A movement where Christ is named
Mercy Ships
Relief & justice · Founded 1978 · by Don and Deyon Stephens · Garden Valley, Texas, United States
Mercy Ships is a Christian charity founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon Stephens that operates hospital ships to bring free medical care to some of the world's poorest nations. Its mission is to follow the model of Jesus by bringing hope and healing to the forgotten poor. Volunteer crews provide surgeries, dental care, and medical training in partnership with host nations.
What they do
Mercy Ships sails hospital ships to port nations, mostly in Africa, where volunteer surgeons and crew provide free operations for conditions such as tumors, cleft lip, cataracts, and orthopedic needs.
Alongside surgery, it offers dental care and training for local doctors, nurses, and health workers so that skills and capacity remain after the ship departs.
Crew members serve as volunteers, giving their time and skills, and the ministry works in partnership with host governments to strengthen local health systems.
The Scripture behind the work
Where the door leads
Mercy Ships follows the example of Jesus, who healed the sick and welcomed the overlooked. Free surgery and gentle care are offered as a picture of his love for the forgotten. If this moves you, you can volunteer your skills, give toward a surgery, or pray for the crews and patients.
Connect to the real thing
The Living Bread is a door, not the destination. The life is with Christ and his people.
People also ask
What is a Mercy Ship?
It is a hospital ship staffed by volunteers that docks in poorer nations to provide free surgeries and medical care.
Do patients pay for care?
No. Surgeries and medical care aboard Mercy Ships are provided free of charge to patients.