FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DiscipleShip 2025 – Thanksgiving Tour Aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam
International Seafarer Ministry of Miami and Strategic Partners Minister to Cruise Ship Crew Members; Honors Holland America Line’s Commitment to Crew Well-Being
Miami, FL – November 22, 2025 — The International Seafarer Ministry of Miami, a 501-c3 non-for-profit organization, and a Christ-centered ministry committed to serving the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of seafarers, completed its DiscipleShip 2025 – Thanksgiving Tour aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam. Crew members were encouraged through prayer, counseling, fellowship, and the distribution of care packs containing toiletries and essential items for daily use.
Led by Dr. Julio C. Salas, Pastor of the ministry, the ministry’s chaplain team—Chaplain Johnny Oliver, Chaplain Julio A. Salas, and Chaplain David A. Salas—expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the multinational crew of the Zuiderdam. The team provided ministry of presence, compassionate listening, and spiritual support, offering Christ-centered encouragement to those who work far from home.
Two of the ministry’s valued partners joined the outreach:
The Miami Baptist Association, represented by Pastor Rick Martinez and Pastor Natanael Vicens (representing the Hispanic churches)
The Chinese Baptist Church of Miami, represented by Sister Mae and Brother Zhongsheng, from the church’s Missions Committee
Their presence and sustained support strengthened the spirit of unity and mission collaboration that defines this ministry.
Highlighting Holland America’s Commitment
The International Seafarer Ministry of Miami extends heartfelt thanks to Holland America for its dedication to the spiritual and emotional well-being of its crew. The cruise line expressed a clear desire for crew members to know what services and support are available to them on every turn day in Miami, and the ministry is honored to partner in this effort.
The ministry commends Holland America for establishing a caring environment where crew morale, performance, and overall hospitality are strengthened through genuine concern for their well-being.
It is the prayer and hope of the International Seafarer Ministry of Miami that the love, care, and encouragement offered to crew members will be multiplied—shaping crew who not only feel valued and strengthened, but who also extend that same kindness, compassion, and brotherly love to their shipmates and to the passengers they serve each day.
Gratitude to PortMiami Authorities
The International Seafarer Ministry of Miami also expresses sincere appreciation to PortMiami officials for their professionalism and support. Their efficient coordination and dedication ensured a smooth and seamless boarding process, allowing the ministry to carry out its work effectively and safely.
Prayers and Blessings Offered Onboard
During the visit, the ministry offered prayers of blessing for the ship’s captain, officers, and crew—asking God to grant safety, unity, and peace on every voyage. A prayer of blessing was also extended over Holland America, recognizing the company’s ongoing commitment to fostering a supportive and caring environment for its workforce.
Shared Mission and Continued Partnership
The DiscipleShip 2025 initiative reflects the ministry’s long-term mission to serve seafarers from every nation with the love of Christ. The ministry looks forward to strengthening partnerships with cruise and cargo companies, local churches, and international ministry partners.
About the International Seafarer Ministry of Miami
The International Seafarer Ministry of Miami, a 501-c3 non-for-profit organization, is a ministry of the church, for the church—a Christ-centered outreach dedicated to serving the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of seafarers who work aboard cruise ships and cargo vessels in PortMiami.
We are:
A Seaport Ministry of the Florida Baptist Convention
A Trusted Ministry Partner of the Miami Baptist Association
Our mission is to bring the hope of Christ, compassionate presence, pastoral care, and practical assistance to the thousands of crew members who enter PortMiami every week.
Location: 1180 South America Way, Miami, FL 33132
Website: www.ismportmiami.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISMmiami
We welcome partnerships with churches in Miami, across Florida, and around the world who desire to participate in or support this vital ministry to the nations God brings to our port.
Lovingly in Christ,
Dr. Julio C. Salas, DEdMin, MDiv, MSIS
Executive Director | Missions Pastor | Port Chaplain
International Seafarer Ministry of Miami
1180 S. America Way
Miami, FL 33132-2025
Phone: (305) 390-7424
International Seafarers Ministry of Miami is a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
“They who go down to the sea in ships… they see the works of the Lord, and His wonders in the deep.” – Psalm 107:23–24
Is the Lord moving you to give? Partner with us in sharing Christ’s love with seafarers: www.ismportmiami.org/give
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