Christian Press, Your Christian News Authority

ST VINCENT (ANS) -- Following a highly successful tour of UK ports earlier this year, Logos Hope is currently making waves in the Caribbean. The vessel's arrival in the region has been long anticipated after the retirement of Logos II, and residents of St. Vincent, were the first to welcome the ship across the Atlantic. Between July 28th and August 11th, over 40,000 islanders stepped on board, a figure that equates to more than one in three of St. Vincent's population. Besides welcoming people to the ship's educational book fair, crewmembers also left the ship to serve communities inland. Orphans and special-needs children responded excitedly when Logos Hope teams performed fun and musical programmes at their centres. In very different surroundings, all 400 inmates at the island's only prison were brought together so they could hear visiting crewmembers' testimonies of God's forgiveness. The number of islanders who gave their lives to Christ during the stay in St. Vincent exceeded a hundred, and those new believers are now in touch with churches.

Local Christians were also motivated by the crew's example of brothers and sisters in Christ serving together in unity. They invited Logos Hope members to share in their Sunday church services and many of the congregations were challenged toward a closer walk with God. In addition, the island's pastors were invited to a special conference on board the ship that emphasised interdenominational co-operation and prayer. By the end of the event, the church leaders were keenly discussing how their fellowships could actively participate in mission work.

The ship's schedule includes stops in Grenada, Trinidad and Barbados, where crew will continue to serve needy communities. However, after the long Atlantic crossing the vessel's fuel tanks are in urgent need of filling and an appeal for funds is being made. Donations can be given securely online at www.uk.om.org/fuel or by calling 01691 776711. Further details about Logos Hope's ministry can also be found at www.omships.org.