Submitted by Deacon John Archer For The Catholic Week The Catholic Maritime Ministry of Mobile would like to thank all who participated in the Maritime Ministry’s 2024 Christmas Bag program. As a result of the generosity of multiple parishes and volunteers, the ministry delivered a record 524 Christmas bags to seafarers visiting Mobile this Christmas season. Another 68 seafarers received Stella Maris T-shirts after all the bags had been given, and most importantly, the ministry celebrated Mass onboard three vessels in December. In total, Stella Maris delivered Christmas to 33 different vessels. Four of the earliest recipients were sailing to China, Japan and India, all of which are journeys of about 50 days. The very first vessel would not arrive at another port until after Christmas and asked for help gathering decorations and anything to help celebrate Christmas while at sea. Individually, a seafarer excitedly explained that this was the first Christmas gift he received in his eight years as a seafarer. A captain of another vessel told a ship visitor this year would be the best Christmas ever. Regardless of the nationality of the crew, the most common response to our visit is an abundance of gratitude and smiles. Thank you to all the parishes and individuals that contributed to Christmas for the seafarers, without your participation this program would not be possible. Please pray for all seafarers, that Mary Star of the Sea will guide them to a safe port in her Son.