Philippine Bishop asks for prayers for released of seafarers in Oman

A Filipino Catholic bishop has appealed for prayers for the safe release of the 18 Filipino seafarers on board the seized oil tanker, ST Nikolas, in the Gulf of Oman last week, according to the Catholic Bishops Conference (CBCP) News on January 18.

“We place our trust in God’s miraculous love for peace and diplomatic settlements and to soften the hearts of those who hold the oil tanker,” said Bishop Ruperto Santos of Antipolo, the CBCP Bishop Promoter of the Stella Maris Philippines.

Maritime charity Stella Maris, formerly known as Apostleship of the Sea, has been helping seafarers, fishers, and their families in the Philippines.

Santos said they are praying for a peaceful resolution to the disagreement between Iran and the United States that would lead to the release of the seized tanker and its crew members.

“May each one respect life, promote the common good, and protect individual rights and welfare,” said Santos. He also added that they stand in solidarity with the families of the 18 seafarers who are facing the challenge of their loved ones being held captive.

Santos said that they have already called for Masses to be offered for the safety of the seafarers. “We are one and united with those families. We urge them to be strong and lift everyone and everything to God. Be strong. Hold on to God. Pray with us. We offer our Holy Masses for you and your loved ones.”

Earlier, Iran seized the Marshall Islands-flagged vessel while it was in transit between the Iraqi port of Basra and Turkey. At the time of the seizure, 18 Filipino seafarers were on board the oil tanker. - (MTV)