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Christian Missionary True Stories #1
The Logos Life
Join Natalie Vellacott, a former Police Sergeant, on an exciting roller-coaster ride on-board the Logos Hope missionary ship, hosting the world’s largest floating book-fair.
Experience the many adventures as she sails the seas of South East Asia and attempts to befriend the often bemused natives.
Laugh with her as she inadvertently causes catastrophic cultural calamities and then attempts to sort them out.
Catch the vision as Natalie shares her Christian faith with others during her seemingly crazy journey into the unknown.
This enjoyable and compelling memoir will inspire, challenge and prepare you for your own experience as you seek to follow God’s path for your life.
Don’t miss out, pick up your copy and start reading today!
Experience the many adventures as she sails the seas of South East Asia and attempts to befriend the often bemused natives.
Laugh with her as she inadvertently causes catastrophic cultural calamities and then attempts to sort them out.
Catch the vision as Natalie shares her Christian faith with others during her seemingly crazy journey into the unknown.
This enjoyable and compelling memoir will inspire, challenge and prepare you for your own experience as you seek to follow God’s path for your life.
Don’t miss out, pick up your copy and start reading today!
284 pages, Paperback
First published December 31, 2016
20 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Natalie Vellacott
17 books958 followersNatalie Vellacott spent a decade as a police officer in England before swapping her badge for a Bible and heading for Southeast Asia as a Christian missionary. She volunteered on Logos Hope, a giant ship, for 2 years with 400 people from 65 other countries enduring the cultural catastrophes in order to enjoy the exciting adventures.
Natalie began writing in the Philippines when she fell in love with a group of street children addicted to a solvent called Rugby. Having founded a charity to help the boys and draw attention to their plight, she naively entitled her first book and has been trying to get it out of the Rugby Union chart ever since.
Natalie has also dabbled in Christian fiction for children, in the choose your own adventure style, mostly for the benefit of her nephew, Reuben, who is pleased that he takes centre stage.
Natalie is now involved in evangelism in the UK. In 2023, she published a new book about her recent experiences, as well as a series of contemporary short stories based on some of the parables that Jesus told.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 20, 2017
Having read Natalie Vellacott's previous works, "Planet Police" and "They're Rugby Boys, Don't You Know," I pretty well knew what to expect from "The Logos Life": a thorough, honest and often humorous recounting of real life events. Vellacott's writing remains report-like more than literary, but the vividness of her subject matter compensates for any deficiency of prose. This book will be instructive for anyone contemplating missionary service - especially in a large organization such as the ship ministry with which the author served - and is worth a read for pretty much any Christian interested in the subject.
February 9, 2017
The Logos Life Asian Adventures is a real-life story from the mission field by Natalie Vellacott. Natalie is a former policewomen who took, what was initially planned as, a two-year career break to serve on the Logos Hope ship ministry. The Logos Hope provides relief, Christian literature, and most importantly the Gospel, among other things, to nations that it visits. On Natalie’s trip, she toured much of Southeast Asia including the Philippines, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, etc. While serving, not only did God use her evangelistically but he also revealed her future ministry.
As you read this story, you get to watch her initial leap of faith in following God, the doubters and the questions, cultural mishaps, the challenges of ministry, and many great successes. This story is recommended reading for anybody entering the mission field and also for those who love books from the trenches. Natalie also has another book called They’re Rugby Boys Don’t You Know?, which takes readers deep into her ministry with troubled youth in the Philippines. Both stories are inspiring and challenging, with a side of humor. Highly recommended!
As you read this story, you get to watch her initial leap of faith in following God, the doubters and the questions, cultural mishaps, the challenges of ministry, and many great successes. This story is recommended reading for anybody entering the mission field and also for those who love books from the trenches. Natalie also has another book called They’re Rugby Boys Don’t You Know?, which takes readers deep into her ministry with troubled youth in the Philippines. Both stories are inspiring and challenging, with a side of humor. Highly recommended!
December 25, 2017
This book relates the author’s experiences on the missionary ship “Logos Hope” as it tours Asia over a period of two years. The author says this succinctly in the introduction where she declares, “What follows is an honest account of my personal experiences whilst serving on board the Christian missionary ship Logos Hope.”
