Keeping watch

Adult convert, Joseph Jarvis explains how experience at sea provided valuable lessons in becoming a Catholic

Our experience of new situations often leaves a lasting impression on our lives. In 1984 I was an 11-year-old Sea Scout, and a member of crew on-board MTB 102, a Motor Torpedo Boat. Our instructors – who were likely ex-Navy personnel – were older men and firm but fair. They spoke from experience and with an authority that we youngsters soon came to respect and obey. We were instructed in basic seamanship including navigation, signalling, knot tying, and practised for "man overboard" situations. We also took turns to keep watch.

One morning, I was woken from my bunk and led to the bridge. In this sector of the North Sea, we were very much on our own. The distant horizon was obscured by the darkness, and I could feel the boat pitching up and down in the eery quiet. The instructor then opened a drawer, took out a revolver and told me, “If anybody comes on board – shoot them.” I was taken aback, but of course the gun wasn't loaded. Even though we were not going to encounter an enemy vessel, tradition and training was instilled in us to be vigilant and ready to act. I welcomed the responsibility and Adult convert, Joseph Jarvis explains how experience at sea provided valuable lessons in becoming a Catholicremained on watch – alone – until relieved a few hours later.

The Royal Navy trains and equips its crews to respond effectively, not only to changing weather conditions but also to prepare to engage decisively with any enemy threats. On MTB 102 it was this tradition that was impressed upon the young crew and where being vigilant and responsible was essential. At a young age, being at sea broadened my horizons by preparing me to face potentially hostile Adult convert, Joseph Jarvis explains how experience at sea provided valuable lessons in becoming a Catholicencounters while supporting my crewmates.

As members of the body of Christ, we are not confined to the horizons of this world. The Catholic Church is oriented towards a distant shore. At the same time its members are engaged in a spiritual battle against the world, the flesh, and the devil. The reality is that sooner or later we will face the conflict between God's values and the values of society. We will confront temptation that seeks to draw us away from our course and will need to keep watch to identify false teaching, lies and deceit that surface from the darkness.

Not every member of the Church has been raised in the Catholic faith; the Church welcomes those who are new to the faith, as well as individuals from other denominations. As an adult convert who transitioned from the Novus Ordo Mass to the Traditional Latin Mass, I quickly realised that my lack of childhood education in the faith, combined with the influences I received from other denominations, left me somewhat unprepared and ill-equipped. Perhaps you can relate to this experience. Our spiritual journeys are not a pleasure cruise, and can sometimes feel like navigating stormy seas, filled with uncertainties and challenges. We can depend on the Holy Spirit throughout our battle with the world the flesh and the devil and draw upon God's love poured into us. As St Paul says, ‘…in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor heights, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8: 38-39)

My voyage into traditional Catholicism has been one of learning and discovery. I have sought advice and guidance from priests and fellow parishioners and have participated in additional catechesis to further prepare myself. Along the way, I have assembled a toolbox of essential resources, observing the items my Catholic brothers and sisters bring to church, such as Missals, prayer books, and Holy Rosaries. During Mass, I have paid close attention to know when to sit, stand, kneel, and make the sign of the cross.

At sea, it’s the experienced sailors— often referred to as the 'old hands'— who confidently guide and support new crew members by sharing their knowledge and experience. Similarly, by keeping a watchful eye, the Church can welcome those who seek the Traditional Latin Mass, offering them a long tradition of resources, insightful guidance, and thorough training to support their journey.