On Christmas Eve, 24 December 2025, we gathered at the Antwerp Harbour Hotel with seafarers from many parts of the world. Outside, ships were still being loaded and unloaded. Inside, for a few hours, there was warmth, laughter, and the feeling of not being alone.
For those who work at sea, Christmas can be a heavy day. Many had spoken with their families only briefly before coming ashore. Some had not been home for many months. You could see it in their faces — tiredness, but also gratitude for the welcome.
A Simple Christmas Service
At 19:30 we began with a simple Christmas Eve Service. No big ceremony. Just prayer, Scripture, a short reflection, and carols sung in different accents. The silence during the prayers said more than words could. People carried their families, their worries, and their hopes in their hearts.
Afterwards, several seafarers stayed behind for a quiet blessing or a short conversation. Sometimes that personal moment is what Christmas is really about.
Sharing a Meal, Sharing Stories
At 21:00 the atmosphere changed. Plates were filled, glasses raised, and conversations quickly crossed languages and cultures. Laughter grew louder. Phones came out to show photos of children, parents, fiancées waiting back home.
The gifts we offered were simple, but they were received with wide smiles and firm handshakes. One seafarer said, “Tonight I don’t feel so far away.” That was enough.
Why We Do This
This evening was organised by Stella Maris together with ASW Partners as part of our ongoing care for seafarers in the Port of Antwerp. But beyond organisation and logistics, it was something very simple: being present.
Christmas in the harbour will never replace Christmas at home. But it can remind people that they are seen, valued, and remembered.
To all who came: thank you for trusting us with your evening.
And to all who supported and volunteered: your kindness made this night possible.
