John & Jean Van Hemert

Pastor John and Jean have a mission field in the US on the ports of Florida and Washington. They minister to the workers on cargo ships, oil tankers, and cruise ships. 

The crews are often from poorer Asian or Latin countries seeking a source of income. They are away from their homes, family, and communities for a year or more at a time. Missions to seafarers tries to offer them the love and friendship of a Christian community whenever they dock in the US. They are often very open to hearing the Gospel of Christ, some for the first time.  

The 20-year-old ministry includes many opportunities to board ships, hold worship services on the docks or ships, handout useful Christmas packages, celebrate Easter, counsel individual crew members, and share the hope of the Gospel constantly through word and deed.  

Pastor John’s work is currently focused on the docks of Palm Beach, Florida.  He and his team host a community center and chapel for the crew members whenever they leave the ships. During COVID, the seamen were not allowed to come ashore, but Pastor John was welcomed on board to offer spiritual guidance as an Essential Worker for the welfare of the crew.

Your support of their work allows them to impact people from all over the world with the Gospel of Christ. Thank you.