The ship with the world’s largest floating bookfair has a new director for her onboard community.

Completing his term of almost three years in charge of Logos Hope, Pil-Hun Park (South Korea) handed over to his successor, Randy Grebe (USA) in a ceremony on board the vessel.

While the changeover had been planned months in advance, the manner in which it was marked altered slightly, to reflect the ship’s current precautions against the coronavirus pandemic. With the vessel closed to the public, outside guests were not present; nor was the symbolic handover of a Bible actually passed between the two men – who observed a 'social distance.'

In his departing devotional message to crew, Pil-Hun shared a Bible passage from Hebrews 11:6, which says: “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” In response, Randy affirmed, “It's a beautiful thing to be led the Word of God. Thank you, Pil-Hun, and your wife, Mi-Ae, for your leadership. You have been a great leader to us as individuals and to the community. To God be the glory.”

Pil-Hun reported, “The last three years have been full of answers to prayers – more than all we asked for or imagined. The community on board is healthy and vibrant and is committed to praying for each other and for those in the world who are least reached with the gospel.”

Randy cast the vision for what is ahead for Logos Hope’s community; whose schedule has altered in light of the global pandemic. He introduced the focus on “building, together with the Spirit” for the next three months. He said the 350 crewmembers are excited about the opportunity to build “our community, our ministry and ourselves” through a season of training and exploring creative outreach, while following necessary health protocols.

Leaders of the ship’s various departments joined in prayer for Randy and his wife Kim as he began his new role.

Pil-Hun and Mi-Ae are remaining with OM Ships and he is currently preparing to assume leadership of the organisation's USA base.