Murray's Mercy Ship Adventure

Togo Update...

2012-01-30T17:55:00.004+02:00

Well, we are already on the cusp of February and I have not had much chance to keep my blog updated. So, I will give you a run-down on the events that have characterised my life on the AFM since I last blogged some three weeks ago.

Being back in Togo is just like being home. It is such a change from Sierra Leone and it is lovely to be in a nation where everyone remembers who you are and why you are here. I have gone to the market several times and have enjoyed interacting with the street vendors, and have also enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere on the streets – certainly when compared with Freetown’s crowded roads!

This last weekend I went to the Maison Bethany Orphanage, one of the Mercy Ministries I was involved with back in 2010. It was fantastic to be back and to see the children who still remember me! It’s amazing that a bond can be forged across cultural and language lines. We did the story of Joseph and his colourful cloak, and then did a craft where the children decorated a cut-out of Joseph with felt and fabric. After the activity we played games inside while it rained outside, and then once the rain had eased I played soccer with the boys in the garden. It was great to be back!

And then moving to the primary reason we are here: The Hospital. We have had a large influx of medical volunteers over the last two weeks and are preparing to open the Hospital in the next week or so. Tonight is the Hospital Open House – where non-medical crew can experience a taste of what it is like to work in the Hospital – and then on Wednesday we have our main screening event at the national stadium in Lome. This is where we screen for potential patients. We expect several thousand people to turn up, and we will not be able to help them all. But we do pray that everyone who is there on Wednesday – whether we can help them or not – would have a Divine appointment to receive a taste of healing in their lives. Be it spiritually or physically, we pray that God’s will would be done! Your prayers for this event and all that needs to happen that day would be most appreciated!

So that is what has been happening here on the AFM in Togo. I don’t have any other work-related news from my side, other than life in the Purser’s office continues at a brisk pace, and I am very much looking forward to my break back in Cape Town in February and March. It would have been almost 11 months since I was last home – the longest stint away from Cape Town that I have had since joining Mercy Ships in November 2007.

On a personal note, I do have an exciting announcement to make, but it deserves its own post. Stay tuned for that!

Arrival in Togo! (# 2)

2012-01-08T01:20:00.006+02:00

This is the second time in the last two years that I have sailed into Lomé, Togo. The previous time was after a sail of over ten days. This time the sail was only ten hours! And by 18h00 this past Thursday the Africa Mercy was securely tied to our familiar berth in the Port of Lomé.

I am happy to be back in a country that I know so well - but I am much more excited about all the additional people that we can now reach. Some people may have been left two years ago still needing a slice of healing in their lives. They may have felt despair and neglect. But God is faithful and has brought us back to Togo, and we are here to continue the work that was started in 2010. I'm excited to see what's in store this Field Service - are you?

Here are some more photos from our arrival.

We felt very blessed to be given a naval escort into the harbour!

Pilot swings close to the Africa Mercy.

The pilot clambers aboard.

Approaching the Port.

With Candace as we sail towards Togo.

A new harbour tug.

Ships in the port - it is far less busy than Tema.

Heading towards our dock - on the left of picture.

Another older tug stands-by.

Departing Tema...

2012-01-07T12:38:00.006+02:00

It was still early in the morning this past Thursday when the Africa Mercy headed out of the Port of Tema bound for Lome, Togo. Ghana has been good to us and being here has afforded many crew members the opportunity to explore the country. While I didn't spend a night off the ship, I was still able to relax in some pretty awesome surroundings. Thank you Ghana!

Sun rises over the Port of Tema as a tug stands-by.

Pilot boat waits in the harbour.

Mooring lines are cast off.

Heading out towards the sea.

Clearing the main breakwater.

Pilot departs.

And heads back to the shelter of the harbour.

Little fishing canoes approaching.

Rice-sack sails - very innovative here in West Africa!

Exploring Accra...

2011-12-31T23:13:00.011+02:00

Candace and I went out to Accra, the capital city of Ghana, this past Thursday (29th December). I had wanted to do some exploring in the area for a while, and so we left the ship on Thursday morning with a rough idea of where we were going - but no concrete plans.

We drove out along the Beach Road - which runs from Tema to Accra - and it was along this stretch of road that we made our first stop. We came across the coffin showroom that was showcased in Season 17 of The Amazing Race. The competitors in the CBS reality TV series had to push decorated coffins through the streets of Accra as one of their challenges in the Ghanaian capital. It was amazing to see the actual coffins that I'd seen on TV - and more so because they are carved in shapes to commemorate the person's lifestyle: lobsters, trucks, fish, cameras, etc.

From there we drove on into downtown Accra and through the city centre to the poorer - but culturally and historically rich - neighbourhood of Jamestown, on the coast. Here we explored the magnificent, operational lighthouse, and the fishing village. We were given a guided tour of the community and saw the beautiful fishing canoes and met some local children. In contrast to the beauty and vibrancy of the community, we also saw the darker places where in times gone by slaves were loaded onto ships and sailed across the sea. We walked past the Jamestown fort and saw the remaining tracks where carriages transported slaves to the sea, a fading memory of a turbulent past.

We then headed into Accra and stopped at the Post Office and also did some street shopping, before heading back to Tema via the Mall. It was a good day out that gave me a greater appreciation of the historical significance of Ghana - and how proud the locals are of their rich and diverse history.

The coffin showroom along the Beach Road.

Lobster design coffin.

Small fish - sadly, for a child.

Club Beer and Coca-Cola bottles.

The monument to Ghana's Independence.

Jamestown lighthouse, Accra.

Looking down from the lighthouse to Jamestown Fort.

The fishing village from the lighthouse.

The lamp in the lighthouse.

Candace and I at the top.

Looking up inside the lighthouse's winding stairs.

Canoes in the fishing village.

Another view of the Jamestown fishing village.

The door of the Jamestown fort.

Tema-bound, passing the Accra Mall.

Christmas on the AFM...

2011-12-28T13:16:00.006+02:00

Christmas on the Africa Mercy is a special time, and maybe more so than elsewhere. This is because we are here so that we may be Jesus to the world's forgotten poor, and we are all called to Mercy Ships to do exactly that - whether in the Dining Room or in the Operating Theatre. It's our common love that draws us here. And we are all part of a bigger picture - the Great Commission - to be Jesus to a fallen world.

Yes, we do have decorations and trees. But it's much more than that. It's about remembering the sacrifice God made of sending his Son to earth as a baby. It's about remembering all that He did for us on that cruel cross. And it's about being thankful. My prayer is that you experienced God's love this Christmas in a tangible way, and that you'll show that love to your friends and family and those around you throughout the coming year. God bless into 2012!

Here are some more photos of our Christmas here.

Door decorating is one of our Christmas traditions.

Candace's cabin door.

Christmas frosting on the ship shop windows.

Nativity scene near the ship shop.

Gifts outside cabin doors.

Christmas brunch buffet.

There was a large Africa Mercy gingerbread model...

Complete with swimming pool...

And name and port of registry on the stern!

Happy, happy Christmas!

2011-12-22T18:36:00.002+02:00

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a blessed New Year. Much love, Murray & Candace :-)

Arrival in Tema, Ghana!

2011-12-19T18:58:00.006+02:00

After a five-day sail from Freetown, Sierra Leone, the M/V Africa Mercy pulled into the Port of Tema, Ghana, at midday last Thursday. (15th December) Our arrival went smoothly and it was great to see our Advance Team waiting for us on the dock with a big sign welcoming us to Ghana. We have a lovely dock on the main quay of the harbour - our area is fenced and allows us plenty of space to run or walk, or park our Land Rovers.

We are in Ghana for a little more than two weeks now and I've already done some exploring into Tema and the surrounding areas. There is a lovely mall just outside of Accra and it almost feels as if you're in South Africa when you walk around in it - so many South African retailers, like Shoprite, Mr Price, and Game! The road infrastructure is great too, and I think I'm really going to enjoy my short stay in Ghana!

The Tema pilot boat approaches.

Pilot clambers onboard...

... And the pilot boat heads back to port.

Approaching the breakwater.

Tema is one of the largest ports in the region, with a substantial container terminal.

Advance Team waiting on the dock.

Tug stands by to assist in docking procedures, if necessary.

Bunkering at sea...

2011-12-18T13:26:00.005+02:00

Last Tuesday (13th December) the Africa Mercy had her first experience of bunkering at sea. This happens when a tanker comes alongside the vessel on the open ocean and fuels at sea - as opposed to being refueled in a commercial port. It is a process that can be fraught with risk; not only to the vessels and crew involved, but to the environment too. Thankfully both the crews of the Africa Mercy and the Chemical Progress were professional and the process was incident-free.

The refueling was a pretty lengthy, overnight process, taking some 16 or so hours, but we were soon on our way again to Tema, Ghana!

The clear blue waters of the Atlantic as Africa Mercy awaits Chemical Progress.

The tanker approaches followed by a fishing vessel, also waiting to be fueled.

Chemical Progress.

The Bridge - note the little puppy!

Lines are made secure as the ships manoeuvre together.

Crew line the deck to watch proceedings.

Bow of Chemical Progress as seen from the Dining Room windows.

Propeller spins as the tanker departs.

Sailing away...

To refuel yet another waiting ship!

Winter Wonderland 2011...

2011-12-16T00:18:00.009+02:00

Every year, in the last few weeks leading up to Christmas (and usually during the sail), the ship plays host to the Winter Wonderland Christmas market. There are stalls selling homemade jewellry, crafts, cards and gifts, and it allows crew the opportunity to buy small gifts for Christmas day. The Winter Wonderland happened this past Monday, while we were sailing along the coast of West Africa, and loads of fun was had by all the crew.

Christmas wreath in Town Square.

Nativity Scene in the Cafe area.

Christmas Trees in the Midships Lounge.

