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MARINERS DEPEND ON SCI.
SCI DEPENDS ON YOU.
| | SCI Chaplain, the Rev. Geoffrey Davis (left), visits with Bisso Towing Co.'s Captain Kyle Butler (center) and Chief Engineer Christoper Carlisle (right) in the Port of New Orleans. | | |
IN THIS ISSUE – October 2025
- 2025 SCI Mountain Challenge Recap
- 2025 ICMA World Conference: SCI Joins Global Seafarer Welfare Organizations in Barcelona
- 25th Annual River Bell Luncheon—Save the Date
- SCI Welcomes ASEAN Delegation to Explore Mariner Advocacy
- The Rev. Grace Pardun Welcomes Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky to SCI-Paducah
- No Mariner Stands Alone: SCI’s Message of Hope During Suicide Awareness Month
- SCI and KOTUG Renew Strategic Partnership on Maritime Training
- SCI Engages with Global Leaders in Maritime Simulation at Kongsberg Conference
- CME E-Learning Introduces Cybersecurity Awareness Training for Maritime Professionals
- Matt Morse Represents SCI at Gemini Shippers Association Annual Meeting
- Building Connections: SCI at NJIT’s Non-Profit Expo 2025
- SCI Welcomes Yonni Tompkins
- SCI Launches “Adopt a Crew” — A New Way to Support Seafarers
- From SCI Archives—Books for Every Voyage: A Gift of 25,000 Stories
| | THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS | | SCI MOUNTAIN CHALLENGE — 2025 | | |
The 2025 SCI Mountain Challenge welcomed both ideal weather and remarkable energy to Sunday River Resort in Newry, Maine, from September 25–28.
Thirty-nine teams—118 competitors from across the maritime industry— took on New England’s rugged terrain, paddling, climbing, hiking, and navigating obstacle courses in a true test of endurance and teamwork.
Through the demanding 20-mile course, nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, and the “Philanthropy Challenge,” this year’s Mountain Challenge raised $539,000 in support of SCI’s work.
| | SCI extends its sincere gratitude to all participants and warmly recognizes the generous support of its sponsors: Peak Sponsors McAllister Towing and UBS, and Fueling Station Sponsors BSM and Pangaea. Special thanks go to Lead Event Sponsor Cargill, along with Mountain Challenge co-chairs Rich du Moulin and Jan-Willem van den Dijssel, whose steadfast commitment to the event’s success. | | 2025 ICMA World Conferences: SCI Joins Global Seafarer Welfare Organizations in Barcelona | | Approximately 250 delegates gathered for the 2025 ICMA World Conference. | | |
Surrounded by dignitaries from the city, the port, and the maritime community, the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) opened its 2025 World Conference in Barcelona under the theme “Navigating Change.” The gathering, hosted locally by Stella Maris Barcelona, has brought together more than 250 participants from over 40 countries—each united by their commitment to serving seafarers and their families.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of one of the world’s leading port cities, the conference offers a valuable opportunity to renew relationships, share best practices, and strengthen collaboration among maritime ministry partners worldwide. Over the course of several days, participants will engage in plenary sessions, panel discussions, and workshops designed to inspire and equip them for the evolving challenges of maritime welfare and advocacy.
“This conference provides an opportunity to gather and discuss the many shifts within the maritime world that impact seafarers—from changes in who seafarers are, to the far-reaching effects of the pandemic, and looking ahead, to the influence of tariffs on trade and globalization," said the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, SCI's President & Executive Director and Chair of ICMA.
SCI’s leadership and expertise were further highlighted through active participation in key sessions. Phil Schifflin, Esq., Director of SCI’s Center for Mariner Advocacy, contributed to the second-day session on “MLC, 2006 and Improving the Welfare of Seafarers.” He also served as a panelist for “Crew Mental Health, Suicide Prevention, and Wellness,” a session moderated by SCI Chaplain, the Rev. Dr. Bill Allport.
In addition, Nestlehutt moderated an engaging session on “Fishers’ Welfare,” emphasizing SCI’s ongoing dedication to the well-being of all who work at sea.
