Historical information

For Trafalgar Day, 20 October 1914, the Archbishop of Canterbury in England had "drawn up a new form of private prayer to be offered up specially for the sailors of the Fleets in the present crisis. He suggested its use particularly at noon as a silent prayer, when those at work may be reminded by the ringing of the " Angelus" bell to lift up their hearts to the Lord. The prayer was as follow:

"O Thou that slumberest not nor sleepest, protect, we pray Thee, our sailors from the hidden perils of the sea, from the snares and assaults of the enemy. In the anxious hours of waiting, steady and support those on whom the burdens of responsibility lies heavily, and grant that in dangers often, watching often, in weariness often, they may serve Thee with a quiet mind, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

The prayer illustrated by English artist G.M. Langley became popular. Prints were sold as gift for 7/9 each with an oak frame.

As mentioned in the ' Quarterly Jottings from our log" no 47 midwinter 1917: the etching was gifted to the Mission for display in the new Chapel by the Godfrey sisters.
The frame was gifted by their cousin's wife, Mrs William Scott Purves Godfrey ( ' Quarterly Jottings from our log" no 48 Michaelmas 1917).

Significance

The print was gifted by the Misses Godfrey, influential and long term members and supporters of the Ladies Harbour Light Guild. At the time of the completion of the St Peter's Chapel in September 1917, it was dedicated to the memory of all merchant seamen serving in the long war.
The print subject, of the sailor guarded by Jesus was no doubt intended to inspire faith and hope but also acknowledges and reflects the anxious days of waiting not only of the sailors and seafarers negotiating the dangerous waters and oceans but also the challenge for families, experiencing the widespread anxieties of a world at war.

Physical description

Wood framed and glazed engraved print of Jesus Christ with sailor in the foreground and printed inscription on mount below

Inscriptions & markings

Signature of artist lower left of print.: G M Langley
Printed on mount at lower right: "In the Anxious hours of waiting"