It was with some sadness in my heart that the Africa Mercy pulled away from the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown at around noon yesterday. Sierra Leone has been my home for the last eight or so months, and I was leaving behind many friends as we sailed into the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
The day started bright and early for those in the Technical departments - Deck and Engineering - as they loaded the last of the vehicles and did final checks on the engines. Shortly after 11h00 we had a complete muster of all the crew prior to the pilot embarking the vessel. The gangway was closed and lifted shortly thereafter and we were soon away from the dock and under our own power in the river. The pilot disembarked and we then did some final lifeboat tests before sailing along the Freetown peninsula - passing the lighthouse at Cape Sierra Leone - and into the open waters of the Atlantic.
I take with me very fond memories of Sierra Leone. It will hold a special place in my heart. I pray that God would continue to bless the people of Sierra Leone as they rebuild their nation. Please also pray for us as we are now sailing a five or so day voyage to our next port of call, Tema in Ghana, for a Christmas break. May God bless you and thanks for following my adventures in Sierra Leone! Here are some more photos from our departure yesterday afternoon.
An empty dock the morning of our departure.
Lifeboat drill and muster.
Pulling away from Freetown's Queen Elizabeth II Quay.
Day Workers and former crew on the dock to wave us off.
The pilot boat approaches...
... Takes the pilot onboard...
... Takes the pilot onboard...
And speeds back to the port.
The faithful Sierra Ferry M/V Bai Bureh docked at Government Wharf. Sierra Ferries were a huge blessing to Mercy Ships during our time here.
Passing the bridge leading into Aberdeen.
The lighthouse on the point at Cape Sierra Leone.
Another view of the lighthouse.
With Candace as we sail into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving Freetown and Sierra Leone behind.
Farewell Sierra Leone! Thanks for everything and may God bless you!
Passing the bridge leading into Aberdeen.
The lighthouse on the point at Cape Sierra Leone.
Another view of the lighthouse.
With Candace as we sail into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving Freetown and Sierra Leone behind.
Farewell Sierra Leone! Thanks for everything and may God bless you!
2 comments:
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and pics Murray. May El-Shaddai continue to pour out His love for the unsaved in your heart!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and pics Murray. May El-Shaddai continue to pour out His love for the unsaved in your heart!
Post a Comment