About AOS
XXII AOS World Congress
Gdynia, Poland, 24-29 June 2007
In solidarity with the People of the Sea as witnesses of hope, through proclamation of the Word, liturgy and diakonia
The conference was attended by 270 delegates from 60 countries. Delegates included clergy, lay employees, volunteers, maritime personnel, observers and guests. Conference came together to reflect on the spirituality of AOS and its specific contribution to the maritime world.
The theme of the congress was "In Solidarity with the People of the Sea as Witnesses of Hope through Proclamation of the Word, Liturgy and Diakonia". Inspired by this theme, we believe that AOS is called to bring a “Christian humanism of hope” to the maritime world, through our presence and testimony in seafaring and fishing communities.
Hope is the sure and steadfast anchor of the soul. For Christians, this hope has a name: Jesus Christ, the Risen Lord. It is part of the AOS mission to bring this message of Hope to the maritime community by being the voice of voiceless people. The dignity of each person must be respected, this is the foundation for interreligious dialogue. Hope and solidarity speak through us as we reaffirm our commitment to the threefold responsibilities which are the essence of all our pastoral engagement.
proclamation of the Word of God
celebration of the Sacraments as the source and reason of our pastoral care
service, “diakonia”, to all but especially to the poorest
We pledge then to remain in solidarity with the People of the Sea as witnesses of Hope through Proclamation of the Word, Liturgy and Diakonia and to advocate a maritime humanism.
click here to read the message to the maritime world
click here for pictures from the XXII AOS world congress
The XXII AOS World Congress logo
The logo is centred on the Cross. The circle represents our world with seafarers moving from the deepest blue of the ocean into the lighter areas which culminate with the Church represented by the illuminated area. The red at the foot of the Cross represents the sacrifice of Christ for us all.
The diamond represents the national colours of Poland and the four points of the compass. The surrounding square encompasses other elements of the logo and symbolises solidarity. The anchor, the maritime symbol par excellence and symbol of our faith and hope, stretches across the world embracing all nations, races and creeds and, of course, the People of the Sea.