Crew members enjoying the Winter Wonderland festivities.

Dolphins!

2011-12-14T21:44:00.004+02:00

One of the many joys about sailing is undoubtedly the wildlife encountered out on the open ocean. On Monday we sailed through a pod of literally 100s of dolphins. They put on a spectacular show - jumping, somersaulting, and playing in the waters alongside the Africa Mercy. It was an amazing display of creation glorifying God!

A pair of dolphins come leaping towards the AFM...

Followed by many, many more!

Dolphins swimming alongside the AFM.

Several dolphins followed the AFM for many miles.

Later many dolphins appeared at the bow. They are such beautiful, graceful creatures!

Welcome break...

2011-12-13T15:19:00.005+02:00

One of the most popular places to be during the sail is on the bow, and no time is more popular than directly after supper, when the sun is slowly slipping beneath the waves. Mercy Shippers love to frequent the bow at this time, after a hard day's work. Spontaneous worship music breaks out, as does the laughter and chatter of good friends reliving stories from the last Field Service.

It seems strange but being out on the open ocean, when we are not performing surgeries and healing people, the community onboard seems closer together - for once we don't have a constant stream of arrivals and departures to disrupt our daily lives, and everyone seems content. There are no patients to be concerned about, and those worries seem far away.

The challenges of the past seem but a distant memory when sailing - and as we sail closer to our destination, you almost will the ship to slow down, so that you can savour at least one more day at sea, away from the many complications and difficulties of living in a commercial port. At least, that's certainly how I feel when sailing... But that's just my opinion. I am able to look at the bigger picture and see the greater good for which Mercy Ships stands. I've seen the hope and healing that Mercy Ships provide, and I'm excited for our future Field Services and the 1000s of people we can reach through the amazing tool of the M/V Africa Mercy. As cliched as it is to say (in Mercy Ships circles), I know that Mercy truly is on its way - even when we are enjoying a deserved break!

Farewell Sierra Leone...

2011-12-11T16:18:00.009+02:00

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...

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!

Farewell Pastor Mark...

2011-12-04T00:54:00.003+02:00

I've blogged about them before, but this past Thursday was one of the last times I'd see my amazing friend and brother in Christ, Pastor Mark Sesay. We sail to Ghana soon and it will be very sad leaving Pastor Mark and his wife Bridget. They have been huge blessings to Mercy Ships - and to myself on a personal level. I will miss them and am so very thankful for their diligent work and partnership with us over the past year. I hope to see them again soon!

With Pastor Mark Sesay.

No-Shave November...

2011-12-04T00:18:00.003+02:00

Several crew members took part in No-Shave November this last month. I was one of them, and was very happy when December 1st arrived and I could finally shave off my facial hair. Of course, I decided to have some fun shaving it off...

Stage One: Unshaved...

Stage Two: Foo-man-chu...

Stage Three: Dirty Moustache...

I don't think I'll be sporting either of the above looks for a while, though!

Greg and Becca's Wedding!

2011-11-27T21:44:00.006+02:00

It's always special when God brings a couple together - a common love of serving God through missions and Mercy Ships often has the potential to forge a solid bond. I've seen it happen with many friends here on the ship.

A large proportion of Africa Mercy crew turned out to witness the wedding ceremony of Gregory Kulah and Becca Taylor yesterday afternoon. Greg and Becca met on the ship and are both serving as Long Term crew, and Becca is one of my Gateway sisters from back in June/July 2009.

It was a lovely service followed by a beautiful reception at the Team House. It was great to escape the ship for the day and witness how God brings people together through serving Him. Congratulations Greg and Becca!

On the way to the wedding we passed this vehicle... Now that's quite the decoration!

With Candace at the church. Ignore Alex's fingers in the background. :-)

Hanging out with Phil at the Reception.

With the happy couple. :-)

Day Worker Thank You Celebration...

2011-11-27T13:09:00.005+02:00

It is the end of November and our Field Service in Sierra Leone is slowly winding down. The Hospital has closed and is being cleaned and packed as we make ready for sailing. The last In-Port fire drill happened on Friday morning and the At-Sea muster lists went up on Friday afternoon. Also on Friday was the Day Worker Thank You event.

Mercy Ships employs some 150 - 200 local Day Workers who assist us in our operations in any given port. Some, like Pastor Mark and Bridget, help with our arrivals and departures over at Lungi; others, like Santigie and Patrick, help drive crew to and from the ferry terminal. The Hospital also has many day workers who help in a wide capacity of roles, from translators to launderers and cooks. Deck and Engineering also have many watch keepers and paint-chippers who ensure that the Africa Mercy is kept in tip-top condition for sea.

Thursday was the last day for the vast majority of our day workers and so on Friday we hosted a Thank You celebration to honour our hard-working day workers. There was an amazing African lunch before the official event in the International Lounge. There was lively African worship followed by speeches by the Captain and our Managing Director. Once the function had concluded there was ice-cream in the Cafe area.

It was a great day and made the Mercy Ships family feel very special to be able to partner with so many amazing day workers! I pray that they will continue to bless Sierra Leone in their future endeavours, and may God bless them for all that they have done!

Our Captain addresses the International Lounge.

Ice-cream in Town Square.

Packed cafe area.

Farewells on the dock.

Back to Tacugama...

2011-11-20T00:50:00.013+02:00

For the second time this Field Service I found myself, with a few close friends, headed out overnight to Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary this last weekend. It's no small wonder, since it is definitely my favourite place in Sierra Leone. This is how our lovely weekend unfolded.

We departed the ship at 9am on Saturday morning and arrived too early to check-in for our lodge. So while they prepared the lodge, we decided to walk to Charlotte Falls, about a 90-minute trek away. We walked through the small village of Bathurst, passing the quaint church of St Peters and St James Parish, founded in 1816, on our way to the Falls. The waterfall itself was beautiful, with crystal clear water cascading over the rocks. There was a small pool near the bottom of the falls, where we waded and enjoyed the serenity of the Sierra Leone countryside.

We returned to the Chimpanzee Sanctuary a little after 3pm and checked-in to our Eco-Lodge, Christo. The rest of the afternoon we spent relaxing, reading and napping in the comfortable surroundings, as all around us the birds chirped and the cries of the chimpanzees resonated through the jungle. Supper comprised of spaghetti followed by s'mores roasted by candlelight. It was the perfect end to a great day.

During the night we awoke to the sounds of thunder and the bright flashes of lightning as a storm moved through the night sky. Hard rain pounded the roof and for several minutes sleep was evasive. But soon the rain died away and all was silent, apart from the noise of the jungle insects outside. It is strange to be only an hour outside of the city and yet hear nothing of the city itself. All you can hear are insects, animals and birds. It is so peaceful here.

Sunday morning came and we were brought a lovely traditional breakfast, including grapefruit, bananas, oranges, eggs, bread and butter with jam or cheese. We then had a guided tour of the Sanctuary and it was lovely to see the work they do in rehabilitating the chimpanzees. Most of these chimps had parents who were killed for bushmeat, and the babies were raised as pets in the city. Tacugama rescues these chimps and rehabilitates them for their release into the wild.

After our tour we checked-out and walked down to the Congo Dam, and then headed down to the main road where our driver picked us up. Shortly we were speeding back through the city streets of Freetown, and were dropped outside the port gate near the Africa Mercy. It was a lovely weekend that left the four of us refreshed and ready for the final few weeks here in Sierra Leone.

Tacugama do a wonderful work with Sierra Leone's chimpanzees. Check out their website here. Here are some more photos from our weekend away.

You have entered the Western Area Forest Reserve!

The West African jungle is simply beautiful!

Phil and I survey the scenery from the Falls.

Candace and I.

Christo Eco-Lodge.

S'mores by candlelight.

Clinging on tight!

This plant closes its leaves if you touch them - a defence-mechanism.

Another pretty flower - reminds me of a Red Hot Poker back home but on a smaller scale.

Congo Dam.

Reluctant donor... But definitely worth it!

2011-11-16T21:24:00.005+02:00

Last week - and for the second time this Field Service - I was called upon to donate blood for a patient with a low haemoglobin count. I made my way - rather reluctantly, I'll be honest - down to the Hospital, where I gave my donation. I'm always nervous about donating because I have a fear of those large, nasty needles! But the pain is all worth it knowing that it is a way you can be of service to someone in need.

As I've said before, it is always such a great privilege as a non-medical crew member to serve in this way. It is another way you can connect to the mission of Mercy Ships by giving a literal, life-saving part of yourself to the people we serve.

Resting up having given my unit of blood.

AFM Airport Drivers...

2011-11-14T01:04:00.003+02:00

The Africa Mercy's Purser's office employs a couple of day workers other than Pastor Mark and Bridget over at Lungi. Meet Patrick (centre left) and Santigie (centre right), in this photo with Tim and I. (Photo thanks to David Peterson.)

They often work late to ensure that our arrivals or departures are taken safely to their destination - either the ship for arriving crew or Government Wharf Ferry Terminal for departing crew. They spend many hours fighting the Freetown traffic for Mercy Ships. Thank you Patrick and Santigie!

A wedding... Sierra Leone-style!

2011-11-04T23:58:00.005+02:00

Last Saturday (29th October) a small group of us had the privilege of attending the wedding of one of our day workers here. The wedding ceremony was conducted in a small church 30 or so minutes drive from the ship. It was a long service, lasting some three hours, but it was a privilege to witness how a wedding ceremony is conducted in Sierra Leone. It certainly is different from weddings back home. A wedding in West Africa is very-much an event in which the whole community comes together to celebrate the happy couple's joy. Here are some photos from our day. Most of these images are courtesy of Candace Miller.

Candace and I.

The front of the church.

Children's choir performs.

The happy couple having their wedding photos taken.

Phil and Ali return...

