On June 13, 2024, the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) welcomed maritime leaders and supporters for its 46th Annual Silver Bell Awards Dinner in New York. This year, the event honored John C. Hadjipateras, Chairman, CEO, and President of Dorian LPG Ltd., with the Silver Bell Award, and Bethann Rooney, Director, Port Department at The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, with the Distinguished Service Award.

 
The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, SCI President and Executive Director, stated, “The Silver Bell Awards Dinner celebrates the maritime industry, and it is a time to remember those who have difficult and demanding roles in moving the world’s goods over water and between nations. Tonight, we are delighted to honor John and Bethann, who truly embody the spirit of our mission, and champion the needs and concerns of seafarers.”

 
The evening began with a parade of vessels on the Hudson River, blessed by the Rt. Rev. Andrew Dietsche, recently retired Episcopal Bishop of New York, assisted by Suffragan Bishop Alan Shin, joined by the Rev. Kristin Miles from Trinity Church Wall Street, and the Rev. James Kollin and the Rev. Dr. Bill Allport, SCI Maritime Chaplains. The Port Authority Police Department Pipes & Drums led the guests inside, where the United States Coast Guard Sector New York Color Guard opened the dinner, and the National Anthem was sung by members of the Trinity Church Choir, who also closed the evening with the hymn Eternal Father, Strong to Save.

 
The 2024 Silver Bell Awards Dinner welcomed 530 guests and raised $764,000 to fund SCI’s crucial support of international seafarers and domestic mariners. The Rev. Mr. Nestlehutt expressed his gratitude, stating, “The Silver Bell is always a special event for us, and we are thankful this evening for the guests, supporters, and sponsors who share our commitment, believe in our work, and gave generously to support our mission.”

John C. Hadjipateras, Chairman, CEO, and President of Dorian LPG Ltd, received the 2024 Silver Bell Award. He is joined on stage by Silver Bell event co-chair Jack Noonan (left—Binnacle Maritime, LLC), the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt (center—SCI President and Executive Director), and Silver Bell co-chair Buckley McAllister (right—Chairman and CEO, McAllister Towing).

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Bethann Rooney, Director, Port Department at The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, received the 2024 Distinguished Service Award. She is joined by the Rev. Mark Nestlehutt (left—SCI President and Executive Director).