Freeport, Bahamas :: New crewmembers emerge from precautionary isolation to join the ship community and begin their service.
Logos Hope has received a fresh intake of crewmembers amid the challenges posed by international travel restrictions and health protocols.
In strict adherence to measures in place to limit the spread of coronavirus, new volunteers had to quarantine after travel and before they could mix with the rest of the onboard community.
Detailed arrangements were organised in two Caribbean countries: Curaçao and Bahamas; depending on where the new joiners could get flights to. One group embarked the ship in Willemstad, Curaçao and made the voyage in isolation, while the second group travelled ahead to quarantine ashore and board the vessel after clearance in Freeport, Bahamas. With all crew testing negative for the virus, there was great joy as the community welcomed its new members.
Forty-one people from 13 different countries are in the latest intake; from retired people to those who have just left school. The roles they will fulfil on board range from training officer to schoolteacher, with others to be assigned tasks in due course.
Creative ways were found to keep spirits up during the enforced separation. On board, crew cared for the new members from a distance with notes left on meal trays, video calls and livestreamed events. One young woman was delighted to borrow a ukulele and passed the time playing music. On shore, the group in the Bahamas could meet for distanced outdoor teaching on mission and got to know each other as they played games and discussed other cultures.
The sub-groups have now come together for orientation and safety training as they begin their one or two years of service on Logos Hope. They do so with gratitude for the support of many partners around the world.