2011-10-31T23:27:00.005+02:00

October saw two of my closest Mercy Ships friends return to the Africa Mercy. Phil and Ali had been away for over a year and the last time I saw them was in Cape Town in September 2010. It's awesome to have them back onboard. Phil will continue serving as an Electrician, and Ali initially as a Ward Nurse. As per my tradition, I made sure I was across at the airport to meet them when they arrived. Welcome home, my amazing friends!

Phil's Air France flight on the tarmac at Lungi International Airport. Ali arrived two weeks ahead of him.

With Phil on the ferry...

And with Ali on the ferry!

Mercy Ships Ultimate: Sierra Leone

2011-10-31T00:35:00.004+02:00

One of the enduring traditions on Mercy Ships is a Friday night game of Ultimate Frisbee. I've been playing Ultimate Frisbee since the end of 2007, and our games of Frisbee have happened throughout many nations in Africa, including Liberia, Benin, Togo, South Africa and now Sierra Leone. Frisbee is a great way to stay fit and attracts a large crowd of enthusiastic players each week. The skills may vary, but everyone is there to have fun and enjoy being outside. It's also often just what's needed after a busy week in the Purser's office!

Here are some more photos from one of our recent games.

Nathan unleashes the disc!

Good to run around, chasing after a disc!

Good Frisbee times!

Forklift fishing...

2011-10-22T13:26:00.007+02:00

There was an accident on the dock last week, which unfortunately culminated in one of our two forklifts coming to rest on the ocean floor. Thankfully no one was hurt, and that must remain our main focus at this time.

The very next day a large crane arrived to fish out our forklift. It was quite the process, involving our divers and deck hands, as well as the outside contract workers. But after a couple of hours our waterlogged forklift appeared from the murky depths of Freetown's natural harbour.

Here are some photos from the morning's events.

The forklift being lowered back onto the dock.

The damage is clearly visible...

... As is the mud from Freetown's seafloor!

University Trek...

2011-10-14T23:52:00.004+02:00

This past Tuesday, after work, I joined a friend in hiking up to the University, perched high above Cline Town (a suburb of Freetown) and the harbour. It was a pretty steep climb, but the view at the top was fantastic. We could see all the way across the river to Targrin Ferry Terminal and the airport at Lungi. It made me appreciate more the bustling city of Freetown and the kaleidoscope of colour that one finds here. It made me appreciate more being able to serve here with Mercy Ships.

Looking down towards the port area - the Africa Mercy is towards the left of shot.

This is Kissi Dockyard below, and the point jutting out across the bay is Targrin Ferry Terminal.

Close-up of the Africa Mercy.

Yep, down there and just out of shot on the left is my home!

Sunset from Targrin...

2011-10-08T07:51:00.005+02:00

I went across the river to the airport last Monday and on the trip back we were treated to a spectacular sunset. Waiting onboard the ferry at Targrin Ferry Terminal, the whole sky turned red as the sun slipped beneath the waves of the Atlantic. I love it when God treats us to such awesome displays of beauty!

The colours were beautiful.

I love the reflection in the waters of the Atlantic.

Cable-layer 'Ile De Sein'

2011-10-07T02:45:00.005+02:00

I have always been fascinated by interesting ships that sail the waters of the world, and one of these vessels pulled into Freetown yesterday (Thursday) morning. The French cable-layer Ile De Sein sailed into Sierra Leone's natural harbour and is here to work on the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) fibre-optic underwater telecommunications system. I may be wrong so feel free to correct me. :-)

This ship is perhaps more well-known in recent times for its role in recovering the flight data recorders, bodies, and other wreckage from the doomed flight AF 447. Air France flight AF 447 crashed in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean on its way from Brazil to France in June 2009, with the loss of 228 lives. The wreckage was only discovered earlier this year.

Sierra Ferry M/V Bai Bureh sails past Ile De Sein on its journey to Government Wharf, Freetown.

Oops!

2011-10-01T23:28:00.006+02:00

There were a number of accidents on the road that leads down to the entrance of the port this past week. Working ports - with large container stackers (TEREX machines) and countless trucks - can be dangerous places. This truck misjudged where the edge of the tarmac ended and tipped into a trench, badly damaging the cab and causing some traffic chaos when the container was removed. It was a good reminder that we do live in a commercial port and need to be aware of the hazards located with such an area.

The container was removed with the help of a TEREX machine, and the wall has already been rebuilt.

Cape Sierra Leone...

2011-09-25T16:14:00.008+02:00

This past Friday I went and visited Brussels Airlines in Aberdeen on purser business. On my drive home I decided to visit the Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse - one of West Africa's oldest lighthouses, having originally been built in 1812. Having grown up in an area of the world known alternatively as the Cape of Storms and the Cape of Good Hope, it is perhaps not surprising that I've always had a deep fascination with the hazards of the sea and the lighthouses that watch these treacherous waters.

Cape Sierra Leone Lighthouse is an impressive structure that guards the entry of Sierra Leone's natural harbour, on the northern tip of Freetown's peninsula. I was told by my guide that the light is currently functional and that there are a couple of lighthouse keepers on duty. But I have also read that the lighthouse doesn't have glass in the lens of the light, and that the only warning to mariners is a static red light that shines out to sea from the top of the tower. When I'm next over at Aberdeen at night I'll drive down and see which story is true.

The road to the lighthouse.

Looking from the lighthouse in the direction of Hotel Barmoi.

View towards Lungi.

Man Of War Bay, Aberdeen.

Close-up of the top of the tower.

Mercy Ships Team House...

2011-09-18T20:11:00.005+02:00

Not every Mercy Shipper in Sierra Leone lives on the Africa Mercy. As we did in Togo, here in Sierra Leone we have on Off-Ship Programmes team who live a stone's throw from the centre of Freetown. They are involved with the Food for Life programme (agriculture and training individuals in sustainable farming practices) and construction projects - such as sanitation and latrine-building - throughout the city and surrounding areas. The Off-Ships team also play host to many Mercy Teams that come during the Field Service. We are blessed by them! Here are some photos of the Team House.

The Team House is situated inside the Swiss Consul compound and thus have access to a pool, tennis courts, and lovely grounds.

The entrance to the Team House.

This is inside the main living room of the Team House.

World Cup supporters all in the same boat...

2011-09-13T21:33:00.007+02:00

The following is an article written to coincide with the Rugby World Cup happening in New Zealand. This story is reproduced here courtesy of the Mercy Ships Southern Africa office. Photos by Liz Cantu of the Africa Mercy Communications team.

Freetown, Sierra Leone. September 9th, 2011. It was a rowdy crowd of international crew that gathered to watch the Rugby World Cup kick-off. The volunteer crew members onboard the hospital ship Africa Mercy live and work closely together, but the gloves are off in good-natured but intense rivalry as soon as the rugby starts.

South Africans join fellow crew members from several other World Cup nations onboard the world’s largest non-governmental hospital ship, cheering for their teams - all thousands of miles from home, in West Africa.

A key element adding to the morale of the 450-strong volunteer crew, who spend ten months a year providing medical charity work in developing nations, is the ability to receive international television programming in developing nations’ ports. Courtesy of a satellite communication dish and decoder donated by a South African in 2006, the South Africans amongst the Mercy Ships crew are scouring the fixtures and zealously following the World Cup games.

Springboks’ supporter Murray Crawford from Cape Town is the Africa Mercy Assistant Purser. A passionate fan, Crawford comments, “For me, what’s so special about watching a rugby game on the Africa Mercy is that you really see the patriotism of the crew come out in a big way. We’ll don our rugby jerseys, get our national flags, paint our faces (if it’s a World Cup), sing our national anthems, and meet in the Midships Lounge to watch together. We may be from different countries, but we are all united in our appreciation of the skills and talents with which God has blessed the players. Of course, sometimes the results don’t go South Africa’s way, and this may include some jokes being sent my way (from the opposition supporters – there are a number of All Black and Wallaby supporters onboard), but it is all done in a spirit of friendship. We are, after all, united in our common purpose to serve God here. But despite this, I’m still hoping that South Africa wins the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand!”

Mr Crawford’s supervisor is a Wallabies devotee. Australian Tim Benson says, “I have never experienced what it is like to watch sport here on the ship anywhere else in the world. No matter what the sport, or the country playing, there pretty much always seems to be avid supporters wanting to cheer on their team. Some of my good friends and colleagues on the ship are South African and New Zealanders, but as soon as the rugby is on, it’s every man/woman for his/her country and everyone else is your 'enemy'. Through-out the game there is cheering and jeering, laughing and crying, but at the end of the day we are all friends again.”

Miriam Tillman from Christchurch, New Zealand, is the Africa Mercy Pharmacist. She particularly enjoys watching the rugby with the opposition supporters. “It is always great fun hassling the South Africans or Australians, especially when there are a few Kiwis around to back me up. Of course they manage to give back in kind. But in the end it is the score that really matters.”

As the TV channel is shared by the whole ship’s community, viewing the All Blacks games can be challenging. Ms. Tillman confesses, “I am planning on ‘stealing’ all my friends TV hours (we only get 4 hours a week each) to book out the channel for the whole World Cup. There will be many an early morning sitting in mid ships with my All Blacks shirt on.”

Mr. Crawford sums up the heart of the matter, “Being able to watch the games while serving in Sierra Leone (or any other West African nation) is such a blessing for the crew. It allows us to connect with our friends back home who are also watching the same game, at the same time. We can feel part of the millions of fans around the world who are linked by their common love for the sport of rugby.” The Springboks are the current Rugby World Champions.

Rainy Season...

2011-09-08T21:02:00.005+02:00

So we are now at the very tail end of rainy season, but we have had some amazing storms over the last few months. And when these storms come, does it rain! We were driving home from Bunce Island back towards the end of July when the heavens opened and it poured down on us. As you can see from these photos, the road can quickly become inundated with fast-flowing water!

