There is news of a new war in the air, although we have hardly recovered from yesterday’s bombs. Around the Red Sea another thousand barrels are being oiled for battle and swords are being sharpened as they were sharpened in the past.  

 Over the Black Sea heavy artillery thunders constantly now, as if it is a quite normal part of the daily existence of many. Peace seems to be an extremely expensive commodity and love a seldom experienced commodity. When will reports tell us that Eden had been restored?

It is not a surprise that Danie and Yuri, a sea-working man from the Ukraine simply pray together in the dining area of the ship: ‘Dona nobis Pacem’ – Lord, give us Peace. The fear created by war gobbles up peace on every conceivable level of existence. When Yuri shares his story, he shares it with his mobile phone gripped tightly in his hand. He explains that every message received has the potential to change his existence irrevocably. Every message contains a potential bomb. It could be a missile intent on destruction. When Yuri speaks, Danie realises that Yuri had been more passionate before: However, war tempered the passion, changing it into dejection. His peace was replaced by a high-tension cable running through his heart, threatening collapse at any moment. War steals everything, especially inner peace. So, simply: ‘Dona nobis Pacem’. Please Lord! 

Danie and Yuri talk intensely and urgently. War creates another type of urgency that lies way beyond sweet talk about the weather. It causes you to doubt the reason for life. It makes you wonder about God, humanity and existence. For Yuri, the chance to talk to Danie and Danie’s willingness to listen bring light within the continued trauma surrounding him. For a moment he can share the world that he carries on his shoulders with another person. Long after their conversation, they can pray together, begging: ‘Dona nobis Pacem’ – Lord, give us Peace.  

 Yuri’s story is one of thousands that sound similar. These are stories of unimaginable heartbreak caused by bombs and bullets. It does not matter whether war takes place around the Red Sea or Black Sea, war is war. Yet, not always. Yuri is unique, one of God’s creations. That is why we at the CSO see each person as a unique individual. We shall listen to each story and in listening we shall share with the seafaring men the hope, mercy and love of the One God that gives Peace that transcends all.  

We need your support to do what we do. Your donation strengthens our hands to serve men working at sea in each of our country’s harbours every day. Please consider becoming part of this care and service. 

 *Some partial sentences used and translated from Jannie du Toit’s song, ‘Vrede Vanaand’.