The book is written in a direct, no-nonsense style similar to a letter back home from the field, and includes a play-by-play account of her assignments and activities on the ship. Yet for each experience she invites the reader to share in her feelings and emotions through the ups and downs, the joys and frustrations, and the efficiencies and flops of the voyage.
She provides insight into her expectations for many activities and assignments and the satisfaction or disappointment at how events actually played out. She relates the efficiencies and inefficiencies of the ministries and activities, assesses the theological soundness of the methods and application of numerous activities and outcomes, and reveals the victories and frustrations of many of the opportunities.
In the process she provides the reader a realistic, no-nonsense glimpse of Christian ministry, where both the missionary and recipient are real people with real hopes and expectations, talents and flaws, strengths and weaknesses, humor and humorless, beauty and well, sometimes not so beautiful.
In the process she reveals a heart for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ, for reaching out to people in need, for giving of self to others, for making each experience count for something, and for serving our Lord and Savior rather than simply pursuing a life of pleasure, comfort, or ease.
She also provides some solid insight for Christians at various points in the book, such as, “I believe the enemy seeks to undermine all Christian Gospel focused ministry by changing it into social justice or action”, and “I also strongly believe that Christians are called to evangelism wherever they are living and that secular work presents fantastic opportunities for Christian witness.”
Overall, this book provides some interesting content and considerations for the Christian. It is especially useful for those considering Christian ministry, especially long- or short-term missions, as it completely strips away any glamorous misconceptions of ministry and reveals instead an honest account of the joys and frustrations that are often encountered during such an undertaking.
Throughout the book I was reminded of the importance of ministry and of the idea that Evangelism should be a part of any Christian’s everyday life, that many in the world are suffering and need help from the more-fortunate ones, and that ministry often plays out in a less-than-glorious way from the perspective of participants here on the mortal side of eternity.
Having concluded the book on Christmas Eve this year, I find myself grateful for the author and for others who have served and sacrificed their lives and comfort in hopes of shedding God’s Light and of spreading salvation by introducing others to our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
May the Lord bless this author for her sacrifice, and lead her towards more fulfilling and effective ministry.
The book is written in a direct, no-nonsense style similar to a letter back home from the field, and includes a play-by-play account of her assignments and activities on the ship. Yet for each experience she invites the reader to share in her feelings and emotions through the ups and downs, the joys and frustrations, and the efficiencies and flops of the voyage.
She provides insight into her expectations for many activities and assignments and the satisfaction or disappointment at how events actually played out. She relates the efficiencies and inefficiencies of the ministries and activities, assesses the theological soundness of the methods and application of numerous activities and outcomes, and reveals the victories and frustrations of many of the opportunities.
In the process she provides the reader a realistic, no-nonsense glimpse of Christian ministry, where both the missionary and recipient are real people with real hopes and expectations, talents and flaws, strengths and weaknesses, humor and humorless, beauty and well, sometimes not so beautiful.
In the process she reveals a heart for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ, for reaching out to people in need, for giving of self to others, for making each experience count for something, and for serving our Lord and Savior rather than simply pursuing a life of pleasure, comfort, or ease.
She also provides some solid insight for Christians at various points in the book, such as, “I believe the enemy seeks to undermine all Christian Gospel focused ministry by changing it into social justice or action”, and “I also strongly believe that Christians are called to evangelism wherever they are living and that secular work presents fantastic opportunities for Christian witness.”
Overall, this book provides some interesting content and considerations for the Christian. It is especially useful for those considering Christian ministry, especially long- or short-term missions, as it completely strips away any glamorous misconceptions of ministry and reveals instead an honest account of the joys and frustrations that are often encountered during such an undertaking.
Throughout the book I was reminded of the importance of ministry and of the idea that Evangelism should be a part of any Christian’s everyday life, that many in the world are suffering and need help from the more-fortunate ones, and that ministry often plays out in a less-than-glorious way from the perspective of participants here on the mortal side of eternity.
Having concluded the book on Christmas Eve this year, I find myself grateful for the author and for others who have served and sacrificed their lives and comfort in hopes of shedding God’s Light and of spreading salvation by introducing others to our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
May the Lord bless this author for her sacrifice, and lead her towards more fulfilling and effective ministry.
