Mercy Ships
Training

An interactive training program designed to provide insight and understanding of Mercy Ships Culture and Core Values, and how to uphold, support and promote our organizational culture.

On Boarding

Mercy Ships’ On Boarding Program is led by our Staff Development Department and consists of 3 main elements: Maritime Training, Gateway, and Field Practice. The On Boarding Program is mandatory for all staff, and long-term crew serving on board 12 months or more. 

Maritime Training
Gateway
Field Practice
Kids On Boarding Program (KOB)

Maritime Training

Location: International Support Center (ISC), Texas, USA (program is occasionally offered in Africa)
Duration: 7 days

This training is for crew members serving on board a Mercy Ships vessel and is mandatory for safety familiarization and instruction for all seafarers. It consists of multiple components and typically occurs before our Gateway Program when held at the International Support Center in Texas. Maritime Training will take approximately 7 days in total and includes: Security Awareness, International Safety Management Code, Crowd Management, and Basic Training.

Gateway Program

Location: ISC throughout the year / on board the vessels once a year
Duration: 2 weeks

What

Mercy Ships Gateway Program is an interactive two-week training program designed to provide insight into and understanding of Mercy Ships’ culture and core values, as well as guidance on how to uphold, support, and promote our organization’s mission and vision.

Whether you are preparing to serve on a ship or on land, Mercy Ships believes that the how and why are just as important as what we do.

Why

This program is a time for learning, equipping, and discovering as you prepare for what’s ahead. Topics Include: Foundations of Mercy Ships, Personal & Interpersonal Development, Biblical Worldview & Faith Foundations, and Worldview & Culture.

You

We believe you are here for a purpose, playing a crucial role in the success of the Gateway Program. Your presence is invaluable, and we are thrilled to have you with us. Together, we look forward to the impactful ways God will work through you.

Field Practice

Location: On ship
Duration:1 week

Field Practice provides crew members the opportunity to experience the culture, community and faith foundations on board. During this week, we will engage with various cultural groups on board the vessels to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse worldviews and cultures. 

We will provide experiences within the community to hear from leadership, receive training from our People and Culture team, meet the Chaplaincy team, tour the ship, and serve alongside various teams and departments on special projects.  

Kids On Boarding Program (KOB)  

The Kids On Boarding Program (KOB) is designed to meet the transition needs of children coming aboard with their families. This program prepares them for ship life and cross-cultural living in Africa as they grow and learn to follow the example of Jesus.   

Why?  

Mercy Ships values children and the important role they play in our community. We aim to prepare the entire family for service on board. KOB is an intentional program for children that mirrors the Gateway Program their parents are attending. This ensures the whole family can learn, grow, and process together, as they prepare for the journey.   

Session  Topics
  • “All About Mercy Ships”  
  • “The Five Whys of Mercy Ships”  
  • “The Character of God”  
  • “God Speaks to Me”  
  • “All About Culture”  
  • “Transitions”