Don’t forget to thank the Seafarers|

THE BALTIMORE SUN | NEWS | SUNDAY, APRIL 19, 2020

Ellen Valentino’s recent letter (“Everyone in the food and beverage supply chain deserves our thanks,” April 14) offers well-deserved thanks to the “manufacturing workers, farmers, delivery drivers, cashiers and grocery clerks who are keeping our stores stocked and food on our tables.” Let’s also remember long-distance truckers, railroad workers, and the seafarers working on cargo ships — many of whom I’ve been privileged to meet in my 16 years as a port chaplain. Isolation is new for many of us, but missing family life is all too familiar for seafarers. Many routinely spend nine months away from home, most often Asia or Eastern Europe, in order to support their families.And some are enduring even longer periods on board during these stressful times. The pandemic has resulted in restrictions that make it difficult or impossible for those who have completed their contracts to disembark and fly home. Yet they continue to work long hours in stressful circumstances to keep our supply chain moving. We owe them our profound gratitude each time we sit down to a meal.

The Rev. Mary Davisson, Baltimore The writer is executive director and port chaplain for the Baltimore International Seafarers’ Center.

I am the true vine . . .

Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine . . .

I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit . . .”

~ John 15

For our Eucharist schedule, see right panel.