July 16, 2017
Perhaps I must start this review with an apology. Unlike most other books, this one tells the personal experience of the author and I do not feel in any position to review a person’s life and opinions. I will therefore attempt to keep my review restricted to safeguard the author’s opinions and feelings. Should I fail in that, I apologize.
I wanted to read this book because a friend of mine is currently serving on the Logos Hope and I felt it would be nice to get an inside view of what his life on the ship is like. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but while reading I realized that I did have a number of expectations that unfortunately were not met. Of course I am aware that no author is required to meet my expectations, but in this case the reading experience was so frustrating to me, that I actually gave up. I only read about 70% of the book.
Expectation 1
Getting insight into the author’s spiritual experience
If I were to write a book like that about my missionary experiences, I would write it in a way that people could relate to the spiritual journey I was on, showing how God worked in my life to impact other lives. My hope would be that others would benefit for their own relationship to God.
Right in the beginning of the book the author states, however, that she is not prepared to share her relationship with God on a larger scale. Consequently, she gives only the briefest insights into her spiritual development and struggles, which is perfectly fine but left me wanting.
Expectation 2
Humor
There are bound to be many hilariously funny situations with 65 nations aboard a ship. The author tries to relate them, but to be honest: it didn’t make me laugh. I just sat there and thought “Well, I suppose it was funny when you were there.” Maybe it’s British humor? I don’t know.
Expectation 3
Showing how God is working in other nations
Having subscribed to the “Open Doors” Newsletter, I receive reports from all over the world how God is at work in people’s lives. These reports are usually very brief, but they touch me deeply. There were one or two situations the author described in the book that also touched me, but my overall impression was that missionary work is tedious and an organizational disaster and everything that could possibly go wrong will go wrong. Not exactly inspiring.
So what I am left with is an enumeration of events, the aim and purpose of which eludes me. That is why I gave up. Sorry about that. It shows me once again that non-fiction and me just don't go together.
I wanted to read this book because a friend of mine is currently serving on the Logos Hope and I felt it would be nice to get an inside view of what his life on the ship is like. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but while reading I realized that I did have a number of expectations that unfortunately were not met. Of course I am aware that no author is required to meet my expectations, but in this case the reading experience was so frustrating to me, that I actually gave up. I only read about 70% of the book.
Expectation 1
Getting insight into the author’s spiritual experience
If I were to write a book like that about my missionary experiences, I would write it in a way that people could relate to the spiritual journey I was on, showing how God worked in my life to impact other lives. My hope would be that others would benefit for their own relationship to God.
Right in the beginning of the book the author states, however, that she is not prepared to share her relationship with God on a larger scale. Consequently, she gives only the briefest insights into her spiritual development and struggles, which is perfectly fine but left me wanting.
Expectation 2
Humor
There are bound to be many hilariously funny situations with 65 nations aboard a ship. The author tries to relate them, but to be honest: it didn’t make me laugh. I just sat there and thought “Well, I suppose it was funny when you were there.” Maybe it’s British humor? I don’t know.
Expectation 3
Showing how God is working in other nations
Having subscribed to the “Open Doors” Newsletter, I receive reports from all over the world how God is at work in people’s lives. These reports are usually very brief, but they touch me deeply. There were one or two situations the author described in the book that also touched me, but my overall impression was that missionary work is tedious and an organizational disaster and everything that could possibly go wrong will go wrong. Not exactly inspiring.
So what I am left with is an enumeration of events, the aim and purpose of which eludes me. That is why I gave up. Sorry about that. It shows me once again that non-fiction and me just don't go together.
December 24, 2017
I received a mobi.file for this book from the author through a giveaway she had on LibraryThing, and the following is my honest opinion.
What do you if you’ve always been committed to your job as a police offer, working in various departments, getting promotions, and being well-liked by your peers, etc., until you’re starting to get more re-committed to your faith and to G-d each day. But, what if, as you do, both of these parts of your life you’re finding are becoming increasingly into conflict with each other, leaving you with not knowing what to do.
This is the precise conflict the author, Natalie Vellacott, had been facing in her own life while working for the Sussex Police Department in Sussex, UK, for ten years. Taking an extended leave of absence, she joins a Christian missionary ship, the Logos Hope for two years. The ship is a literal United Nations of people from over 60 countries, whose languages and cultures she doesn’t know anything about.
