Prime Minister’s Speech
Logos Hope
17 April 2009
TO THE CAPTAIN AND CREW OF THE LOGOS HOPE, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN…..
It is my distinct honour to welcome the Logos Hope back home to the Faroes.
We are most pleased that you have chosen to launch her 2009 season of service by setting a course towards the Faroe Islands and that you are beginning your visit with us here in the capital, Tórshavn.
To reach out the hand of fellowship in service to all people is the greatest and most precious act anyone can undertake. Our Lord Jesus said: “Love your God and your neighbour, as yourself.” Each and every crewmember of the Logos Hope puts these words into practice in their collective effort to be of service and to make a difference. I commend your selflessness and extend to you my utmost respect.
The suffering and misfortune seen around the globe is heartbreaking, and at times it may seem altogether impossible to better the condition of those who are suffering so much hardship and pain. However, we must never forget that each time a helping hand is given in love, a heart is touched and a soul filled with hope.
The challenge for each one of us who live in countries that are blessed is to reach out to those who need a helping hand … in other words … to strive to make a true difference in the lives of our neighbours. The services performed by all of you onboard the Logos Hope stand as a powerful example for all of us. You truly do make a difference.
The Logos Hope is now beginning a voyage around the world’s oceans to offer the Gospel’s joyful message of hope and to selflessly give a helping hand to those in need. To all, you do indeed offer– Knowledge, Help and Hope.
Hope is a powerful word. Without hope, there is no faith in the future, indeed no life. All humanity craves hope; it is a fundamental need of mankind. Hope creates faith and the foundation of hope and faith is love. We should all be love’s ambassador. Mother Teresa illustrated this so well when she observed: “I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world.”
In a world where countries are unfortunately all too often divided and struggle to seek unity, and stormy conflicts plague the peoples of the world, the Logos Hope serves as a beacon of light and hope for a desperate humanity. With a crew of some 350, who represent nearly 50 countries, she is proof positive that people from all over the world can join together to work constructively toward a common purpose, especially when they are all of one mind, namely to help their fellow man.
As most of you gathered here today know, the Logos Hope is the old Norröna, which for many years brought cargo and people to and from the Faroes. I personally am most pleased that she has found such an important new calling – that of bearing Knowledge, Help and Hope to those who suffer around the globe.
I am also quite pleased that so many Faroese have signed on and have chosen to volunteer their help onboard. It goes without saying that I am happy and proud that the homeport of the Logos Hope is the Faroes. She is indeed a stately representative of the Faroes and a most preeminent ambassador of our land.
I remember as a child when I would venture out from home, my parents or my grandparents would always call out to me: Jesus fylgi tær! which literally translates as: “May Jesus watch over you!” This greeting will I extend to you all onboard the Logos Hope, especially now as you set sail out into the world to fulfil your mission.
Thank you! And smooth sailing.
Kaj Leo Johannesen
Prime Minister