Negotiating the waterlogged roads of Freetown.

Anyone for some nice soggy leather furniture?

Two Years...

2011-09-03T21:30:00.005+02:00

It was on this day, two years ago, that I arrived in Cotonou, Benin, to begin my long-term service with Mercy Ships. During these two years I have had the great privilege of serving the Lord in Benin, Tenerife, Togo, Ghana, South Africa, and Sierra Leone. I have even sailed into my hometown, Cape Town, and shown my family my floating home!

It has been quite the adventure and I am so thankful for this opportunity God has given me with Mercy Ships. My journey is far from over, and thanks must go to my amazing supporters who have given so much of themselves over the years to make this all possible. This journey that God is leading me on is just as much your journey as it is mine! All glory to God!

Standing on the dock in Cotonou, Benin, on the day I arrived back. 3rd September 2009.

Sailing into Cape Town, 13th February 2011.

Rugby World Cup 2011...

2011-09-01T00:06:00.003+02:00

Next Friday (9th September 2011), the IRB Rugby World Cup kicks off in New Zealand. The world's biggest rugby tournament sees a total of 48 matches being played up until (and including) the final on 23rd October. Being a passionate South African sports supporter, I will be donning my South African rugby jersey and waving my flags, as the South African national team, the Springboks, look to defend their title as reigning World Champions. I won't be watching the World Cup alone, though. There are a number of ardent rugby fans represented on the ship - fans primarily from New Zealand, Australia, England, and South Africa. It'll be an amazing rugby spectacular - as long as the Sprinboks are crowned World Champions on 23rd October! :-p

Busiest week...

2011-08-28T15:18:00.003+02:00

It's been a crazy last few weeks, but I can finally get back to my blogging! My time in the Purser's hot seat has been challenging, but good. I have certainly been stretched in many different ways, and the number one positive outcome from this time is that I have learned that I can actually do this role if I am called upon to do it.

This last week was perhaps one of my most challenging weeks. It all started on Monday afternoon when I was across the river at Lungi seeing the 15 departing crew check-in for their Brussels Airlines flight. I was at the airport having some passports re-stamped and I was also there to see a very good friend return to Mercy Ships.

I was able to do my Purser business and I was standing with Pastor Mark and Bridget when an overhead announcement was made that the incoming flight SN 225 from Brussels and Banjul was cancelled. A rock had hit the engine as the plane was taking off from Banjul to Freetown and they had to ground the plane. Long story short, our 15 departures had to head back to the ship that night and our arrivals - including my friend - were stranded in Banjul.

Having heard what had happened, I am so thankful that all on the plane in Banjul were all right. The plane was speeding along, about to take-off, when the incident occurred and could have been much worse, had they got even a little further down the runway. As it was, they were able to stop just before the very end of the tarmac. God was definitely watching over that plane! The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (Deuteronomy 33: 27.)

We expected that the next day the flight would come again - after a technician was sent to fix the plane - but alas the plane was still deemed unsafe for flight and was grounded another night. This after we'd sent our departures across the river for a second time. They returned to the ship again in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Wednesday saw many of our departing crew switch to British Midland International - which flies direct to London Heathrow. A small number remained with SN Brussels and the plane in Banjul was repaired and finally landed in the early hours of Thursday morning. I was there at the ferry terminal to meet the arrivals and my good friend, whose arrival at the ship had been delayed over two days. They were very happy to finally make it to the ship!

So that was my busy week - trying to liaise with Brussels Airlines and keep our crew aware of the very fluid situation we were facing. It was a challenge, but praise God it all worked out. And now that the Staff Purser is back from his vacation, I can breathe again and settle back into the role of Assistant Purser - phew!

Africa Mercy Independent Film Festival...

2011-08-17T22:30:00.008+02:00

The Africa Mercy Independent Film Festival happened in the International Lounge last night. This event occurs once a year and crew members are encouraged to make short films for the occasion. These are then entered into the competition, evaluated by a panel of judges, and premiered before the whole crew. Awards are presented in the categories of Best Comedy, Best Choreography, Best Drama and Best Picture, to name but a few.

The film festival is also one of those few events on the ship where crew can dress up in their most formal attire. We do have some amazingly good-looking people here on the Mercy Ship! :-)

Us boys put an entry into the competition, So You Think You Can Dance - Sierra Leone, which is a Mercy Ships take on the classic TV show. It involved a cast of over twenty dancers, all dancing to different styles of music. It was really fun to make and we were extremely happy to take the Best Picture award!

Beau - our amazing MC for the night!

AMIFF 2011

The crew await the screening in the packed International Lounge.

The panel of judges gets introduced.

Our film took Best Picture - thanks to all who put in such amazing hard work!

The four Creative Consultants - Jeff, Me, Christoph and Nick - with our trophy.

With Jay - our Editor.

New month, new responsibility...

2011-08-08T00:16:00.005+02:00

Apologies for the infrequent posting, but things have been really busy lately. The Purser left last Monday for a well-deserved break and I am filling in as the acting Staff Purser of the M/V Africa Mercy while he is on holiday.

I have spent most of my days down at our shipping agent working on clearance paperwork for our incoming containers, as well as signing for crew mail, and overseeing the Reception Team on the ship. I am also still retaining some of my Assistant Purser responsibilities, such as liaising with Pastor Mark and Bridget over at Lungi regarding the arrivals and departures.

This past Thursday I had my first Fire Drill as the first-in-charge of Muster Control and that, for the most part, went well. There were a few minor issues, but that is why we drill - so that we can learn from our mistakes. And, of course, be better prepared should a real emergency situation arise.

So that's a little slice of what I've been up to in my role on the ship this last week. Quite busy, but I am enjoying this opportunity that I have to gain some valuable experience for the future!

Another farewell...

2011-07-31T17:00:00.009+02:00

Almost a week ago my friend Jamie, who had served in the Academy as a Summer Programme Assistant, left the Africa Mercy. It was very sad saying goodbye to her, but I am thankful for the time we had getting to know each other. I had some purser business to do at the airport, and so I was able to accompany the departures all the way across.

That's the one thing I'll never get comfortable with serving on Mercy Ships - the constant stream of farewells. But then again we aren't really called to lead a comfortable life as missionaries, are we?

The AFM is caught in a ray of light as the sun slips behind the clouds.

Sunset from Targrin Ferry Terminal.

Bunce Island...

2011-07-26T22:06:00.008+02:00

This past Saturday a small group of us headed out to one of the most significant historical sites in Sierra Leone: Bunce Island. This is the location of an old 18th-Century British slave castle, perched on a strategic wooded island at the limit of navigation for ships sailing up the river. It was here that ocean-going slave ships met the traders from the hinterland to collect their cargo of men, women and children.

Although a crumbling ruin now, many parts of the castle are still visible and as we clambered out of our canoe and onto the island, I could really feel the dark history of the past. We were given a tour and as we walked in amongst the ruins it was easy to picture how this place looked some 250 years ago.

I could see the soldiers standing next to the cannon on the battlements, in readiness to prevent any attack from the sea. I could see many African men and women being marched into the castle, never to taste freedom again. I could hear the cries as families were torn apart - separated into male and female sections of the fortress. I could see the men and women getting flogged and beaten. I could hear the shouts and calls of traders, as they prepared slaves for an arduous - and devastating - voyage across the seas. I could smell the stench of death wafting across the waters from the waiting slave ships. I could see death and despair. Indeed, the people torn from their homes and loaded onto the ships had only a 1 in three chance of surviving the journey to (primarily) America.

But I could also see hope on the horizon. In 1807 the British Parliament made the slave trade illegal, and in the following years the Royal Navy sent out regular patrols from Freetown to intercept illegal slave ships and free their precious cargo. The tide had turned against slavery.

The ruined castle is in much need of preservation and I believe it should be renovated and saved before the decay becomes too great. The trees (pictured here) are already becoming intertwined with the structure of the buildings. Bunce Island must stand as a lasting reminder that such an ugly, destructive trade should never happen again. And as the sign welcoming you to Bunce Island puts it,

"With gratitude to God we wish to honour the brave African Men and Women who endured the Cruelty of Slavery..... This island stands as a testament to their memory and to the triumph of the human spirit."

Looking back towards the mainland and our Land Rover as we head off across the waters to Bunce Island.

The canoe (with an outboard motor) that transported us to the island.

Although having been partly submerged for centuries, a cannon is still easily recognisable on the shore.

A cannon, its carriage long since disintegrated, sits guarding the battlements.

Inside the castle grounds...

... You have to be careful of spiderwebs!

Peering out from inside the castle's powder magazine.

The island also has a couple of old cemeteries. This is the African cemetery...

... And this is one of the graves in the European cemetery. The graves date from the 1750s.

Jamie walks along a pretty path.

Heading back towards the mainland...

... Where we were met by a crowd of sweet local children!

Sunset above Freetown...

2011-07-24T17:10:00.004+02:00

This past Wednesday I joined some friends in driving to the top of a hill overlooking the city of Freetown, from where we watched the sun set. It was so beautiful! The hill gave a great vantage point of downtown Freetown right through to Aberdeen in the west, and across the bay to Lungi in the north.

The view towards Lungi.

Lourens surveys the Freetown scenery.

The sunset was pretty spectacular.

The sun dips behind some low-lying clouds.

My friend Jamie and I.

Pastor Mark's church...

2011-07-20T01:12:00.004+02:00

This past Sunday, as the rain poured down on Freetown, a small group of us caught the ferry across to Lungi to visit Pastor Mark and Bridget at their church. We had a lovely time worshipping with his church family and after the service they blessed us with a wonderful meal. I also had the privilege of being able to introduce the crew present and also share my testimony about how God led me to Mercy Ships. The photo here is of me sharing with Pastor Mark.

