|PIC1|Operation Mobilisation’s new ministry ship Logos Hope has docked at London’s Canary Wharf and is ready to greet thousands of visitors in the coming weeks with the Gospel message of hope.

The 12,000 tonne vessel was welcomed to the city by Deputy Mayor of London Richard Barnes who praised Logos Hope for “bringing hope, spreading understanding, spreading knowledge and drawing people in”.

“The message that you give is that of an inspiration. That inspiration is that we shall understand each other,” he said.

Logos Hope, a former passenger vessel, was launched earlier in the year in Denmark after a major refit which included the installation of an extra deck. It is home to the world’s largest floating book fair, with around 6,000 Christian and educational titles.

The international crew is made up of more than 300 volunteers who work without salary, including the captain.

Logos Hope is the first OM ship to visit London since 2001. In addition to welcoming visitors onboard for tours and seminars, they will bring hope into London’s communities through mission initiatives and social outreach projects.

The ship’s Captain Dirk Colenbrander said at the London launch: “We know about a God that loves us and we want to share that love that made a difference in our lives and not keep it for ourselves but share it with the people of the world.”

The ship was also greeted by London police. Commander Richard Morris said there was a “close connection” between the work of Logos Hope and that of the police.

“If we are spreading positive messages about harmony, that can only serve to bring about reductions in crime, disorder and unhappiness, so as far as I am concerned your work is our work,” he said.

Guests at the opening included Salvation Army Commissioner Betty Matear and London Peace Alliance chief executive, the Rev Nims Obunge.