10/15/2026
What counts as a crisis? For many mariners, the answer may decide whether they reach out in a time of need.
For years, SCI’s Ministry on the River program has maintained a 24-hour phone number that mariners can use to reach a Chaplain whenever they are in need. But here’s what we’ve found: If mariners believe their situations must reach a level of a crisis before they call, they may wait too long to reach out or may never reach out at all.
That’s why we changed our 24-hour number’s name from a “crisis” line to the Ministry on the River Chaplaincy Line. It is a resource available — not just when there is a crisis, but whenever something feels important, troubling, or simply worth talking about.
Do you know a mariner, family member, or someone in the maritime industry who should have this number? Please pass it along: 800-708-1998.
Learn more about Ministry on the River, including how you can support SCI Chaplains:
https://seamenschurch.org/programs-services/ministry-on-the-river/
