Stella Maris Ukraine Delegation Visits United States, Highlights Ministry to Seafarers

A delegation from Stella Maris Ukraine visited the United States on April 28–29, 2026, including Rev. Oleksandr Smerechynskyi, Director of Stella Maris Ukraine, and Eugene Barsukov, Program Director.

During their visit, they were joined by Bishop Paul Chomnycky of Stamford, Connecticut, Bishop-Promoter of Stella Maris for the Ukrainian Catholic Church, as well as Rev. Paul Makar, pastor of St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church, Bethlehem and volunteer with Stella Maris and the Seamen’s Church Institute.

The visit included several key stops focused on the ministry to seafarers and maritime formation. The delegation visited SUNY Maritime College, the alma mater of Fr. Paul Makar, which prepares young men and women for service as Merchant Marine, Navy, and Coast Guard officers. While there, the group toured the college’s new training vessel, the MV Empire State VII, gaining insight into the formation of future maritime leaders.

The delegation also visited the International Seafarers Center, where they encountered seafarers from around the world and learned more about the pastoral and humanitarian support offered to those working at sea.

Throughout the visit, the delegation emphasized the importance of accompaniment and care for seafarers, whose work sustains global trade and economic stability. Their ministry reflects the Church’s commitment to those who often serve far from home and in challenging conditions.

The faithful are invited to pray for all sailors, especially American and Ukrainian seafarers, who place themselves in harm’s way to ensure the steady flow of goods and the stability of the global economy.