We love to hear from our colleagues across the fleet about how they make the most of their time ashore. John White, HR Manager on board Queen Mary 2 tells us more about a recent crew tour to Fatima in Portugal:
Arriving in Lisbon with much anticipation, a group of Queen Mary 2’s crew disembarked, excited for a tour crafted especially for them. Though the day was not the warmest, the sky held out, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience in their warmer clothing – quite a contrast to the sun-drenched ports they had recently visited!
The Holy Site of Fatima
Fatima, revered as the Blessed Virgin Mary, holds a special place in the Catholic faith since her acceptance in 1930, thirteen years after her initial apparition. It was in Fatima that she appeared to three shepherd children, imparting three prophecies about the future. Her final apparition drew a crowd of over 70,000 people, solidifying her presence as more than just a rumour. In her honour, a monumental holy site has been erected, now a beacon for Catholic pilgrims worldwide.
A Melting Pot of Beliefs
With over fifty different nationalities working on board, our ships are a microcosm of diverse religious beliefs and preferences. Among this varied crew, a significant number are of the Christian faith, with many identifying as Catholics who deeply appreciate the significance of Our Lady of Fatima.
The Journey to Fatima
Our journey from the port to Fatima was nothing short of beautiful, with scenic views that made the one hour and twenty-minute drive a visual delight. The first stop was a local gift shop recommended by our driver. Here, we discovered that the prices were far more reasonable compared to those at the monument, making it a worthwhile stop. After forty minutes of shopping, we reboarded the bus and headed towards the monument itself, a mere five minutes away.
A Glimpse of History and Faith
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the stunning gardens and architecture that have been meticulously maintained for over a century. We were given three hours to explore the site at our own pace, allowing them to absorb the rich history and spiritual ambiance. Many took the opportunity to have lunch at one of the various eateries scattered around the site.
As I walked around, soaking in the serene atmosphere, I took the time to speak with some of the crew members to gather their impressions. The consensus was clear: there was something uniquely special about this place. The sense of love and devotion was almost tangible, enveloping everyone who walked its grounds.
Reflections and Personal Experiences
One crew member, Romero (International German Host), shared his thoughts:
This is a place of nourishment. This is place for prayer and sanctity. This excursion means a lot to me and I’m sure can be said for the others. I along with a few others will be putting together a prayer group onboard for those who wish to join. A safe place for us to share onboard.”
Another crew member expressed her gratitude for the opportunity: “Visiting Fatima has always been a dream of mine. To see it in person, to walk the same paths, and to pray at the monument is incredibly moving. It strengthens my faith and fills me with hope.”
And our Head waiter, said: “My mother was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer a few years back and we came to Lisbon. I came on this very same tour to pray for her. Through her battle she over came it and is living healthy and strong. I visit this place every opportunity I can to shower my gratitude. I almost didn’t this time as I thought I missed the sign up. HR manager John sent one last email, and I signed up straight away. This place brings me peace.’
Speaking with the different crew about their experience shows how little things like these tours have major impact on our mental health and help us to recharge our mental, and physical batteries.
The ties our crew hold, whether spiritual or emotional to these places make hearing their stories incredible.
The Enduring Legacy of Fatima
The tour of Fatima served as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of faith and devotion. It was a day filled with reflection, learning, and a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of beliefs that make up our world. For the crew of the Queen Mary 2, it was more than just a stop on their journey—it was a profound experience that left a lasting impression on their hearts and minds.
Ending the day
As we boarded the bus in the rain to return to the ship, there was a palpable sense of camaraderie and shared experience among the crew. Fatima had touched each of us in different ways, but the common thread was the sense of unity and peace that we carried back with us. It was a day that reminded us of the power of faith, the beauty of diversity, and the importance of taking time to appreciate the spiritual landmarks that dot our world.
The tour of Fatima will undoubtedly remain one of the cherished memories for the crew of the Queen Mary 2, a testament to the enduring power of belief and the universal quest for meaning and connection.