Our Mission:
To reach the boating community for Christ, empower believers to grow deeper in their faith and equip them to live purpose-driven lives, and to reach the lost with the message of hope and salvation, both on the water and beyond.
In June 2024, the Hope Fleet ministry team had the privilege of traveling to Exuma, a breathtaking island in the Bahamas, to build relationships, offer hope, and serve a community that welcomed us with open arms. Our mission was twofold: to meet with government officials and marinas to facilitate the delivery of crucial supplies through the private boating community and to connect with local ministries and organizations working to share the message of Jesus Christ. This trip was not only about meeting immediate needs but also about establishing deep, lasting connections with the people of Exuma. What we encountered left a profound and lasting impact on our team as God ordered our steps and set the appointments.
Exuma is a paradise of crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, but beyond its stunning natural beauty lies a community facing unique challenges. Our goal was to understand those needs and partner with local ministries to amplify their efforts. Our time on the island was dedicated to three key objectives: securing government approval to bring supplies through private vessels, forging connections with local ministries, and assessing navigational routes for future deliveries. While the scenery was awe-inspiring, it was the people we met along the way who made the trip truly unforgettable.
A pivotal part of our mission was to gain approval from government officials to bring essential supplies through the private boating community to the people of Exuma. Meeting with the Assistant Deputy Prime Minister and the Island Administrator was crucial. Both government officials welcomed us warmly, listened attentively to the vision, and asked how they could assist. By God’s grace, we were granted permission and clearance to bring essential supplies. Through these meetings, we were connected with marinas, schools, churches, and even received a personal invitation to contact the Government Dock Port Department whenever a delivery is scheduled. They were divine appointments—God’s favor was evident in every step. From these two meetings alone, it was clear that God was opening doors for Hope Fleet to expand its reach in Exuma.
Our time in Exuma also centered around fostering relationships with those already serving the island. We had the privilege of sharing meals and prayers with local ministries, each one passionate about discipleship and reaching the next generation. The leaders we met were deeply connected to their faith and their dedication to ministry was truly inspiring. One of the highlights was encouraging these servants of God in their kingdom work, strengthening the body of Christ through prayer and support. We will continue building these relationships and look forward to future partnerships in advancing the kingdom in Exuma together.
For Hope Fleet’s Ocean Reach department, ensuring smooth and safe operations is vital. To facilitate the offloading of supplies, we explored key ports and docks on the island. Thanks to the Administrator’s connections, we were granted access to a local marina where any Hope Fleet vessel can dock for unloading. Additionally, we assessed the Government Dock and nearby dinghy docks, ensuring ease of access for future deliveries. These preparations will allow us to better support the boating community and our local partners in the coming months.
As we left Exuma, we reflected on the profound impact the trip had on us. While we had come to discover, research, and explore needs and potential partnerships, it was the personal relationships and the warmth of the islanders that truly touched our hearts. The Exuma community embraced us as family, and the experience reinforced that our faith is not just about what we can do for others, but about how God builds relationships for His greater purpose. We are all part of the Body of Christ, each playing a unique role in His work.
As we returned home, we knew this was just the beginning. The connections we made and the insights we gained will guide our future efforts in Exuma. Hope Fleet is committed to continuing our work on the island, strengthening partnerships with kingdom-minded ministries and empowering them to expand their impact.
We invite you to join us in this ongoing mission—whether through prayer, financial support, or future trips. The people of Exuma are waiting, and together, we can make a lasting difference.
Our time in Exuma was a powerful reminder that faith, service, and love know no boundaries. It is through acts of kindness and connection that we experience the heart of God’s work in the world.
Please continue to pray for the people of Exuma, for the ministries and churches on the island, and for how Hope Fleet and the boating community can further impact this beautiful community. May God bless Exuma and its people, and may we remain a light in the world.