Our work on ships
The Seamen’s Church began as a pastoral care society for seafarers, and we continue to carry out that mission today. We make ship visits in the ports within our service areas, and our ship chaplains travel on many Finnish ships.
Worldwide, ports are growing and streamlining their operations. Originally, seamen’s churches were built close to the ports, and some still are, but the parts of the port that matter to us can sometimes be far away. The Seamen’s Church minibuses are an essential tool both for reaching the ships and returning from them.
Ship visits are the extended hand of the Seamen’s Church. They provide an opportunity to have pleasant (or serious) conversations and arrange transport to the church or for errands. In many ports, we also provide Mepa (Seamen’s Service Office) services directly to the ship.
Ship chaplains are a uniquely Finnish way of bringing the Seamen’s Church services onboard. The accompanying staff member participates in the daily life of the ship and can, if needed, be a conversation partner for sensitive matters. Increasing well-being at work—both personally and within the workplace—is our mission.
The Seamen’s Church also participates in various Finnish maritime community projects, offering its expertise in mental and spiritual care.
The Nearest Seamen’s Church Is Just a Call Away
There are seven Finnish Seamen’s Churches in Finland and another seven in Europe. In addition, seafarers have access to our global network of seamen’s churches through the ICMA community
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Become a Named Ship Chaplain
We are seeking named ship chaplains for Finnish vessels to work with the Seamen’s Church. Ship chaplains provide spiritual care onboard Finnish ships in cooperation with the shipping company. Sailing takes place mainly in the Baltic Sea on cargo ships, passenger vessels, and icebreakers.
This is a voluntary position and is unpaid. The Finnish Seamen’s Church covers expenses related to the work, including travel, training, and insurance.
Ship chaplaincy provides models for adult and workplace ministry. It allows you to explore new ways to connect with people and learn how to engage in someone else’s work environment. Finnish ships are also multilingual and multicultural communities.
The position is suitable for a theologian, deacon, youth worker, or someone with other relevant qualifications. A few years of work experience in your field is recommended.
Training is provided, including learning debriefing methods. Thematic trainings are offered twice a year. In addition, the actual sailing work is arranged separately, 1–4 times per year depending on the ship’s route.
Send your informal application by email to Jaakko Laasio. Please attach your CV or another description of your work experience and education.
For more information, contact
Jaakko Laasio, tel. 0400 156660, email: jaakko.laasio@merimieskirkko.fi
Mia Haapakorva, tel. 0400 371 574, email: mia.haapakorva@merimieskirkko.fi
Sanna Rasi, tel. 0400 227240, email: sanna.rasi@merimieskirkko.fi