While the ship might be a missionary one, and the task of the missionaries on it to is help those in the country they’re visiting, they must pay extremely close adherence to the laws of that country; especially the ones which outlaw the teaching of the Gospel to anyone who’s not Christian, or even a member of a denomination other than the person interacting with a local native.
The author has done a marvelous job in meticulously describing her experiences over the two years she’d spent with Logos Hope. Her experiences go from the warm touching adventures to ones which might considered to be quite uproarious, as she gives her readers what life is like in the Asian countries they’d visited. In painting an accurate description of her experiences Ms. Vellacott has made sure to include the problems of communication between the missionary workers, like the Tower of Babel, due to the multitude of languages being spoken. She’d also witness and experienced clashes of cultural background, conflicting personal behaviors, and even the manner which their missionary work needs to be performed.
For having given her readers and myself, an insightful and entertaining foray into the work and daily life of Christian missionaries in Asia, I’ve given Ms. Vellacott 5 STARS for her endeavor here.
What do you if you’ve always been committed to your job as a police offer, working in various departments, getting promotions, and being well-liked by your peers, etc., until you’re starting to get more re-committed to your faith and to G-d each day. But, what if, as you do, both of these parts of your life you’re finding are becoming increasingly into conflict with each other, leaving you with not knowing what to do.
This is the precise conflict the author, Natalie Vellacott, had been facing in her own life while working for the Sussex Police Department in Sussex, UK, for ten years. Taking an extended leave of absence, she joins a Christian missionary ship, the Logos Hope for two years. The ship is a literal United Nations of people from over 60 countries, whose languages and cultures she doesn’t know anything about.
While the ship might be a missionary one, and the task of the missionaries on it to is help those in the country they’re visiting, they must pay extremely close adherence to the laws of that country; especially the ones which outlaw the teaching of the Gospel to anyone who’s not Christian, or even a member of a denomination other than the person interacting with a local native.
The author has done a marvelous job in meticulously describing her experiences over the two years she’d spent with Logos Hope. Her experiences go from the warm touching adventures to ones which might considered to be quite uproarious, as she gives her readers what life is like in the Asian countries they’d visited. In painting an accurate description of her experiences Ms. Vellacott has made sure to include the problems of communication between the missionary workers, like the Tower of Babel, due to the multitude of languages being spoken. She’d also witness and experienced clashes of cultural background, conflicting personal behaviors, and even the manner which their missionary work needs to be performed.
For having given her readers and myself, an insightful and entertaining foray into the work and daily life of Christian missionaries in Asia, I’ve given Ms. Vellacott 5 STARS for her endeavor here.
May 30, 2017
The sub-title intrigued me. This could be interesting. And it was.
Natalie Vellacott gave up her well-paying, prestigious career to follow God’s call and embrace a two year commitment to work as a missionary aboard the Logos Hope, a ship dedicated to mission work. This book is a recounting of that service. It highlights, in a matter-of -fact manner, the highs and lows, as well as the joys and frustrations that are part of living in close quarters with several hundred others from various parts of the world. Cultures clashes, language gaps, opposing personalities and differing views of how mission work should be carried out are all part of this true account. Ms. Vellacott doesn’t try to sugar-coat or glamorize the work. She is forthright about her own short-comings, weaknesses, and strengths as she recounts her experiences. She warns those wanting to get into mission work, including the reader, to “count the cost”.
The story, although interesting, seems, at times, somewhat fragmented as Ms. Vellacott occasionally goes off on tangents to explain some background material, some of which does not seem to tie in with the current incidents being recounted. This did not always make for the smoothest reading flow. These tangents are, however, interesting. Some of them could be told as stories in their own right.
While this is not ‘gripping’ literature, it is a worthwhile read, especially for those who want to learn more about one aspect of mission work.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Natalie Vellacott gave up her well-paying, prestigious career to follow God’s call and embrace a two year commitment to work as a missionary aboard the Logos Hope, a ship dedicated to mission work. This book is a recounting of that service. It highlights, in a matter-of -fact manner, the highs and lows, as well as the joys and frustrations that are part of living in close quarters with several hundred others from various parts of the world. Cultures clashes, language gaps, opposing personalities and differing views of how mission work should be carried out are all part of this true account. Ms. Vellacott doesn’t try to sugar-coat or glamorize the work. She is forthright about her own short-comings, weaknesses, and strengths as she recounts her experiences. She warns those wanting to get into mission work, including the reader, to “count the cost”.
