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At the Water’s Edge: Advancing Maritime Chaplaincy Through Research and Training

The Rev. Dr. David Fleenor, PhD. presents on maritime chaplaincy and his study, “At the Water’s Edge,” to attendees at the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) Annual Conference in Philadelphia, PA.

At the 2026 North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) Annual Conference, the Rev. Dr. David Fleenor, PhD. presented “Essential Competencies for Maritime Chaplaincy: Lessons Learned from Study Prepared for the Seamen’s Church Institute.”

Supported by a grant from The Episcopal Church’s United Thank Offering, Dr. Fleenor’s research explores the core competencies and practices that help maritime chaplains serve mariners and seafarers more effectively. The findings helped shape At the Water’s Edge, SCI’s new structured training resource designed to strengthen pastoral proficiency, support professional practice, and prepare chaplains for the complex realities of maritime ministry.

Watch Dr. Fleenor’s NAMMA presentation and learn more about the research behind this important resource.

At the Water’s Edge is also available for free through SCI’s website.