FROM conducting regular on-board ship visits to ministering to large groups of culturally diverse people, Chaplain at The Mission To Seafarers in Richards Bay, Mark Classen, considers his current role his ‘calling’.
In 2013, Classen decided to ditch the upbeat city life of Durban and travel further north for a more tranquil, laid back lifestyle that many Zululanders can testify to.
After occupying various positions within the Seafarers Mission, such as Pastoral Assistant and Ship Visitor, Classens’ role now sees him having a hands-on approach in managing the justice and welfare of international seafarers.
‘My job primarily involves daily ship visits that can take up anything from five minutes to three hours of my time’.
‘I’m normally requested to conduct blessings and services aboard,’ he said.
The constant flow of foreign visitors opens up his spectrum to a range of different languages, cultures and personalities, which he considers to be a priceless experience.
With his vocation strongly rooted in his spirituality, Classen believes his faith is the guiding instrument in his day-to-day activities.
‘Faith is a doing word. You have to show people you believe,’ he says.
His wife Pam and daughter Ruth (22 months), as well as the support he receives from the minister’s fraternity, keep him grounded and make living in this small town much more enjoyable.
When he’s not inspiring guests with the good word or finds himself inundated with admin work (which he jokes about), you can catch this humble soul enjoying a game of squash, although he admits time hasn’t allowed him to squeeze in a game or two.
Mark urges Zululanders to actively get involved in the organisation’s outreach programme.
‘The upcoming Seafarers’ Christmas Carols evening will take place on Friday, 5 December at 6pm and I invite all residents to attend this joyous event,’ he adds.
