Mercy Ships

In 1978, Don and Deyon Stephens began the process of finding a suitable vessel to fulfill the dream in their hearts of a hospital ship serving the world’s poor. After surveying many ships, the Anastasis (ex Victoria) was selected as the most suitable in relating to fulfilling the objectives laid out in the feasibility study. The purchase for $1 million was completed on October 5, 1978 through loans, primarily through a Swiss bank. Don and Deyon began recruiting crew to staff the ship and raising the funding to bring the Mercy Ship into compliance with international standards, which had recently expired. Four years were required - one year in Venice, Italy and three years in Elefsina, Greece to lay the foundation for future service and to pass sea trials with Lloyds Registry as a “100″. Ongoing efforts resulted in the transformation of the passenger ship into a hospital ship that served for almost 30 years. The Africa Mercy replaced the retired Anastasis in June of 2007, and is the largest charity hospital ship in the world. Following the model of Jesus, Mercy Ships believes the nature and character of a loving God must be demonstrated both visibly and verbally. From the beginning, Don Stephens has served as Founder/President of Mercy Ships. Don holds a bachelors degree in religious studies from Bethany College, Santa Cruz, California. Deyon, a registered nurse, serves as the Director of Training and oversees the Ships Watchmen program. Married in 1966, Don and Deyon have four grown children and became grandparents in 2002.