Ships of Mercy: Bringing Hope and Healing to the World's Forgotten Poor

The founding, development, charities, and miracles of Mercy Ships: Don Stephens' dream to have "a fleet of hospital ships, staffed with professionals the the highest level of expertise from every nation—including doctors, dentists, nurses, teachers, cooks, seamen, and engineers—volunteering to sail to the planet's neediest ports to serve the forgotten poor, offering all their expertise without regard to race, color, sex, or creed." following the 2,000-year-old model of Jesus.

The dream began to materialize in 1978. Through the generosity of thousands and the hand of God, there are now two hospital ships that are docked much of the year in the poorest countries to provide free life-changing surgeries, educate local medical professionals, help residents (re)build clinics and hospitals, and so much more.

Using vignettes of those served, the book relates how ships were acquired and overhauled, people stepped up to donate and to serve, and governments pitched in.

This edition includes the 2020 announcement of the purpose-built Global Mercy.