Soli Deo Gloria
Pastoral care for the sailors of Lake Erie — wherever the wind takes you.
A virtual chaplaincy offering prayer, counsel, confession, and a listening ear to sailors and their families on the inland sea. Visits are conducted in 30-minute blocks by Zoom or telephone, and are offered by donation as you are able.
"They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters; these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep."
Psalm 107:23–24
About Us
A chaplaincy for those upon the waters.
Lake Erie Chaplains was founded to bring the historic ministry of the Church to the sailors, fishermen, freighter crews, weekend mariners, and dockhands who live and labor on Lake Erie. Long hours, distance from home, and the solitude of the water can wear upon body and soul. We exist to remind every mariner that they are not alone — and that the Good Shepherd is on every watch.
Our chaplains are ordained Anglican clergy and trained lay ministers, each having completed advanced degrees and clinical pastoral education (CPE). They serve on a volunteer basis, giving of their time and training out of love for the sailors of Lake Erie and those who wait for them ashore. We hear from mariners of every background and tradition. You need not be Anglican, Christian, or religious to call. A ready ear and a quiet prayer are offered freely to all.
"Cast all your care upon him, for he careth for you." — 1 Peter 5:7
The Ministry
What we offer
Prayer & Counsel
A confidential half-hour to talk through what weighs on you — grief, fear, family, faith, or simply the lonely watches of a long voyage.
The Sacraments
Where appropriate, our clergy can arrange for the hearing of confession, anointing of the sick, and pastoral preparation for the sacraments of the Church.
Spiritual Direction
Ongoing pastoral accompaniment for sailors seeking to grow in the Christian life amid the rhythms of the working lake.
Crisis Care
A chaplain available by phone when storm, accident, illness, or loss strikes the crew. We will sit with you in the dark hours.
Bereavement
Pastoral support for sailors, their families, and crews mourning a brother or sister of the lake.
Blessings & Prayers for the Vessel
Brief services of blessing, intercession, and thanksgiving — conducted in person for you and your crew, arranged in advance.
How It Works
Simple, private, and at your watch.
- I
Reach Out
Send a brief note through the form below, or call us. Tell us only what you wish — name, a good time, and how to reach you.
- II
We Confirm
A chaplain will respond within 24 hours to schedule a 30-minute Zoom or telephone visit at a time that fits your watch.
- III
We Meet
At the appointed hour, you and your chaplain meet for thirty minutes. What is said is held in the strictest pastoral confidence.
- IV
We Continue
If you wish, we will check in again. Many sailors keep a standing monthly visit. Others call only when needed. Both are welcome.
Support the Ministry
By donation, as you are able.
Visits with a chaplain are never billed. We operate entirely on the freewill offerings of those we serve and those who love the lake. A suggested offering for a single visit is $25, but any amount — or none at all — is received with thanksgiving. No sailor is ever turned away for inability to give.
Request a Visit
Schedule thirty minutes with a chaplain.
All requests are received in confidence. We will reply within one day.
This ministry is intended for sailors, crews, and their families. If you are not part of the maritime community, we are glad to direct you to a parish near you.
Contact
We are at your service.
For pastoral emergencies, please indicate "urgent" in your message and we will reach you as quickly as possible. For all other inquiries — partnership, prayer requests, or correspondence — we are glad to hear from you.