And while the transport coming back was rather unreliable - the Government Ferry was meant to depart at 14h00 but only left after 17h00 - we still had an amazing time together. We were back onboard Africa Mercy by 18h30, having left 12 hours previously. Would I do it again? Absolutely!

Sailing past the AFM on a wet and rainy Sunday morning in July.

Freetown Traffic...

2011-07-17T21:58:00.006+02:00

Freetown traffic is something else. If it's not the other cars you're dodging, it's the pedestrians in the street! The population of Freetown has almost doubled in the last ten years, meaning that the city's existing infrastructure is unable to cope with all the extra vehicles and people. And if it's not the pedestrians or the cars, it's the physical state of the vehicles themselves which is something else - like the truck in the photos below!

Nothing like a traffic jam on Goderich Street!

Approaching a dodgy-looking truck - look at the angle the trailer is at!

Passing very quickly!

Pastor Mark & Bridget...

2011-07-16T11:33:00.003+02:00

Meet Pastor Mark and Bridget, our representatives who do an AMAZING work over at the Lungi (airport) side of the river. They work tirelessly for Mercy Ships ensuring that all crew who arrive are met at the airport and transported to the ferry, and that those departing are taken safely to the airport. They are Mercy Ships heroes!

Bonfire on the beach...

2011-07-13T16:49:00.004+02:00

This past weekend a small group of us piled into two Land Rovers and headed to an "undiscovered" beach an hour from the ship. We had a bonfire and roasted viennas and dough, and also had a lovely time sharing campfire stories and walking along the beach. It was a beautiful day - and refreshing, too.

An amazing chameleon Ryan found near the beach.

Ryan, fellow South African, gets the fire going.

Cooking our viennas and dough.

Our own private beach!

The clouds take on a pink tinge as the sun sinks lower.

With my friend Jamie.

Another reason why our divers are HEROES!

2011-07-11T01:23:00.004+02:00

Yes, that is the water down there... Thank you Dive Team for keeping the ship's vents clear of all this debris!

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

2011-07-05T18:25:00.015+02:00

Some weekends are simply perfect - and this past weekend was one of those. Eight of us Mercy Shippers headed off on Saturday morning to the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, located deep in the heart of the Western Area National Park in the hills above Freetown, for a weekend away from the bustle of ship life.

When we arrived at the Sanctuary we went and watched some of the chimps playing whilst our lodges were prepared, and then waited some more for a massive thunderstorm to subside before heading to the Eco-Lodges. These were some of the best self-catering accommodations I have encountered in West Africa, and we spent most of Saturday afternoon in the girl's lodge (the biggest one), chatting and playing Mafia while the storm raged outside. By 16h00 the rain had finally let up and we trekked out to do some exploring. We walked down to the Kongo Dam and enjoyed the beautiful scenery of this largely unspoiled area.

After a while we strolled back to the Lodge and Tim cooked an amazing Thai feast (I helped a little too) and we all sat around the table enjoying good food and fellowship together. It was the perfect end to an amazing day.

Sunday dawned much brighter than the previous day, and after a hearty breakfast we decided to have a guided tour of the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, and that was very interesting. We witnessed the rangers feeding the chimps and saw how they communicate with them too!

Our final adventure of the weekend was a lovely hike to the large waterfall in the valley. It was really picturesque. While we were finishing up taking photos and marvelling at the scenery, a man approached us holding some handcuffs. Now this could instill a number of emotions in one, but thankfully he wasn't there to arrest us. He informed us that they were about to shoot an action scene for a new Sierra Leonean movie, Digging His Own Grave, which required the police actors to chase another actor down the side of the waterfall. We were asked if we all wanted to be extras in the scene, but we politely declined, as we needed to head back to the Sanctuary. It would have also perhaps been a scriptwriter's headache having to write in a new scene with eight white people randomly standing around - at short notice, too.

Walking back we came across thousands of termites flying into the air, which was pretty spectacular. We were back at Tacugama by 14h30 and shortly thereafter our taxis arrived and we were speeding back to Freetown and the ship. And so ended a magical weekend - yet another amazing weekend spent in beautiful Sierra Leone.

The Wildlife Office at Tacugama.

The lodge where Tim and I stayed.

Really comfortable accommodation.

The rain really came down hard on Saturday afternoon...

... Which meant for fun times chatting on the veranda.

But it did let up long enough to allow us to go exploring...

This is Kongo Dam, one of Freetown's water facilities.

It's really pretty here.

The next day the weather was lovely and allowed us to see the chimpanzees!

Here they are in one of the larger enclosures.

After seeing the chimps, we went off on a hike to a nearby waterfall.

The power of the water is phenomenal!

Group shot by the waterfall. Good times!

Farewell Peets!

2011-07-03T21:58:00.003+02:00

This last Thursday our lovely Peet family - my ship family here on the ship - left after seven years service with Mercy Ships. Here Tim and I say farewell to them at Government Wharf.

They will be missed by so many!

A sign that was hung off Deck 7 for the Peets.

Observing Surgery...

2011-07-01T01:19:00.007+02:00

Mercy Ships crew have a rare privilege of being able to sign up to observe a surgery once every field service. Since the last time I observed surgery was almost exactly three years ago, I felt it was definitely time to see for myself the physical healing occurring in our Hospital.

So this past Monday I donned scrubs and headed for the Operating Rooms where my surgeon friend Dr Mark Shrime was undertaking a max-fax tumour removal. But before I entered his OR, I first witnessed a couple of cataract removals. This is such a simple procedure that the surgeon, from start to finish, is able to complete the surgery in eleven minutes flat! And it is really special that these people who were once blind can now see!

I then made my way into Dr Mark's OR where the tumour removal was getting underway. This tumour had caused the lower jaw and teeth of this young girl to be pushed out of place, and thus the skilled surgeon had to remove both tumour and lower jaw. He replaced the jaw with a titanium plate - the new jaw (with bone from the hip) will be grafted on this plate in the coming months. Even as they stitched the face together again the transformation was already visible!

The last surgery I witnessed was a hernia repair and that was also very interesting. I am so in awe of our skilled surgeons who perform many operations every day. They are true heroes.

My trip to observe surgery really showed me what an amazing honour it is to serve here on the Africa Mercy. As a non-medical crew member I can sometimes forget why we are here, but this brought it right home again! There is healing happening on those wards, and those who were outcasts will now lead productive lives! This excites me!

Skilled hands at work in the Operating Theatre.

Surgeons, anaesthesiologist, and nurses all hard at work.

US Coast Guard in Sierra Leone...

2011-06-29T00:53:00.004+02:00

While I was taking the ferry over to Lungi last week I noticed a ship pretty far out of its own territorial waters. It was the US Coast Guard Cutter Forward, docked along the port from the Africa Mercy. I'm not sure what mission she is on, but I was certainly excited to see a US Coast Guard vessel in real life since I've only ever seen them in the movies or on documentaries. I think these cutters, although rather old, are some of the prettiest ships afloat.

US Coast Guard Cutter Forward (WMEC 911)

Bye-Bye Ben!

2011-06-26T00:51:00.005+02:00

This past Thursday my friend and cabinmate for the last two-years, Ben Calvert, departed. Ben served in the Academy as a High School Teacher and PE Specialist and did an amazing job in all that he did. It was sad to see him go but I am excited for all that God has in store for him and his future wife Hannah! (Photo: Ben removes his name tag off the door of cabin 4330.)

I had to do some purser business at the airport so I accompanied Ben all the way across the river on the ferry. Here we are as we pass the AFM.

Quiz Night!

2011-06-25T23:10:00.005+02:00

The last two Tuesdays have seen a new tradition emerge on the Africa Mercy - Quiz Night! Teams of four compete in a general knowledge-based quiz on topics such as Science, Name the Movie, Name the City, Music, as well as a round entitled "What part of the AFM is this photo from?" and many others.

It's really fun and competitive too, as teams battle each other in some pretty impressive costumes. I did not take part in the first Quiz Night, but last week a group of us formed a team, the Mercy Parsnips, and came in a respectable second that night.

As you can see, this was a popular event!

The Facebooks definitely had the most innovative, impressive outfit!

4 Nations... 5 Blood Donations!

2011-06-22T00:09:00.005+02:00

This past Sunday I got a message on my pager - "1734". I knew who it was without having to check. It was the lab, and they needed my blood. A patient scheduled for surgery the next day had a rather low haemoglobin count of 7.3, and it can be risky performing surgery on someone with such a low count.

My one unit (450 mls) flowed out in four minutes and, after the customary photo of me holding my blood, was taken to the patient. And after the unit of my blood, his haemoglobin count jumped up nearly three points to 10.2 - much healthier!

It's always a privilege and so fulfilling - especially as a non-medical person - to be able to donate blood and serve the Hospital in this way. This was my 5th blood donation on the Africa Mercy. I donated twice in Liberia in 2008, once in Benin (2009), once in Togo (2010) and once now in Sierra Leone! Here's to many more blood donations into the future!

With my unit of O-Pos blood.

Have you seen a smaller bottle of Coke?

2011-06-21T00:57:00.004+02:00

I was browsing through one of the supermarkets here in Freetown and came across this bottle of Coke.

It's glass and holds 200 mls of Coca-Cola, and is manufactured in the UK. I've never seen such a miniature bottle of Coke!

Scotland The Brave!

2011-06-19T20:04:00.005+02:00

This last Friday was my cabinmate Ben's final game of poker (we have a group that meet every Friday for a friendly game) and, being from Scotland, he decided on the dress-up theme of Scotland for the tournament. It was good fun as many of us wore "kilts" and donned face paint in the blue and white of Saint Andrew's Cross. I decided to paint my face for my good friend.

I thought about going for the "Braveheart" look, but decided the flag was easier.

Ben wore his Scotland rugby jersey and his large Scottish flag draped over his shoulders.

