Logos Hope welcomes three millionth visitor on board

The Logos Hope welcomed its three millionth visitor while docked in Puerto Princesa, Philippines

Operation Mobilisation's ship the Logos Hope has welcomed her three millionth visitor on board.

The milestone was reached when 20-year-old Cyrille Fernando stepped aboard during the ship's visit to Puerto Princesa in the Philippines.

The Puerto Princesa resident and student of Environmental Science at Palawan State University was welcomed on board by Captain Dirk Colenbrander, Director Lloyd Nicholas and crew members in international dress.

"Today we celebrate that three million people have so far visited Logos Hope. That's simply amazing," said Mr Nicholas.

"Even more amazing is that three million people have experienced a moment of respect, of friendship, of love, and of hope as they have been welcomed on board, walked around the deck, met a crew member and heard the message of God's grace and love for them."

The ship's crew is made up of volunteers from around the world. When docked, teams go out to serve local communities in practical ways, like helping with construction projects or running hygiene workshops. Locals are also invited on board where they can make use of the ship's extensive book fair, which features thousands of educational and Christian titles.

Fernando was visiting the ship with her brother Irishtan and cousin Jhoshep, and was presented with a picture of Logos Hope, a Bible, a book about the history of the ship, and a gift voucher to spend in the book fair.

"I feel nervous and excited," Fernando shared.

The milestone was made on 3 July, the same day as OM founder George Verwer celebrated his 75th birthday.

A visit was made to the ship on the same day by the mayor of Puerto Princesa, the Honourable Lucilo Bayron.

Logos Hope departed from Puerto Princesa on Monday and is due to arrive at its next port of call, Kuching, Malaysia on Thursday.