitality, Patty's dedication to her work, and Cindy's friendly personality each left a lasting impression on me. Their commitment to serving seafarers demonstrated genuine compassion and inspired me to approach ministry with the same heart.
Overall, my internship with the Ministry to Seafarers was one of the most meaningful learning experiences I have had. I witnessed firsthand how much seafarers appreciate the ministry's presence. Many of them expressed gratitude for having a place where they could rest, connect with family, receive practical assistance, and purchase necessities at affordable prices. Seafarers play a vital role in the global economy, yet their sacrifices often go unnoticed. Serving alongside the Ministry to Seafarers gave me a deeper appreciation for their work and for the importance of ministries that care for them. I leave this internship with valuable ministry experience, stronger communication and listening skills, a deeper understanding of Christian service, and many memories that I will cherish for years to come.
Megha
