by Chaplain Nancy Simpson— Ministry on the River, Houston Ship Channel & Gulf Coast Region

From the Quarterly Activity Report, December 2024.

This year, I began learning French with the intention of connecting more deeply with the French side of my ancestry. Little did I know that this language immersion would also enhance my work as an SCI Chaplain serving the Gulf Coast Region.

At the Gulf Intracoastal Canal Association conference in Louisiana, while assisting at the registration table with other SCI staff, I heard someone greet me with, “Bonjour! Comment ça va?” (French for “good morning, how’s it going?”). It was my moment to respond with “Bonjour” and reassure them with a simple “Bien.”

Many mariners I meet on tugboats hail from Louisiana, where French, often with a Cajun twist, is part of everyday life. As I step aboard, I feel privileged to share moments with them, learning about their lives and challenges. Speaking even a few words in their home language fosters connection and mutual respect, making these interactions more consequential.

Recently, I gave tours to visitors curious about SCI and the maritime industry. One group included a European company executive and his colleague. I welcomed them in English and French, receiving warm, multilingual greetings in return. (The other group, from a Texas church involved with Christmas at Sea, left inspired and deeply connected to SCI’s mission and the mariners we serve.)

Another time, in a more somber moment, I was called to Louisiana to assist a company with the tragic, unexpected death of one of their employees. I was there as the SCI Chaplain, along with a therapist, to provide therapeutic and spiritual support for those in shock and grief. Stories, emotions, and resources were shared, questions were answered, and conversations began. We ate lunch together and had more caring conversations.

I doubt if many there will remember what I said to them as a group, but I was able to be present for them in their grief. Whether through words in English, French, or simply being quietly present, my hope is that the compassion I bring makes a difference in the lives of mariners.