Ministering to Mariners
At the helm: Rev. Robert Wilkins on navigating maritime ministry and seafarer wellness
David Helvarg & Vicki Nichols Goldstein talk with the Reverend Robert Wilkins about how his faith led him to his work with the Seafarers Ministry, serving ship crews arriving at the Port of Oakland, California. Wilkins and his team make ship visits, help crew members connect with families in places like the Philippines and Bangladesh, and check in on conditions such as time spent at sea and food quality — often doing follow-up when issues arise.
They also support mariners on shore leave with recreation, transportation, and other needs, and even coordinate doctor visits when necessary, frequently working with Customs and Border Protection to make it happen.
Each holiday season, the ministry delivers gift bags to seafarers and continues to grow its volunteer program, expanding ship visits from 250 vessels to 370 this year — supporting the people responsible for moving more than 90% of the world’s goods.
Wilkins also shares his perspective on shipping automation and decarbonization, exploring how these changes are already affecting seafarers and may reshape their livelihoods in the future.
Tune in to this insightful conversation with Rev. Wilkins and gain his unique perspective.
Rev. Robert Wilkins has an impressive background, having served as an ordained minister in the Baptist Church USA, a CEO of the East Bay YMCA, and an affiliate professor at the Berkeley School of Theology. His path to the maritime ministry, however, began with an unexpected calling, which he humorously attributed to his ongoing connection with the sea—first as a child visiting Santa Monica and later through his deep-rooted involvement in ministry.
From Kentucky to the Ocean's Horizon
Growing up in Kentucky, Wilkins’ early encounters with water were with the Ohio River, a far cry from the expansive ocean he would come to love. His first awe-inspiring sight of the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica left a lasting impression and marked a turning point, instilling in him a profound connection to the sea.
Ministry in Motion: The Seafarers Ministry
Rev. Wilkins passionately outlined the threefold mission of the Seafarers Ministry: conducting ship visits to ensure the wellbeing of seafarers, hosting seafarers at their International Maritime Center during shore leave, and providing practical support such as transportation and medical assistance. This mission echoes the organization's commitment to supporting the physical, spiritual, and emotional needs of seafarers, who often face extended periods at sea, isolation, and arduous working conditions.
Challenges on the Horizon
The podcast discussion illuminated significant challenges seafarers face, including work contract extensions, limited medical access, and the impact of industry automation. Rev. Wilkins emphasized efforts to advocate for more humane working conditions and policy changes, highlighting the spiritual and justice concerns that arise as seafarers navigate an evolving maritime industry.
Community and Connection
The ministry's ongoing efforts to create welcoming environments at ports, build robust community support through volunteer ship visitor teams, and facilitate meaningful connections with seafarers underpin its enduring mission. Through programs such as "Christmas at Sea," the Seafarers Ministry extends goodwill and support, ensuring every seafarer feels valued and remembered during the holiday season.
When asked how he sustains his own spiritual and emotional wellbeing, Rev. Wilkins credited a strong network of supportive individuals, including family and former pastoral colleagues. This network, alongside his family and grandchildren, anchors him as he leads a life driven by service and compassion.
Reverend Robert Wilkins' dedication to the Seafarers Ministry of the Golden Gate is a testament to the power of faith and service in bridging worlds. As he continues to connect, advocate, and support seafarers, his story inspires a deeper appreciation for the often-overlooked individuals who keep the global maritime industry afloat.