Full circle...

2011-06-19T00:10:00.006+02:00

It is a season of farewells here on the Mercy Ship and this last week many of my closest friends departed. These were friendships forged back in Gateway of June-July 2009 and from my initial time back on the ship in September 2009. There are too many to name, but if you are one of those who have left in the last week - or more - know that you are loved and missed! The photo here is of me with Amy and Sam - who head home to Chicago.

With Estelle, Danae and Christina - three of my Gateway sisters who left.

This time next week it'll be just the two in uniforms left. Sam left this last Thursday and Ben leaves this coming Thursday. Tim and I remain.

Global Day of Prayer...

2011-06-14T00:20:00.005+02:00

It was the Global Day of Prayer - 12th June 2011 - yesterday. And because of this we held a special International service onboard last night. The Global Day of Prayer originated in Cape Town, South Africa, and therefore the South African crew had the honour of opening the service. We went up front with our flags and vuvuzelas and showed our nation's spirit by singing a couple of worship songs in isiXhosa, Zulu and English, and praying in Afrikaans! South Africa is indeed a diverse country with eleven official languages! The photo here is of the SA crew up front - I'm in the back row in the green SA Cricket shirt.

Each continent then had the opportunity to go and do a song item and prayer in their native language. It was so special to see and hear crew from each of the different continents praising God and praying in their own tongues. And yet again, it underlined to me how awesome it is to serve God in such a multicultural, international environment!

Some of the SA crew in Town Square.

Yeah for patriotic SA crew members serving with Mercy Ships!

Freetown scenes...

2011-06-11T22:58:00.007+02:00

It was a ship's holiday on Friday - which means we're having a lovely long weekend. And so we went for a walk through the market and into downtown Freetown yesterday. It was lovely to get out and about and see some more of Freetown's culture, buildings and scenery. Here are some photos from our walk - starting with the one at left of me with a group of happy, friendly children!

This is the Clock Tower - pretty-much in the centre of the market.

An impressive cannon near Government Wharf.

A beautiful church also near Government Wharf.

I couldn't believe it when we came across a really well-preserved English Post Box!

Lovely old architecture.

And on one of the walls outside Freetown's port a new mural is slowly appearing - the Africa Mercy!

Sierra Leone Driver's Licence...

2011-06-09T00:54:00.003+02:00

Here in Sierra Leone ship drivers have two options if they want to be able to drive a Mercy Ships vehicle (or any vehicle) legally.

Option 1: They can either apply for an International Driver's Licence and carry that with their own driver's licence from their home nation.

Option 2: Apply for a local Sierra Leonean driver's licence!

Since I already have an International Driver's Licence that I got through the AA (Automobile Association) of South Africa when we were in Durban, I can drive legally without having to get the local one. But come on, how often do you have the opportunity to own a driver's licence issued by another country? So a group of us went to the Sierra Leone Road Transport Authority and had our new licences issued earlier today.

It's pretty handy because with this licence (valid for five years) I am able to drive in any of the 15 ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) countries! Just another interesting day serving on the Mercy Ship!

Here I am with my new Sierra Leone Licence.

Sugar Loaf Mountain...

2011-06-05T16:43:00.005+02:00

Yesterday a group of us hiked up one of the highest mountains in the vicinity of Freetown, Sugar Loaf Mountain. It was a rather challenging hike, especially since the rain that fell overnight made the rocks quite slippery. Many of us ended up sliding on our backsides for a while! But despite that, it was really BEAUTIFUL! And it was such a blessing to get off the ship and do some solid exercise and make some new friends too!

Looking down towards Freetown and Aberdeen - as we drive to the mountain.

Big houses in the centre of the peninsula.

Heading up the slopes of the mountain.

Spot the stick insect!

Scenic view in the direction of Freetown.

Looking out towards Bureh and Kent Beach...

... And Banana Island in the distance.

Relaxing on the rocks.

Heading back down the mountain.

Lush tropical vegetation.

Car wreck...

2011-06-01T22:48:00.007+02:00

We were driving along the busy Freetown streets last weekend and came across what looked like a fatal accident. I mean, a car is speeding along a bridge, is clipped by another vehicle, goes into a spin and careers through the safety barriers, over the edge of the bridge. (That's what we were told had happened.)

Look at the car. Look at the devastation wrought to the building. It must be fatal. And yet praise God we were told that the driver and his two passengers escaped with only minor injuries, and there was no one in the building. Now for me, that is definitely a miracle!

At first glance, I struggled to see the car amongst the wreckage!

Ah, there it is!

Nursery Rhyme dress-up...

2011-05-30T23:59:00.005+02:00

Whenever we play games on the ship, we often decide to have a dress-up theme - just for the fun of it. This last Friday a group of us played some card games and the theme was Nursery Rhyme characters! I was dressed up as Humpty Dumpty - and I even shaved my head for the occasion. Note the cracks and egg yolk! There was also the Itsy-Bitsy Spider, Little Jack Horner, the Farmer's Wife, Little Boy Blue, and the Three Blind Mice in attendance! It was another fun evening that highlighted the awesome community spirit of the Africa Mercy.

Itsy-Bitsy Spider...

The Queen of Hearts...

The Three Blind Mice...

Little Bo-Peep and her sheep.

Ship Birthdays...

2011-05-29T01:21:00.004+02:00

Whenever a Mercy Ships crew member has a birthday on the ship, there are always some traditions that are adhered to:

At lunch or dinner, the ship's bell in the Dining Room is rung in honour of the crew member whose birthday it is, and the whole crew sing "Happy Birthday" to the birthday boy or girl.
Their cabin door is usually decorated with balloons and streamers.

This past Wednesday a couple of my good friends shared a birthday, and so we had a joint-surprise party for them. We shared cake, stories and played some fun games. It's another one of those things that really highlights to me that my friends here are family too.

Where Land Rovers go to die...

2011-05-28T01:30:00.002+02:00

On a corner along Freetown's busy streets, there is a place where many Land Rovers are in various stages of degradation. Can you spot the old Mini in the below shot?

Beautiful Sunset...

2011-05-25T23:32:00.002+02:00

Some days you walk out onto Deck 8 after supper and are met by this sight... No more words - I'll let the photos convey God's glory.

Anyone for some fish?

2011-05-22T01:15:00.004+02:00

Today I went to Bureh Beach with some friends. We had some African food, prepared by the locals, as we watched the waves wash up the beach. It was a lovely meal (they make an amazing peanut sauce for the rice), but I must say my piece of freshly-caught fish was rather disconcerting. It was definitely the first time I've received a whole fish head complete with eyes and teeth!

Hmmm, lovely African food!

It may not have looked appetising, but it sure tasted good!

I look rather enthusiastic about my fish head.

Sierra Ferries...

2011-05-18T22:45:00.010+02:00

A while back I blogged about the water taxi we use for our arrivals and departures. Well, we are no longer using that company, but are now using the new Sierra Ferry to assist with our arrivals and departures. The ferry itself is Government-owned, but the company that operates it is an independent, privately-owned company. This ferry operates a service from Government Wharf, Freetown, across the river to Targrin, on the Lungi (airport) side.

Today Tim and I went and did a trial run, taking one Land Rover with us, because we needed to go to the airport to meet immigration officials there. The trip went really well and we were very impressed by Sierra Ferries - the vessel is in very good condition and there are life rafts and other safety equipment on the ferry.

We pray that the arrival and departure process will be stress-free for crew with the use of Sierra Ferries! It was certainly a relaxing trip across the river for us.

Here are some more photos from our trip across the river.

Driving our Land Rover onto the ferry.

Got to give it plenty of juice!

Life rafts on the ferry.

We were impressed by the well-maintained Man Overboard Boat it carries.

Government Wharf.

Freetown scenery.

Passing the Africa Mercy docked in Freetown...

... And leaving her off our starboard quarter.

Early morning fires add to the hazy atmosphere of Freetown.

Approaching Targrin Ferry Terminal on the Lungi side of the river.

This is the older Government Ferry.

The two ferries alongside one another at Targrin.

Airport business done... Time to head back!

Freetown-bound!

Passing the Port of Freetown again.

And back we are at Government Wharf!

Love and Good Deeds...

2011-05-17T00:28:00.007+02:00

I feel as if whenever I am learning an important lesson - like how to walk in step with God - something always tries to derail the process. And honestly, it's usually me.

I have lately been really challenged by a passage in Hebrews 10 which says:

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

(Hebrews 10: 24)

As a result of this, I have been looking for ways in which I can bless my friends in order that they may be spurred on toward love and good deeds. I can encourage them by being there, listening, and praying for my friends. The sky's the limit when it comes to how I can bless people!

And yet last week I messed up and I did not live out this truth. My pride was stung by something pretty small and insignificant and I overreacted by saying something sarcastic to a friend. It wasn't major, but it was hurtful, and I knew that. My sarcasm can be pretty brutal sometimes. On the one hand, I can use it to joke around and have fun with friends - and I can actually use it to build people up. But those rare occasions when I bring it out with different motives in my heart are the worst. It can be pretty destructive!

It was a real eye-opener how my stung pride can really be rather harmful. Thankfully, my friend is big enough to forgive me when I have these Murray moments of madness. In this whole scenario, I certainly was not spurring the individual on to love and good deeds. I was instead creating a rift and animosity - I was breaking down love and good deeds.

It's time to get back on track and spur one another on towards love and good deeds!

International Nurses Day...

2011-05-13T22:16:00.005+02:00

It was International Nurses Day on the ship yesterday (12th May). Of course, being a hospital ship, we rely heavily on medical personnel, and none more-so than the many wonderful nurses who serve here. This is Liz, one of those wonderful nurses.

