On Day Five of YWAM’s international leadership meetings in Kona, the visionary thrust turned in an unexpected direction–toward the world’s seas and waterways. Throughout the day, leaders spoke about their desire to see YWAM renew its commitment to a global ships ministry.

YWAM founder Loren Cunningham recalled receiving a prophetic word in the 1970s about the birth of “twins” in YWAM: a university (later known as University of the Nations) and a ships ministry (later becoming Mercy Ships). Mercy Ships separated from YWAM in 2003, but the mission continues to operate small mercy vessels and riverboats throughout the world. “I believe this word to us today is a call to totally get behind Marine Reach [one of YWAM’s ship ministries], but also to renew and expand YWAM’s vision of reaching hurting people who live in ports and river communities,” said International President John Dawson.

YWAM founder Loren Cunningham was visibly moved by the expressions of commitment to this unfinished task and urged that all new initiations be built on a strong foundation of unity, humility and apostolic vision.

At Monday’s meeting Loren led an offering for purchase of a small ship called The Next Wave, and $202,566 was raised or pledged.

By Scott Tompkins, Kona, HI