Through these contributions, SCI continues to play a leading role in shaping global dialogue and advancing compassionate care for mariners worldwide.
| | From left to right: SCI Chaplains Michelle McWilliams, the Rev. James Kollin, and the Rev. Dr. Bill Allport; Center for Mariner Advocacy Director Phill Schifflin, Esq.; President & Executive Director the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, International Seafarers’ Center Director Matt Morse, Esq.; and Communications Director Evan Brown. | | SCI Welcomes ASEAN Delegation to Explore Mariner Advocacy | | SCI's Director of the Center for Mariner Advocacy, Phil Schifflin Esq. (fifth from right), with representatives of ASEAN. | | |
As Director of the Center for Mariner Advocacy, Phil Schifflin Esq. continually seeks opportunities to share SCI’s mission and connect with new partners who are interested in advancing mariner wellbeing.
On September 30, Phil hosted nine representatives from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), who were in the United States as part of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program. He began with an overview of SCI’s history and introduced the organization’s three mission areas: Seafarer & Mariner Services, Training, and Mariner Advocacy. He then provided a deeper look into his own area of focus—how SCI works globally to improve mariner wellbeing through engagement with the International Maritime Organization and the International Labour Organization, as well as through direct support of individual mariners with free legal advice and advocacy.
The ASEAN delegation was highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions throughout the discussion. They expressed a strong interest in ways they could contribute to improving mariner wellbeing, particularly in supporting mariners from their home countries.
| | The Rev. Grace Pardun Welcomes Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky to SCI-Paducah | Members from the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky, including Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Terry Allen White (far right) on a visit to the Ingram Barge Company. | |
On October 16, 2025, the SCI office in Paducah hosted a special visit from the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky, including Bishop the Rt. Rev. Terry Allen White, which was coordinated and facilitated by the Rev. Grace Pardun, Supervisory Chaplain for SCI’s Ministry on the River.
The day began in the lecture hall, where Pardun introduced participants to the Seamen’s Church Institute’s mission and shared ways their parishes can partner with SCI’s ministry to support mariners and their families.
Afterward, the group moved to the ship simulators for a hands-on lesson in navigating the waterways—steering virtual vessels through the bridges of Pittsburgh. Some guests handled the challenge like seasoned pilots, while others discovered just how tricky it can be to keep a tow in line! William "Buck" Viniard, Building Facilities Coordinator and Simulator Operator, added excitement by programming unpredictable weather, helicopters, and even other vessels on the water.
Following lunch, the group toured Ingram Barge Company, where they met shoreside staff and learned about the logistics of managing large fleets. The visit concluded with an onboard tour of the M/V Mark Duley, where guests explored the engine room and learned about Tier 4 engines, chatted with the cook and mate about daily life aboard, and met the captain in the pilothouse to hear how he leads his crew and navigates challenges on the river.
The visit offered the Rt. Rev. Terry Allen White and the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky an immersive look into the maritime world and the vital work SCI does to support those who live and work on the water.
| Members of the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky visit ship simulators at CME-Paducah. |
No Mariner Stands Alone: SCI’s Message of Hope During Suicide Awareness Month | | |
During Suicide Awareness Month in September, the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) reaffirmed its commitment to the mental health and well-being of mariners by sharing a message of compassion, resilience, and hope.
Two powerful videos were released—one featuring the Rev. Grace Pardun, SCI’s Supervisory Chaplain for the Ministry on the River, and another from SCI Chaplain, the Rev. Geoffrey Davis. Both clergy members acknowledged the profound emotional and psychological challenges faced by those working in the maritime industry, where isolation, long stretches away from home, and high-stress environments are part of daily life. Their messages served not only as words of comfort to mariners but also as a call to action for others to support those navigating such struggles.
SCI also published an article titled "No Mariner Stands Alone," further emphasizing that community and connection are vital lifelines for seafarers. As part of these initiatives, Pardun collaborated with SCI Communications Associate, Bridgit Patterson, to create a compassionate and practical handout for chaplains to leave with mariners following a critical incident—providing immediate resources and a tangible reminder that support is available.
Together, these efforts reflect SCI’s unwavering mission to stand beside mariners in every aspect of their lives, especially in times of mental and emotional hardship.
| | SCI and KOTUG Renew Strategic Partnership on Maritime Training | | Back row (left to right): Capt. Stephen Polk, SCI Center for Maritime Education Director; Capt. Waldo de Waal, KOTUG Senior Trainer; Patrick Everts, KOTUG Optiport Director/Training & Consultancy Director. Front row (left to right): The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, SCI President & Executive Director; Ard-Jan Kooren, KOTUG President & CEO. | | |
The Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) and Rotterdam-based KOTUG Training & Consultancy (KTC) have renewed their strategic partnership to broaden access to world-class maritime training opportunities for U.S. mariners.
