WORK AMONG SEAMEN

White Ribbon, Volume 19, Issue 5, 1 June 1947, Page 2

WORK AMONG SEAMEN

Talk given by Mrs. Gardiner, Dominion Superintendent, at Convention I would like to thank Unions throughout the Dominion for their support during the year; for the parcels that have U .i forwarded to the Sailor-' Rests and also for all donations that I iv* l>een sent to further this work. It is a great privilege we have a- an organisation to be able to -ay we have these two Seamen-’ Rests. What a Ikhjii these places are for the men who come into, i>o»i. Everything is there to make them comfortable, game-, reading matter, pleasant rooms for them to rest in, and they are always sure of a heartv welcome. Then, when they arc

leaving the l>ort, they are sure of a present in the shape of a "ditty-bag, with face and shavuig so:q> ana i>erhapa pair of socks and a liandkerchiet along with some tein;»erance literature to read when they get aboard, probably to he picked up when they have a spell, to look at. We should be very proud of these possessions, and do all we can to contribute lo their up-keep. It must i rove a great blessing to these men w’leti they come into these "Rests to feel that someone is taking an interest in them, and that there is somewhere for them to go besides dance Mis, especially tbjse men who do not frequent these places. The “Rests” provide fellowship, spiritual opportunity, and recreation. In looking over the rejHirts I wa - very much impressed with the work that had gone on steadily during the whole year, and not just at the time when reports were due. I would like, at this stage, to pay a tribute to the committees of the “Rests tor the fine work they are doing, and to say to them “Thank you,” not because tliev look for thanks, for know it is a reai labour of love tor the Master; and 1 would ask you all to continue your good work for tin men who go to sea, and use these planof rest that are kept going only by vuiir prayers and help.