Loving and Caring for Seafarers at the World’s Busiest Cruise Port
Dear Friend of the International Seafarer Ministry of Miami,
As 2025 comes to a close, I want to personally thank you for your support of the International Seafarer Ministry of Miami. This year has been one of growth, renewed vision, and deep ministry impact—much of it possible because of faithful partners like you.
Stepping into my role as Executive Director has been an honor, and I am grateful for the tireless commitment of our Board of Directors, who have worked faithfully alongside me to strengthen the ministry and expand our reach. Serving in PortMiami—the largest cruise port in the world— gives us a unique responsibility and privilege to care for thousands of crew members who enter our port every week.
• 2025 Gala & Seafarer National Day of Prayer
This year, for the first time, we combined our Gala with the Seafarer National Day of Prayer into one powerful afternoon of generosity, testimony, and celebration. We gathered with churches, maritime leaders, cruise and cargo representatives, and port officials to pray over the men and women who spend their lives at sea. It was a beautiful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the strength of our partnerships.
• Ship Visits and Pastoral Care
Throughout the year, our ministry continued to board cruise ships and cargo vessels—praying with seafarers, opening Scripture, encouraging believers, and offering pastoral counseling. Every ship visit reminds me how hungry crew members are for connection, hope, and the presence of someone who will listen and care.
• Ministry of Presence in Times of Crisis and Tragedy
This year brought heartbreaking moments. When tragedy struck aboard a vessel at sea, we ministered to the crew as they came to our hospitality center, offering prayer and comfort in a time of deep grief and shock.
Our ministry also walked closely with a dear crew member who tragically lost her husband back in her country while she was working at sea. Being able to support her emotionally and spiritually during such a devastating time reaffirmed why this ministry must remain present and compassionate.
• Care Packs for Seafarers
We distributed hundreds of care packs filled with essentials, spiritual reading materials, and encouragement. These simple gifts make a profound difference—reminding crew members they are seen, valued, and not forgotten.
• Partnerships Across Miami and the Maritime Community
I am deeply thankful for the churches of Miami, PortMiami leadership, and the cruise and cargo companies who welcome and support our work. These partnerships strengthen our mission and allow us to serve thousands of seafarers each year.
As we look forward to 2026, the needs at PortMiami continue to grow. Seafarers face long contracts, loneliness, spiritual hunger, and deep emotional burdens. And yet, the opportunities to shine the light of Christ in their lives are greater than ever.
Would you prayerfully consider making a special end-of-year gift to support this vital ministry?
Your generosity enables us to continue providing:
Ship visits, discipleship, Bibles and Bible studies
Emotional and spiritual support during crises
Care packs and practical assistance
Prayer gatherings and outreach events
A faithful ministry of presence at the world’s busiest cruise port
Would you prayerfully consider giving today, please visit:
www.ismportmiami.org/give
Or, mail a check payable to: International Seafarer Ministry of Miami
Our Address:
1180 S. America Way
Miami, FL 33132-2025
Whether you are a donor, sponsor, church partner, or friend of the mission, your gift brings hope to those who spend their lives at sea. Thank you for standing with me, for caring for seafarers, and for helping us continue this gospel mission.
With much love and gratitude,
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
www.ismportmiami.org
Phone: (305) 390-7424
The 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