The Rev. James Kollin — Chaplain, International Seafarers’ Center, Port of New York & New Jersey

From the June Quarterly Activity Report

I had the privilege of assisting a New York-based family in reuniting, albeit briefly, with their cousin, a seafarer whose ship was calling at Port Newark. The family shared that despite several trips back to their ancestral country over the years, they had always missed seeing their cousin, as he was at sea during their visits. Upon learning that his vessel was docked locally, they were eager to finally connect with him in person.

The family brought thoughtful items for their loved one: homemade food, gifts, vitamins, a new pair of shoes, and other personal supplies he had requested. They arrived at the International Seafarers’ Center and transferred to our SCI vehicle, with me as their designated escort. Their visit had been pre-arranged with the ship’s captain and agent in compliance with standard ship access protocols.

However, upon arrival at the dock, we were informed by the duty clerk that the necessary port authority approval for their visit had not yet been granted. The guard stated, “We’ll contact you if your access is approved, but for now, you are not authorized.”

Disappointing, but understanding the family’s time constraints and inability to wait for clearance, I offered to personally deliver the items on board while they remained at the gate. They agreed, as it was the only available option.

To offer some comfort and connection, I proposed that the seafarer walk to the ship’s bow so he and his relatives could see one another and at least wave from a distance. The family and their cousin exchanged smiles, tears, and words through their phones; they were visibly moved despite being separated by nearly 100 feet. Even the security guard, observing the interaction, was emotionally touched.

Due to the family’s work obligations, they shared that this might be their only chance to visit. However, they expressed deep gratitude for SCI’s presence and for facilitating this interaction. “At last, and at least, we saw him with our own eyes. We know he felt the same,” they said.

We all parted with a deep sense of fulfillment. I am reminded again of SCI’s meaningful role in connecting seafarers with those who love them.