Churches around the globe are being called to recognize the world’s 1.9 million seafarers this month during an international day of prayer, reflection, and fundraising for those working on the frontlines of global trade.
Organized by The Mission to Seafarers, Sea Sunday 2026 will take place on July 12. This year’s theme, "Harbours of Hope: The Church Alongside Seafarers," challenges congregations to become places of welcome, safety, and support for maritime workers who often labor unseen.
Seafarers transport approximately 90% of global trade, including essential food, fuel, and commercial goods. However, the nature of the industry often forces workers to spend months at sea navigating isolation, exhaustion, and long separations from their families with limited access to communication.
For more than 170 years, The Mission to Seafarers has provided practical, emotional, and spiritual care through a global network of chaplains and volunteers operating in more than 200 ports worldwide.
Organizers said this year’s theme is biblical, drawing inspiration from Matthew 25:31–46. In the passage, Jesus instructs his followers to care for the vulnerable, stating that what is done for "the least of these" is done for him. The campaign encourages local churches to view themselves as modern-day harbors—places of refuge and dignity for those facing isolation.
The ministry highlighted the real-world impact of port chaplaincy through stories like Sally’s, a seafarer and new mother who had to return to sea, leaving her 3-month-old baby with extended family. A visit from a Mission to Seafarers chaplain provided her with a listening ear and a free SIM card, allowing her to see her child via video call.
"These small, compassionate acts can make a life-changing difference," The Mission to Seafarers said in a statement. "Sea Sunday reminds churches that hope doesn’t always arrive in grand gestures. Sometimes it comes through presence, listening and practical care."
The organization is inviting churches and individuals to participate by praying for maritime workers, hosting dedicated Sea Sunday worship services, and financial giving to fund chaplaincy visits, emergency aid, and communication resources for isolated crews.
Free downloadable resources, including sermon outlines, prayers, and children’s activities, have been made available at missiontoseafarers.org/sea-sunday.