The story, although interesting, seems, at times, somewhat fragmented as Ms. Vellacott occasionally goes off on tangents to explain some background material, some of which does not seem to tie in with the current incidents being recounted. This did not always make for the smoothest reading flow. These tangents are, however, interesting. Some of them could be told as stories in their own right.
While this is not ‘gripping’ literature, it is a worthwhile read, especially for those who want to learn more about one aspect of mission work.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2017
The author is a former police officer that who documented her daily tasks and interactions with other crewmembers between August 18, 2011 and September 23, 2013. She served on the Logo Hope Christian Missionary Ship as it travelled around Southern Asia visiting nineteen ports. Its main mission is to provide Christian outreach, literatures, and training. She recalls the skills she learned working in various departments and the relationships formed. Much of the book focuses on how the ministry days were organized. It was an interesting look at how Logos Hope uses and organizes volunteers on a global scale.
I was randomly chosen through a LibraryThing Giveaway to receive this book free from the author. Although encouraged, I was under no obligation to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I was randomly chosen through a LibraryThing Giveaway to receive this book free from the author. Although encouraged, I was under no obligation to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 27, 2017
A very well written, and viscerally honest personal account of two years spent living on board a Christian missionary ship traveling through South-East Asia. I have always admired people called to do missionary work, and I love reading their stories. The courage it takes to really put your body, and every moment of your life, on the line like that is one I don't possess. With that said, the author's experiences—and her lively thought and emotional processes—reveal that no matter how we do it, what's important is sharing the Good News, especially with those who have not yet heard it. This can obviously prove an immense, sometimes even life-threatening challenge with people of different races, cultures and religions.
Living on board a ship is a lot like life on our planet floating in space, but on steroids. The author writes, “It was necessary to keep reiterating the rules, as some people in every group spent most of their time trying to find any and every which way to bend or break them.” Yeah! Especially interesting to me personally was how she developed a deeper understanding of how to interpret God's will. Sometimes accepting whatever happens to us simply by saying, “It's God's will” isn't necessarily going far enough. Is it really God's will, or human error? Perhaps God's will for us is that we strive to practice a more robust “discernment of spirits” and act accordingly not just for our benefit, but for the well being of others as well.
Her sometimes harrowing adventures often strike a painfully familiar, and prophetic, note. Toward the end she writes, “We really are privileged in the West still to experience relative freedom of conscience and expression, although that is gradually being eroded.”
The author shares so many detailed and interesting experiences and anecdotes, it's really like being there with her, and with other members of the crew who “ministered to poor and sick people in countries with no Gospel light.” During a feeding ministry for people trying to quit drugs, for example, they became targets of violence, but, she writes, “Everyday we forgave them and started again prompting the question 'Why do you always forgive us?' Our response “because of Jesus'.” Amen.
Living on board a ship is a lot like life on our planet floating in space, but on steroids. The author writes, “It was necessary to keep reiterating the rules, as some people in every group spent most of their time trying to find any and every which way to bend or break them.” Yeah! Especially interesting to me personally was how she developed a deeper understanding of how to interpret God's will. Sometimes accepting whatever happens to us simply by saying, “It's God's will” isn't necessarily going far enough. Is it really God's will, or human error? Perhaps God's will for us is that we strive to practice a more robust “discernment of spirits” and act accordingly not just for our benefit, but for the well being of others as well.
Her sometimes harrowing adventures often strike a painfully familiar, and prophetic, note. Toward the end she writes, “We really are privileged in the West still to experience relative freedom of conscience and expression, although that is gradually being eroded.”
The author shares so many detailed and interesting experiences and anecdotes, it's really like being there with her, and with other members of the crew who “ministered to poor and sick people in countries with no Gospel light.” During a feeding ministry for people trying to quit drugs, for example, they became targets of violence, but, she writes, “Everyday we forgave them and started again prompting the question 'Why do you always forgive us?' Our response “because of Jesus'.” Amen.
