It seems an odd thing for St Johns Church to support, but read on and I think you will see why.
The Morning Star Trust own and operate three yachts and take people to sea for anything up to 10 days. The people who come are expected to become fully involved. Yes it involves learning how to sail the vessel but it also includes preparing all the meals, cooking for a crew of 8 people, washing up, checking the engine, navigating, keeping watch and keeping the vessel clean and tidy. Everyone lives and sleeps on board in a vessel that has limited space that is more akin to a caravan.
The aim is to develop the individual in a supportive environment where they see the benefit of working as a team, experience something unique in an environment that can be challenging, and learn how to live with others.
For some youngsters sitting down at the same time to eat a meal that they have prepared can be unusual but this is what is expected every day on a voyage.
Confidence building is important, everyone gets the chance to steer a 38 foot yacht on the open sea and carry out tasks that help build up a “I can do this” attitude.
The Morning Star Trust is a Christian Charity which has a gentle approach, not imposing on anyone, but simply valuing them for who they are. For the Trust, to love God is to love life and as a charity the priority is people not profit.
You don’t have to be a Christian to sail with the Trust, people of all faiths or none are equally welcome.
The Trust also works in partnership with other organisations and churches. It is not limited working with Young People but includes church groups, pilgrimage voyages, Respite voyages and teaching sailing qualifications for all ages. For more information www.mst.org.uk or Youtube channel Morning Star Trust. Stewart Scott, Yacht Instructor
This article originally appeared in the St John’s Messenger. If you would like to discuss contributing a future article please contact news@valebenefice.org.uk.
