Getting Started Q&A

Compiled here is a Q&A for the questions we have been asked the most about returning to Mercy Ships. Christians would call what we do missionary work. Another label would be Humanitarian aid workers. Mercy Ships gives free medical care regardless of religion or faith. BUT we share the Gospel of Jesus during their time with us. Whether they accept it or not, does NOT keep them from getting the best care possible. A team, a whole ship full of people, praying for them and loving on them!  [more here...]

Where will you be serving/working? The plan is to work on the Africa Mercy which services the west coast of Africa.

What is a "Calling"?

 If you grew up in church, you may have heard people say "God called me to Africa!". Maybe someone has said "My calling is to translate the bible for the lost tribes of the Amazon!". These type callings  are the ones we have grown up hearing. 

When people notice others are great at a certain thing (or things) and they do them with passion it is often said "They were called to do that!", "That's GOT to be your calling!".

Primary Care Giver

Stephanie, Puerto Castilla/Trujillo Honduras 2002

In simplest terms, when a family joins Mercy Ships and travels to work on one of the ships, one parent will have the primary job and one will be primary care giver. If your children are out of preschool (as both ours will be once we arrive) the primary care giver can also work a job during the full days of school. 

Stephanie and I are both open to be the primary care giver. This way we can best fill the positions Mercy Ships needs. Right now it seems I will have the primary job in food service and Stephanie will be primary care

I Think This is What Deja Vu Feels Like

2001 - Today
No Hair, No Tan, Mo' Fat...
I'm doing alright!

I first applied with Mercy Ships in 2001 as a cook. I had some management skills but I just wanted to get on board and serve! It was a new adventure for me and one that brought growth in both my spiritual development and trade experience.

Not long after finding out I had some skills the current Chief Cook (similiar to Executive Chef) decided it was time to leave. She was an Italian woman named Maria from Sicily. She was eager to leave the ship because she was to be engaged to Reuben from El Salvador. These are the facts the best I know them. From there she