August 14, 2017
A close look at a ship ministry from a front seat view! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Natalie tackfully highlighted areas she thought it could improve, showed the necessity of being a witness everywhere, and had tons of good missionary stories! I can't wait to read another of her books.
January 25, 2018
The Logos Life by Natalie Vellacott was a pouring out of heart and soul of her incredible stint on a Christian missionary ship, Logos Hope. The ship was already filled with dedicated workers, but God opened a door for her to serve and work doing a multitude of tasks.
Getting prepared for this work was not easy, as Vellacott had to take a total of nine injections which made her incredibly sick, but still pressing on and facing many hardships she encountered an almost humorous reaction amongst friends that serving on this kind of ship was some kind of luxury cruise. Not the case!
While reading this book, I highlighted many passages that jumped out at me or seemed quite amazing but decided to read this story as a journal that could have been sent to me by a friend, detailing the many adventures, mishaps, happiness and sadness that had befallen her.
Thankfully, Vellacott had a two person cabin due to her age and background in Police work while having her being selected to have a "family" to be connected with ... "we are one body made up of many parts, each and every one is important and dependent upon the other." Cor. 12:12-31
After intensive training, the group was off and as prepared as possible, with so many interesting interactions amongst staff and visitors. Fighting off a scary sickness possibly from some kind of bit was only one of many incidents that I found almost too much for one person to bare. The wrap up of this adventure was very touching and heartfelt, as I'm sure it will be in Vellacott's memory forever.
An enjoyable read that you can put down and take up again, not missing a beat as a young woman's dedication to make a difference in the lives of others, really DOES make a difference with God directing her path.
Getting prepared for this work was not easy, as Vellacott had to take a total of nine injections which made her incredibly sick, but still pressing on and facing many hardships she encountered an almost humorous reaction amongst friends that serving on this kind of ship was some kind of luxury cruise. Not the case!
While reading this book, I highlighted many passages that jumped out at me or seemed quite amazing but decided to read this story as a journal that could have been sent to me by a friend, detailing the many adventures, mishaps, happiness and sadness that had befallen her.
Thankfully, Vellacott had a two person cabin due to her age and background in Police work while having her being selected to have a "family" to be connected with ... "we are one body made up of many parts, each and every one is important and dependent upon the other." Cor. 12:12-31
After intensive training, the group was off and as prepared as possible, with so many interesting interactions amongst staff and visitors. Fighting off a scary sickness possibly from some kind of bit was only one of many incidents that I found almost too much for one person to bare. The wrap up of this adventure was very touching and heartfelt, as I'm sure it will be in Vellacott's memory forever.
An enjoyable read that you can put down and take up again, not missing a beat as a young woman's dedication to make a difference in the lives of others, really DOES make a difference with God directing her path.
December 7, 2018
An excellent, well-written book. This is the third book I have read by this author…all three are different…and I would highly recommend all three.
If Natalie Vellacott does not decide to become a full-time foreign missionary, she would make an excellent historian. She has a gift for interesting story-telling that focuses on the essential details and leaves out unimportant events. Even though there is an enormous amount of information conveyed…I doubt there is a wasted sentence or paragraph anywhere in the book. All 56 chapters and the epilogue kept me engaged and turning the pages…yet each chapter covered some unique occurrence on the ship…the Logos Hope…or some excursion by a team of missionaries from the ship out into the countries being visited.
I especially appreciated Natalie’s frank and insightful views on various ministry outreaches in terms of evangelical effectiveness…and the difficulties inherent in missionary work in third world counties. The love of Christ and the care for people came through in the book in Natalie’s desire to share the gospel message of salvation as her first priority…and bodes well for her and for anyone who ventures out into the mission field to take the Christian message of hope into the world.
The book also contains some much needed humor regarding language communication problems with so many different nationalities working aboard the ship…and the varied personalities Natalie came in contact with and became friends with during this two-year voyage.
Again…an excellent read, beautifully articulated, thought-provoking, and something that will stay with me for a long time.