Through its Center for Maritime Education—with locations in Paducah, Kentucky, and Houston, Texas—SCI is a national leader in simulation-based maritime training. Under the renewed agreement, SCI will incorporate KOTUG’s globally recognized trainers and consultants to enhance its harbor tug training programs further and integrated tug master–ship pilot courses.
KOTUG, a global leader in harbor, river, and terminal towage training, will, in turn, benefit from access to SCI’s advanced vessel and tug simulators. Together, the two organizations will deliver complementary training solutions for ports, terminals, and the inland tug and barge sector, ensuring that mariners receive cutting-edge instruction and assessment tools.
“Renewing our partnership with KOTUG underscores our shared commitment to maritime safety and professional excellence,” said the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, President and Executive Director of The Seamen’s Church Institute. “By combining SCI’s premier facilities with KOTUG’s international expertise, we can deliver the highest standard of training for American mariners.”
“We are proud to continue our collaboration with SCI,” said Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO of KOTUG. “This partnership blends international best practices with SCI’s deep understanding of the U.S. market, creating unmatched opportunities for maritime professionals.”
This renewed partnership strengthens both organizations’ ability to meet the evolving needs of the maritime industry and reaffirms their joint mission to advance safety, performance, and professionalism on the water.
| | SCI Engages with Global Leaders in Maritime Simulation at Kongsberg Conference | | |
SCI’s President and Executive Director, the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, together with members of our CME team, participated in this year’s Kongsberg Global Simulation User Conference in Terschelling, Netherlands, from September 16-18, 2025. The event highlights how advanced simulation solutions can enhance maritime education and training, build competence, support decision-making, and promote more sustainable operations. Over the course of the event, the conference offered a full program of knowledge sharing, innovation, and collaboration with the international simulation community. It was an inspiring opportunity to see how technology is driving the future of maritime training and operations.
As part of their visit, they also had the opportunity to step aboard a RotorTug—an innovative vessel designed and patented by KOTUG.
| | Far right: SCI President & Executive Director, the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, aboard a KOTUG-designed e-pusher in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. | |
CME E-Learning Introduces Cybersecurity Awareness Training for Maritime Professionals | |
In July, CME e-learning released Cybersecurity Awareness, an e-learning module developed to strengthen the maritime industry’s resilience against growing digital threats. This module was created in response to the U.S. Coast Guard’s 2025 Cybersecurity Rule, which requires maritime organizations to integrate cybersecurity into their safety and security culture. Because digital systems are critical to operations, protecting our networks and information is as essential as safeguarding our vessels and crews.
This engaging and interactive module is designed for all personnel working in the maritime industry, from shoreside employees to onboard crew members. Participants will learn how to recognize, report, and respond to cybersecurity threats—empowering them to protect both their organizations and the broader marine transportation system.
The course covers critical topics, including information and operational technology, techniques used to circumvent cybersecurity measures, and best practices for maintaining cybersecurity on personal devices and company networks. Learners will also gain a clear understanding of their responsibilities under the 2025 Cybersecurity Rule, ensuring compliance and preparedness across all operations.
By completing this course, mariners will be better equipped to identify cyber risks, prevent incidents, and help build a safer, more secure industry for everyone.
| | Matt Morse Represents SCI at Gemini Shippers Association Annual Meeting | Gemini Shippers Association President and CEO, Ken O'Brien (left), presents Director of SCI's International Seafarers' Center (ISC), Matt Morse (right), with a generous donation in recognition of ISC's efforts. | |
Matt Morse, Director of SCI’s International Seafarers’ Center, recently represented the Seamen’s Church Institute at the 2025 annual meeting of the Gemini Shippers Association. He attended at the invitation of Gemini President and CEO Ken O’Brien (also President and CEO of Bluspark Global) and Daria Kilkeary, Director of Enterprise Sales and Consulting at Bluspark Global.
During the event, O’Brien warmly commended SCI’s work before the assembled audience and invited Morse to join him onstage. On behalf of the Association, O’Brien presented a generous donation in support of the International Seafarers’ Center and its ongoing mission to serve mariners in the Port.
