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DIOCESE
Mass of thanksgiving for Stella Maris

tella Maris celebrated its vital work supporting In a normal year, chaplains and volunteers undertake around
seafarers and fishers with a Mass in St Mary's 70,000 ship visits in 330 ports across 59 countries. They exist to
SCathedral, Aberdeen at the end of September. improve the lives of seafarers and fishers through their network
The Catholic seafaring charity, which was formed on the of local chaplains and seafarer centres, expert information,
banks of the River Clyde in Glasgow back in 1920, has a strong advocacy, and spiritual support.
presence in Aberdeen which is led by Deacon Doug Duncan Tim Hill, Chief Executive of Stella Maris, took time to address
and ably supported by his strong band of loyal volunteers attendees in the hall afterwards and emphasised how the charity
throughout the north east of Scotland. is a crucial lifeline for mariners throughout the world, who
Bishop Hugh Gilbert, who is Stella Maris Bishop Promoter often spend long periods away from home in difficult working
for Scotland, was chief celebrant on the night and he was joined conditions.
by Cathedral assistant priest Fr Leo Caputol Arche and Fr Gábor Supporters enjoyed some refreshments provided by cathedral
Czakó from St Peter's church in Aberdeen. staff with many confirming they would like to find out some
The occasion was made special with the commissioning of more about the work of the charity.
Stella Maris chaplains and ship-visitors who provide both Euan McArthur, Scottish Development Officer for Stella
practical and spiritual support to the 'people of the sea' when Maris, said: "We would like to thank everyone for attending
they arrive in Aberdeen and other Scottish ports from all over our Mass and reception in St Mary's Cathedral.
the world. "It was a wonderful celebration of our work and fitting to be
Stella Maris is the largest ship-visiting network in the world. in Aberdeen where there is such a strong maritime connection."

Bishop Hugh Gilbert OSB steps

down as Conference President

Early in November, the Bishops’ Conference of Scotland
announced new appointments to its key roles.
Bishop John Keenan was elected the new President
after Bishop Hugh Gilbert stepped down. Bishop Brian
McGee will serve as Vice-President, and Bishop Andrew
McKenzie takes on the role of the Episcopal Secretary.
The Conference have expressed their sincere gratitude New President, Bishop John Keenan flanked by Bishop
to Bishop Hugh Gilbert for his dedicated service as Brian McGee, Vice-President and Bishop Andrew McKenzie,
President.
Episcopal Secretary

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