Seafarers relaxing and enjoying time off ship. - Photo: Fr Tony Cox
Nestled among the thousands of containers sitting on the docks in Port Botany in Sydney is one unlike any other. Rather than having its doors closed and locked like all the others, this one always has its doors open, reflecting the service and ministry of Sr Mary Leahy RSJ (a Sister of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart) to the seafarers who visit Port Botany.
Twenty-plus years ago, Sr Mary “set up shop” in the heart of the busiest part of the port. With a 40-foot container as “home”, tables and chairs are set up outside for seafarers of every nationality and creed, while inside, support of every kind is offered. Time spent off-ship is a time to relax, shop, or chat over the drinks provided.
Sr Mary from Ireland, is Australia’s “Sister Act”! Her unassuming nature has seen her awarded an Honour in the Australia Day Awards, and as many can verify, this was not an accolade she took for herself alone. She accepted the award in recognition of and tribute to seafarers worldwide.
When asked why she continues to dedicate her mission, life and ministry to seafarers, this is her response: “I have always been attracted to sharing the journey with seafarers. Being a foreigner myself and living in that transition between worlds with the freedoms and limitations it produces empowers me to be in solidarity with seafarers who are always in transition.
“Building relationships with them and their loved ones is crucial for me, whether that be when I am present among them or through social media, celebrating their ‘ups’ and endeavouring to show care during their many ‘lows’.
“Another aspect that goes hand in hand with the building of relationships is the area of advocacy - shining a light on the many abuses they suffer (often akin to modern slavery) in the line of their work. I endeavour to do this through collaboration with the other maritime stakeholders, especially those who benefit from the work that seafarers carry out often at great cost. I am not always popular because of this … but it is the right thing to do, in my opinion.
“I work closely with the unions as they have teeth. They can and do help seafarers in so many ways, locally and globally. Challenging the industry is a constant and ought to be, especially with those who sit on Port Welfare Committees and other places of power and those who might be generous in giving donations.
“I relish and celebrate the many cultural and spiritual traditions that make seafarers who they are.”
Sr Mary, on behalf of the seafarers whom you have helped and supported directly and the many causes you passionately work for, we salute you and give thanks. In your ministry and as part of the world efforts and dedication of Stella Maris, you are, along with so many, a beacon of Hope and Light across our seas. As they say in the maritime world, you certainly do “keep the flag off the ground”.
Columban Fr Tony Cox lives and works in Australia.
Listen to "A continuing “sister act"
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