In his remarks to the Association, Morse spoke about the vital importance of centering humanity within the machinery of the Port and highlighted SCI’s centuries-long commitment to caring for seafarers. He reflected on how the Port Newark and Port Elizabeth communities are often underseen and undervalued, emphasizing the need to recognize and support one another within these essential maritime communities.
Expressing his gratitude, Morse said: “SCI is deeply grateful to Ken O’Brien, Daria Kilkeary, and the members of the Gemini Shippers Association—not simply for their financial contribution, which is admirable in and of itself, but also for their clear effort to recognize the human lives that make possible the livelihoods of the Association’s members. Our Port community continues to show us that they value SCI’s work, and I am thankful to the Gemini Shippers Association for their support.”
| Building Connections: SCI at NJIT’s Non-Profit Expo 2025 | | |
Matt Morse, Director of SCI’s International Seafarers’ Center, represented SCI at the New Jersey Institute of Technology’s (NJIT) 2025 Non-Profit Expo on September 24. He connected with students and educators to share SCI’s mission and recruit volunteers.
Morse reflected: "Earlier this year, SCI participated in NJIT’s ‘Alternative Spring Break’ program, which opened the door to this Expo. It’s a deeper opportunity to engage with a promising pool of young volunteers eager to serve others. In just two focused hours, we sparked volunteer interest from more than 40 NJIT students and educators and built connections with other local nonprofits. An excellent result.”
SCI is deeply grateful to NJIT for the invitation, and to the students and educators who expressed interest in advancing SCI’s mission.
| | SCI Welcomes Yonni Tompkins | | |
The Seamen's Church Institute is pleased to welcome Yonni Tompkins. She will be joining the team at SCI's Center for Maritime Education in Houston, TX, as the newest Learning Management Systems (LMS) Administrator.
Tompkins has a background in insurance and education and studied at the University of Akron. Outside of work, her interests include fitness, coaching, and technology.
SCI is thrilled to welcome Yonni to the team!
| | SCI Launches “Adopt a Crew” — A New Way to Support Seafarers | | |
SCI is thrilled to announce the launch of our newest volunteer initiative: "Adopt a Crew." Through this program, volunteer groups assemble individual care packages that SCI Chaplains personally deliver to seafarers aboard vessels calling at the Port of New York and New Jersey.
For seafarers, these care packages are far more than simple items—they are lifelines. With limited shore leave and long stretches of isolation at sea, a thoughtfully prepared package serves as a powerful reminder that someone on land sees, values, and appreciates their hard work. It’s a small act that delivers a big boost to morale and well-being.
We’re proud to share that Maher Terminals in Elizabeth, NJ, was the first team to join Adopt a Crew! Thanks to their commitment, SCI Chaplain the Rev. Dr. Bill Allport recently delivered care packages to the tugboat crews of the Iona McAllister, Doris Moran, and Anna Rose. A heartfelt thank-you to the Maher Terminals team for helping us launch this effort.
In celebration of World Maritime Day on September 25, Ocean Network Express (ONE) took the program nationwide—organizing seven Adopt a Crew packing events across the U.S. Special thanks to Amy Willis of ONE’s Richmond, VA office for leading this multi-location effort. Amy shared that employees had a “blast” creating the care bags, saying, "I am delighted that we were able to offer this off-site activity to our employees, especially those who live a distance away."
Adopt a Crew is a flexible, rewarding project that any group—large or small—can take on from anywhere, at any time. It’s an easy and impactful way to show appreciation and support for the men and women who keep global trade moving.
Join us in making a difference. "Adopt a Crew" today—and deliver hope to those at sea.
For more information or to get involved, contact:
Joanne Bartosik, Senior Manager of Development and Christmas at Sea
📧 jbartosik@seamenschurch.org | 📞 973-589-5828
| | Members of the Maher Terminal team prepare care packages for seafarers at SCI's International Seafarers' Center in Port Newark. | | Books for Every Voyage: A Gift of 25,000 Stories | | |
📚 75 Years Ago in The Lookout - Robert K. Strauss, publisher of Omnibook Magazine, donated 25,000 of his abridged editions of popular books to entertain seafarers during their off-duty hours at sea.
Here he is pictured in SCI’s Joseph Conrad Library with SCI Director Dr. Raymond S. Hall, Chief Electrician David McMullen, and A.B. Seaman R.L. O’Harrow.
A gift of stories, keeping mariners connected to the wider world, is a practice that continues today with a selection of books available to seafarers who visit SCI's International Seafarers' Center.
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