Joined by HRH The Princess Royal, Mission to Seafarers hosts its annual festive carol service honouring seafarers worldwide

The Mission to Seafarers (MtS) held its annual ‘Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols’ this week at All Hallows by the Tower in London, followed by a reception at Trinity House. The gathering brought together supporters, volunteers, and friends from across the global maritime community and the wider MtS family.
 


The event, sponsored by Shell, RightShip and Ardmore Shipping, paid tribute to the commitment of seafarers and their families, particularly at this time of year, when many spend Christmas far from home.
 


The service also recognised the tireless work of MtS teams around the world, from port chaplains and ship visitors to seafarer centre staff and volunteers. It further underscored the vital role of donors and supporters, whose generosity enables MtS to continue delivering essential care and welfare services to seafarers everywhere.
 


The nine lessons were read by dignitaries including HRH The Princess Royal, President of The Mission to Seafarers; Mr. Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping; and Mr. Tom Boardley, Chairman, The Mission to Seafarers,

The attendees once again enjoyed the music of the Lloyd’s Choir, who led the congregation in a selection of Christmas carols.
 


During the reception, HRH The Princess Royal, reflected on the work of all MtS's stations, as well as the vital human contact that the Mission offers seafarers across the world. The Princess Royal also highlighted the importance of supporters like those in attendance, who uphold all of the MtS’s efforts. Tom Boardley was also invited to speak, to mark his final carol service as Chairman following a nine-year tenure.
  


Speaking after the event, Peter Rouch, Secretary General of MtS, said: “Every year, this service reminds us of the extraordinary dedication of seafarers and the vital role they play in keeping global trade moving. At a time when many are far from home, our gathering is a moment to honour their service, support their families, and acknowledge the countless acts of care delivered by our teams around the world. We are deeply grateful to all our supporters, volunteers, and partners for ensuring that no seafarer faces hardship alone.”
  


Those wishing to donate to MtSs this Christmas can do so at https://www.missiontoseafarers.org/appeals/christmas-appeal-2025