I am so very thankful to have the honour of knowing so many amazing nurses who see their work as a special call from God. They truly make a lasting impact in the lives of the patients on the hospital deck - and the general crew on other decks too! Thank you Nurses for all you do!

If you're interested, International Nurses Day commemorates the birth of Florence Nightingale, the forerunner of modern nursing. For more, click here.

(I was going to post this on the day itself, but unfortunately issues with Blogger meant that I was unable to - as well as meaning that the post I wrote about the Academy Creative Arts fair has temporarily disappeared. Oh well. Hopefully it will turn up soon.)

Academy Creative Arts Fair...

2011-05-12T16:03:00.000+02:00

Last night the Academy hosted the Creative Arts Fair, in which the students were given an opportunity to show the rest of the crew what they have been learning in their classes. There were musical interludes as well as displays of colourful artwork. As always, it was an honour to see how the hardworking teachers of the Academy bless the crew through what they do - and through the skills that are being learned by the students. If you are a teacher and would like to try something different for a year or two, why not volunteer to teach a truly international class on the Mercy Ship. You will not be disappointed!

The evening started in Town Square with musical recitals from some of the students...

Followed by the choir singing "Let My People Go".

Then the evening moved on to the Academy itself, where there were many interesting displays - including this "City Cell", a Lego city comparison of how a cell functions.

The Energy Plant/Mitochondria unit. Not sure about how much energy McDonalds gives though!

There was also many different examples of painting and drawing techniques on display. This is Op Art.

These works are inspired by Romero Britto of Brazil.

More art with an African theme.

Painted bits of wood showing places that are close to home for the students.

Wire sculptures... One of my favourite ones was this one. But that's no real surprise, is it?

Crew members enjoy being blessed by the Academy. Thank you Teachers and Students of the Mercy Ships Academy!

Heroes!

2011-05-10T22:08:00.003+02:00

Last month I blogged about our volunteer divers and the great job that they do for the Mercy Ship. Well, I think this picture taken earlier today sums up that blog post pretty well! They have to put up with some pretty horrendous diving conditions!

Photo snapped by Charles Davies.

Sunset from the dock...

2011-05-09T00:37:00.004+02:00

Last week there was an amazing sunset. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera with me at the time, and the next day when I was out with my camera the sunset was rather disappointing. But these are the photos I snapped anyway. I was more interested in trying to capture the birds flying low over the water, heading home to roost. I'm blown away how God times everything - from the sunrise to the sunset - and how he is in control of every event on this planet we call Earth. I'm also so inspired by how much of a creative genius our Saviour is!

The sun slipping slowly into the West African sky.

Coastal birds fly home with the setting sun.

Freetown at dusk.

Freetown Waste Management...

2011-05-06T23:43:00.004+02:00

Several times a week the Freetown City Council come and remove our rubbish from our dumpster at the end of the dock. We really appreciate them coming down and helping us in this way. Freetown is a beautiful city and has such potential for more and I really hope that the public take the words on the side of the truck to heart - "Keep the city clean".

Royal Wedding AFM-style!

2011-04-30T00:41:00.004+02:00

The crew of the Africa Mercy joined the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth of Nations in celebrating the Royal Wedding held earlier today. We were able to watch the service live thanks to the BBC and our DSTV satellite system and the Town Square area was the place to be throughout the morning. In the evening the British crew onboard hosted a street party in the Midships area where we had quintessentially British cupcakes and chocolates.

Crew from many different nationalities watch the service live.

Union Jack-decorated cupcakes.

Close-up of the cupcakes.

This says it all...

2011-04-30T00:12:00.003+02:00

In Community Meeting last night we had a focus on prayer for Sierra Leone as they celebrate 50 years of Independence from Great Britain. This is the large map of Sierra Leone in the Town Square area of the ship where we could share our prayers for this great nation.

Celebrating 50 years of Independence!

2011-04-27T23:26:00.003+02:00

Sierra Leone celebrates their 50th anniversary of Independence from Britain today.

Over the last months people have been painting some streets in the national colours (green, white and blue) and there is festive bunting draped across many of the main roads in the city. There have even been cleaning days on Saturdays in which the whole population are encouraged to take pride in their city and clear the streets of rubbish and other pollution.

I didn't see any of the festivities as I was on the ship working the whole day, but I believe that there is quite a party atmosphere out on the streets. Happy 50th Independence Sierra Leone!

On a side note, South Africa also celebrated 17 years of democracy today. It is Freedom Day back home - commemorating the first democratic elections held back on the 27th April 1994. Happy Freedom Day in South Africa too!

Diving for Mercy...

2011-04-25T18:41:00.006+02:00

So often at Mercy Ships we focus (and usually justifiably so - since this is what we are all about) on those who do the amazing work down in the Hospital, but I want to cast some light on those who ensure that the Hospital is kept running through their selfless acts. This includes those who give up their free time (even on ship holidays - like today) to ensure that the intakes for our engine room cooling systems and air-conditioning are kept clear of debris.

The divers take to the water at least once a week to do this important task - and it is really appreciated! Some are nurses, receptionists, electricians and workers in our transportation department - but all sacrifice their time to ensure that the Mercy Ship continues to reach those who need hope and healing most!

Thank you divers for all that you do!

The divers on the port side have to be lowered down in our Man Overboard (MOB) Boat - because the currents at the harbour here are so dangerous.

Nearly at the water level.

Getting ready to start diving to clear the intakes.

The blue rope is attached to the ship and to the MOB boat and thus allows both divers and boat to remain alongside the vessel.

Looking forward from the port side.

Good Friday...

2011-04-23T14:25:00.003+02:00

But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,

and by his wounds we are healed.

(Isaiah 53: 5 NIV)

Water Taxi...

2011-04-22T16:13:00.005+02:00

Here in Sierra Leone, the airport at Lungi is located a fair distance from the main city of Freetown. They are separated by a large inlet of the Atlantic Ocean, which ultimately forms the beginning of the Rokel river. We have a water taxi company that assists in bringing our arrivals from the airport, and taking those departing to the airport too. Last week I took some departing crew to the floating dock where the water taxi pulls alongside, and was able to snap these photos there.

This is the floating dock.

Crew members await the water taxi's arrival.

Luggage going in the boat...

And once fully-loaded it speeds across the waters...

To take some dedicated crew members to the airport. Thank you for your service!

Board games AFM-style!

2011-04-22T16:02:00.004+02:00

One of the traditions amongst my friends is to play a competitive game of The Really Nasty Horse Racing Game, or Horses for short, from time to time. Playing board games with my friends is one of the aspects of community life that I also appreciate. Sometimes a good board game can really brighten up the day!

Intense horse-racing...

... And good friends make for fun times!

Open Mic Night...

2011-04-18T23:22:00.000+02:00

One of the things that I really LOVE about community life is the amazing diversity of our volunteer crew - in terms of nationality and gifting. This last Saturday evening we had an open mic night onboard the vessel. It was such a privilege to witness so many talented crew members blessing the crew with their God-given gifts.

Crew enjoy listening to the many talents on show.

Keith Chapman and friends entertain us.

What an awesome event for the crew!

Laundry day West African-style!

2011-04-17T23:32:00.000+02:00

West Africans have a unique way of drying their laundry... On any available space in the sun! This can include the tarmac of any available road or even the rocks of the Atlantic Ocean... Better watch out for high tide though!

Bureh Beach...

2011-04-17T17:44:00.000+02:00

After a busy week of work in the Purser's office, a group of my close friends headed out to Bureh Beach, only an hour's drive from the ship. We drove along a beautiful, scenic road, with many Sierra Leoneans out and about cleaning their streets and communities ahead of their 50th anniversary of independence celebrations on April 27th. We arrived at the beach and were blown away by the beauty of this quiet spot on the Atlantic Ocean. I'm sure you'll agree!

The crystal clear waters off Sierra Leone's coast.

A beautiful island several hundred metres off the coast.

Fishing canoes anchored off the coast.

A couple of my friends walking along the idyllic beach.

Sewing West African-style!

2011-04-17T17:36:00.000+02:00

In a country where electricity can be scarce, many people use old Singer-style sewing machines to make their often-colourful clothes. This is one of the vendors selling his wares at the small market at River No. 2.

(I apologise for the quality of this photo - it was taken just after my camera took a dip in the river last weekend...)

Hiking and relaxing in Sierra Leone...

2011-04-10T18:32:00.000+02:00

A group of us went exploring out to the area near River No. 2 beach yesterday. We had intended to go to an old hydro-electric plant (Guma Valley Water Company - Guma Dam and Treatment Works) and walk a hiking trail there, but unfortunately the military were doing an exercise, and so we headed to the beach instead.

We dropped the majority of our group at the beach and then drove inland along a rough path to a rocky river bed, where we hiked up for a couple of hours. It was so lovely to scramble over rocks and admire God's creation all around, far from the bustle of Freetown. What was not so lovely was when I slipped into a rock pool with my cell phone in one pocket and my camera in the other, but thankfully despite being thoroughly water-logged they both survived the submerging! We then spent another couple of hours relaxing on the beach before braving the three hours of traffic to get home again!

As these photos show, Sierra Leone is a beautiful country!

The rocky river bed we walked along.

It was so peaceful and calm in the forest.

The beach at River No. 2 is amazing.

Local fishing boats at anchor in the bay.

Another view of the beach.

Sign on the road near the dam.

It's good to be driving Land Rovers again!

The roads are pretty dusty out in the country...

... But the traffic on the outskirts of Freetown is horrendous!

In Freetown itself - nearly home!

Perspective Shift...

2011-04-08T00:39:00.000+02:00

It has been a frenetic week here on the Africa Mercy. Work has been busy and in the busyness it can be easy to lose focus. But that was until 1am this morning, when someone said something which got me thinking.