If Natalie Vellacott does not decide to become a full-time foreign missionary, she would make an excellent historian. She has a gift for interesting story-telling that focuses on the essential details and leaves out unimportant events. Even though there is an enormous amount of information conveyed…I doubt there is a wasted sentence or paragraph anywhere in the book. All 56 chapters and the epilogue kept me engaged and turning the pages…yet each chapter covered some unique occurrence on the ship…the Logos Hope…or some excursion by a team of missionaries from the ship out into the countries being visited.
I especially appreciated Natalie’s frank and insightful views on various ministry outreaches in terms of evangelical effectiveness…and the difficulties inherent in missionary work in third world counties. The love of Christ and the care for people came through in the book in Natalie’s desire to share the gospel message of salvation as her first priority…and bodes well for her and for anyone who ventures out into the mission field to take the Christian message of hope into the world.
The book also contains some much needed humor regarding language communication problems with so many different nationalities working aboard the ship…and the varied personalities Natalie came in contact with and became friends with during this two-year voyage.
Again…an excellent read, beautifully articulated, thought-provoking, and something that will stay with me for a long time.
March 19, 2017
A behind the scenes look at a unique Christian ministry. This peaked my interest, having quickly visited a Logos ship in the 80's and not entirely understanding their mission. This was an excellent read, satisfying my curiosity and giving me plenty to think about.
As in a previous book (Planet Police), the author tells stories of her own mistakes, flaws and the everyday-ness of being human. However, in this phase of her life, she is a missionary, living on a big ship, trying to evangelize in Asian ports. The honest way the author presents herself, goes a long way to building a relationship with the reader. More importantly, Vallecott demystifies missions, countering the "happy-clappy" vision of perfect saints conquering all in blissful harmony.
I could see this book being used for small group study, since the author raises a number of questions about missions, culture and theology. Through her own day to day activities, Vallecott brings the reader along to many a "what would you have done in her place?" scenarios. Many of those scenarios ask the discerning reader; "is all we do in the name of Christ backed up by scripture?". A convicting question for all, irregardless of our ministry position.
Coupled with a study guide, this would make a great resource and teaching tool.
Excellent read, hope it receives greater exposure.
As in a previous book (Planet Police), the author tells stories of her own mistakes, flaws and the everyday-ness of being human. However, in this phase of her life, she is a missionary, living on a big ship, trying to evangelize in Asian ports. The honest way the author presents herself, goes a long way to building a relationship with the reader. More importantly, Vallecott demystifies missions, countering the "happy-clappy" vision of perfect saints conquering all in blissful harmony.
I could see this book being used for small group study, since the author raises a number of questions about missions, culture and theology. Through her own day to day activities, Vallecott brings the reader along to many a "what would you have done in her place?" scenarios. Many of those scenarios ask the discerning reader; "is all we do in the name of Christ backed up by scripture?". A convicting question for all, irregardless of our ministry position.
Coupled with a study guide, this would make a great resource and teaching tool.
Excellent read, hope it receives greater exposure.
July 4, 2017
Natalie Vellacott graciously sent me this book to read. It is the recounting of her 2 year mission experience aboard the Logos Hope ship and its stops in ports throughout southeast Asia. I enjoy reading real life experiential books and found the author did a good job of describing her life aboard ship, ventures on land, times of outreach to different groups of people, and challenges she faced. I confess, it made me see that there is no way I would want to follow in her footsteps. I admire her for her courage and fortitude in accepting the assignment. The author is honest relating her own turmoil when dealing with widely different beliefs about evangelism and service. I saw how those trials created growth and wisdom and guidance in her life. I would have liked to know more about Natalie's own background and what caused her to take on such a project, but I think she has written more about those aspects of her life in other books, which means I will be looking to read those in the future. The author portrayed a gracious spirit and willing heart to serve anyone that God brought into her path. She also showed that ministry can be physically, emotionally, and spiritually demanding. Yet, anything worth doing probably has the same effect.
June 18, 2017
Be careful what you wish for.
