In a recent editorial published in The Waterways Journal, SCI emphasizes that pastoral care is all-encompassing—not limited to emergencies, tragedies, or moments of crisis. Chaplains are here to support the whole person and to offer a compassionate, confidential presence whenever something is weighing on a mariner’s mind or heart.

A concern does not have to reach a certain level of seriousness before someone reaches out. It might involve stress on the vessel, difficulties at home, emotional or spiritual struggles, concern for a crewmate, or simply the need to talk with someone who understands life on the river. No matter how big or small the issue may seem, SCI’s chaplains are available to listen, offer guidance, and help connect mariners, their families, and shoreside personnel with additional resources when needed.

Whatever a mariner may be going through, no one has to face it alone. The SCI Chaplaincy Line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at 800-708-1998 or [email protected].

Read the full editorial in The Waterways Journal.