Let me give you the background. Mercy Ships had some wonderful folks arriving last night and we were concerned about how they would manage with the water taxi. And so we asked for a couple of volunteers to go across the river to the airport and assist them. This would mean having to give up your evening plans until at least 11pm, possibly later... And spend at least two or three hours hanging out next to a West African airport. Not the nicest experience, if you look at it from a human perspective.

The arrivals only came in a little before 1am, since the water taxi was slightly delayed, and I was there on the dock to assist them into the vehicles. We got back to the ship and I thanked the two individuals who had given up their evening and their plans to help out. But, what blew me away, was the response I got.

Thank YOU for giving us the opportunity to be of service.

I was blown away because it was totally not the response I was expecting. I know if it had been me I may have been a little grumpy and responded somewhat differently. This really showed me what selfless serving truly is about here on the Africa Mercy. It's a refreshing reminder of why we are here.

The Cotton Tree...

2011-04-03T18:31:00.000+02:00

Ben, Sam and I walked into town yesterday. We headed to the market to look at Sierra Leonean football (soccer) jerseys and then went on to the Cotton Tree, an important historic landmark of Freetown. The inscription on the plaque at the Cotton Tree reads as follows:

The 'Cotton Tree' became an inherent part of Sierra Leone's history in 1792 when a group of former American slaves, who had gained their freedom by fighting for the British during the American War of Independence, settled on the site of modern Freetown. They landed on the shoreline and walked up to a giant tree just above the bay, and offered prayers and thanksgiving for their deliverance from slavery.

Looking up at the massive tree.

The Justice buildings just near the Cotton Tree.

Mercy Ships has a strong connection with Sierra Leone. This is a painting on a wall near the port.

Painting of the Mercy Ship Anastasis near the port.

OM Ships M/V Logos Hope was also in Freetown last year.

The Africa Mercy alongside the dock in Freetown.

View of Freetown...

2011-04-03T18:01:00.000+02:00

This is the view we have of the hills above the city of Freetown, as seen from Deck 8 of the ship. Freetown is a beautiful city with lovely, friendly people. I've even discovered that there is a Murray Town here... Now that's a place I'll have to visit!

Here are some more photos of our view:

Looking down at our vehicles on the dock.

Freetown skyline.

Fishing village near the port.

Sunset over Sierra Leone.

Safe in Sierra Leone!

2011-03-29T21:39:00.000+02:00

After a lengthy (and rather tiring) journey from Cape Town, I arrived safely back on the Mercy Ship in Freetown, Sierra Leone, this past Sunday. It was interesting to land in Sierra Leone and then have to take the water taxi across the river to reach the ship in Freetown. It was a pretty fast, rough ride on the water taxi, but fun too!

The last two days I have spent reintegrating into ship life and today was my first full day back in the Assistant Purser role, and it went really well. Be sure to stay posted for more photos and stories from Sierra Leone this next few months!

The ship from the water taxi... Almost home!

Sierra Leone-bound...

2011-03-25T21:10:00.000+02:00

My time in Cape Town has been lovely. I have spent time reconnecting with old friends and my family here, and have done a lot of reading, praying, seeking, hiking, cycling, walking the dog, being open, honest and accountable, and all-round relaxing here. It has been fantastic.

I have discovered many weaknesses in my time with Mercy Ships in South Africa, and have begun the process of transforming them into potential for growth. I have been far more intentional about my regular "quiet" time with God and spending much more time in prayer, and this has been by far the biggest blessing. I have been provided with many resources and books and am feeling ready to return to the mission field, renewed and restored for the path ahead. Of course, having to say goodbye again to my wonderful family (including our dog Flicka) and my friends will hurt, but I know I am headed where God wants me to be. Please pray that I remember the lessons learned during this time in South Africa, and apply them for my time in Sierra Leone and beyond.

And so, tomorrow (Saturday, 26th March), I start my 26 hour journey back to the M/V Africa Mercy. I fly from Cape Town to Johannesburg on a domestic flight in the evening and then catch a Kenya Airways late-night flight from Jo'burg to Nairobi and onwards to Freetown. I'm excited to head back, but I am nervous about all the travelling. I don't enjoy travelling on my own, so please lift me up in prayer with regard to this. May I rest well on my flights!

As to my ministry, I will continue in the role of Assistant Purser but am going to be far more intentional about truly making my work an act of worship to God. I will be in this position until at least the end of the year, and will then re-evaluate where God is leading me for 2012. I'm open to His call whether He calls me to stay longer with Mercy Ships, leads me back to South Africa, or calls me elsewhere.

There is also an important event happening tomorrow for Mercy Ships Field Service in Sierra Leone. We are having our second large screening tomorrow. Please pray for all those involved and also lift up those who come seeking help. May God use us to reach those who need His healing touch in their lives. Pray for calm and peace for this important day, too.

Thank you for taking the time to follow my adventure here. God bless you. Next stop, Sierra Leone!

Pray for Tristan...

2011-03-24T12:39:00.000+02:00

In this world where there are so many other headline news stories vying for our time and attention, I want to tell you a story. This is a tale that happens far away from the world we know of - the world that revolves around money, war, poverty, and destruction. But that being said, it is a story that may have a disastrous ending.

In the South Atlantic Ocean, located approximately halfway between South Africa and South America, is the pristine natural wonder that is Tristan Da Cunha and her sister islands of Nightingale and Inaccessible. My family has been involved with these islands since before I can remember - hence my middle name of Tristan. In fact, the relationship dates back to 1937 when my grandfather, Allan Bryant Crawford, charted the first map of the island for the Admiralty. So accurate was his map that even in the world of satellites, his map is still in use by the British Admiralty today.

(Just some background: My grandfather, besides being an engineer and a meteorologist, was also a writer who wrote many books on these islands. He passed away before I joined Mercy Ships in 2007, but afterwards I discovered that the charity he supported throughout his lifetime was always Mercy Ships. His final book, his Memoirs, written in 2006, was even dedicated to his favourite charity. Hence, there is a special connection here. At left you will see the dedication he wrote for Mercy Ships.)

Tristan Da Cunha, a British Overseas Territory, is home to less than 300 islanders, who live off the island's resources. They harvest potatoes and other vegetables in the Potato Patches, a short drive from the settlement of Edinburgh (pictured at right). Their main livelihood is fishing and the export of Tristan Rock Lobster (also known as crawfish). The fishing industry is the lifeblood of the island. The Tristan archipelago is also home to many thousands of fur seals, penguins, albatrosses and various other wildlife endemic to this region of the globe. The island of Inaccessible is a declared World Heritage Site, such is the uniqueness of its ecosystem.

So isolated is this community that they are only reached by ship - usually a five-day voyage from Cape Town. There are no landing strips and the island is well beyond the endurance of helicopters. SA Agulhas, at left, makes a once-yearly trip to the island.

Now into this pristine, unspoiled environment picture a large bulk carrier, some 75,000 gross tonnes, crashing at full-speed into Nightingale Island. There are two other ships in the vicinity that come to the aid of the vessel and rescue her 22-man crew. A salvage tug is immediately sent from Cape Town to assist, but will take four days to reach the island chain. And then, just a few hours after the last crew are rescued, the unthinkable happens and the ship breaks apart in the relentless South Atlantic swells. Tristan is now facing an ecological disaster with crude oil plastering thousands of penguins and other sealife. The thousands of Northern Rockhopper Penguins, at right, are now threatened.

This is not a nightmare. This is the truth. The MS Oliva ran aground in the early hours of Wednesday, 16th March. The Smit Amandla salvage tug was dispatched from Cape Town to assist and reached the islands earlier this week. Unfortunately, when Smit Amandla left Cape Town the Oliva was still intact and thus the thought was of simply pulling her off the rocks. However, she broke apart and now authorities are busy chartering another ship to assist in the clean-up operation, and will bring with it an expert team from SANCCOB (the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) to help clean the birds. The ship pictured here is the small Cape Town-based fishing vessel M/V Edinburgh, one of two ships in the area that went to the aid of the MS Oliva.

So what I'm asking is for you to take a few moments in your day to pray for the people of Tristan. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers. With so much oil being discharged from the wreck, the effect on the long-term livelihood of the islanders could be problematic. So in the midst of reading about wars and earthquakes elsewhere, remember the islanders today.

All photos here courtesy of my parents and myself. For more, visit the Tristan Da Cunha website here.

Traditional island cottages on Tristan.

The Potato Patches.

In the vicinity where MS Oliva ran aground. Nightingale Island is on the right.

Northern Rockhopper Penguins are now at threat...

... As are the Fur Seals.

Smit Amandla is currently down at Tristan to assess the situation.

South Africa's Environmental Affairs marine patrol ship Sarah Baartman may be used to assist in the clean-up operation.

SA Agulhas may also be an option as she carries two helicopters.

Silvermine Hike...

2011-03-19T14:48:00.000+02:00

I went for a hike with my parents in Silvermine, an area of Table Mountain National Park, yesterday. It was lovely to walk in God's creation and enjoy the beauty of the indigenous vegetation and the spectacular views over various parts of the city. Here are some photos from this day. The photo at right is taken from the lookout point above Noordhoek.

We started from the dam at Silvermine.

Walking up the rough track above the dam.

An aggressive spider protects its web and nest in the Fynbos vegetation.

An erica, a plant in the Fynbos family.

The Silvermine radio mast visible here - this is from where much of Cape Town's radio and TV is transmitted.

Another plant in the Fynbos family.

A wild daisy.

Our dog Flicka sometimes thinks she's a mountain goat!

The King Protea - South Africa's national flower.

Looking towards Noordhoek and Long Beach.

A plant in the Protea family.

Looking down towards Hout Bay - Chapman's Peak Drive, on the route of the Cycle Tour, is visible here.

More indigenous plants.

I wish I was better at naming plants... This, I believe, is also a plant in the Fynbos family.

Heading back down to Silvermine Dam after a lovely hike.