Natalie goes from one calling, British police officer of 10 years service, to another, missionary in southeast Asia on the Logos, for two years. She knows nothing of the various cultures or languages, and lives on a large ship with others from many different countries, many of whom have little spoken English. She meaningfully chronicles the good times and the difficult times, the silly and the challenging, with her coworkers and with those visiting the ship. Although it is sometimes very difficult for her, she adheres to the laws of each location which prohibit gospel teaching to those who are not Christian, or are of a Christian denomination which is dissimilar to that which the majority of the staff belong. But there is a lot of situational humor present, and some truly meaningful glimpses into life in many areas of southeast Asia. I feel that any reader can learn much by reading about the people and life experiences detailed in this memoir. I loved it!
I won it in a giveaway that I entered at LibraryThing.
Natalie goes from one calling, British police officer of 10 years service, to another, missionary in southeast Asia on the Logos, for two years. She knows nothing of the various cultures or languages, and lives on a large ship with others from many different countries, many of whom have little spoken English. She meaningfully chronicles the good times and the difficult times, the silly and the challenging, with her coworkers and with those visiting the ship. Although it is sometimes very difficult for her, she adheres to the laws of each location which prohibit gospel teaching to those who are not Christian, or are of a Christian denomination which is dissimilar to that which the majority of the staff belong. But there is a lot of situational humor present, and some truly meaningful glimpses into life in many areas of southeast Asia. I feel that any reader can learn much by reading about the people and life experiences detailed in this memoir. I loved it!
I won it in a giveaway that I entered at LibraryThing.
June 4, 2017
I found Natalie's account of her experiences aboard the Logos ship to be fresh and honest. Although her writing is not polished, she identifies the struggle which permeates the Christian community for understanding doctrine while appropriately exhibiting God's love. She is a candid and courageous woman with a passion for the Gospel commission. Very inspiring!
January 15, 2020
A fun and interesting account about life onboard the missions ship ‘the logos’, with its everyday events, relationships, dramas and fun! This is a brilliant read about life onboard the worlds biggest floating book shop! It is written form a Christian perspective about the high points and low points of seeking to reach those who don’t yet know the good news about Jesus. Would highly recommend!
December 25, 2017
This book relates the author’s experiences on the missionary ship “Logos Hope” as it tours Asia over a period of two years. The author says this succinctly in the introduction where she declares, “What follows is an honest account of my personal experiences whilst serving on board the Christian missionary ship Logos Hope.”
The book is written in a direct, no-nonsense style similar to a letter back home from the field, and includes a play-by-play account of her assignments and activities on the ship. Yet for each experience she invites the reader to share in her feelings and emotions through the ups and downs, the joys and frustrations, and the efficiencies and flops of the voyage.
She provides insight into her expectations for many activities and assignments and the satisfaction or disappointment at how events actually played out. She relates the efficiencies and inefficiencies of the ministries and activities, assesses the theological soundness of the methods and application of numerous activities and outcomes, and reveals the victories and frustrations of many of the opportunities.
In the process she provides the reader a realistic, no-nonsense glimpse of Christian ministry, where both the missionary and recipient are real people with real hopes and expectations, talents and flaws, strengths and weaknesses, humor and humorless, beauty and well, sometimes not so beautiful.
In the process she reveals a heart for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ, for reaching out to people in need, for giving of self to others, for making each experience count for something, and for serving our Lord and Savior rather than simply pursuing a life of pleasure, comfort, or ease.
She also provides some solid insight for Christians at various points in the book, such as, “I believe the enemy seeks to undermine all Christian Gospel focused ministry by changing it into social justice or action”, and “I also strongly believe that Christians are called to evangelism wherever they are living and that secular work presents fantastic opportunities for Christian witness.”
Overall, this book provides some interesting content and considerations for the Christian. It is especially useful for those considering Christian ministry, especially long- or short-term missions, as it completely strips away any glamorous misconceptions of ministry and reveals instead an honest account of the joys and frustrations that are often encountered during such an undertaking.
Throughout the book I was reminded of the importance of ministry and of the idea that Evangelism should be a part of any Christian’s everyday life, that many in the world are suffering and need help from the more-fortunate ones, and that ministry often plays out in a less-than-glorious way from the perspective of participants here on the mortal side of eternity.
Having concluded the book on Christmas Eve this year, I find myself grateful for the author and for others who have served and sacrificed their lives and comfort in hopes of shedding God’s Light and of spreading salvation by introducing others to our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
May the Lord bless this author for her sacrifice, and lead her towards more fulfilling and effective ministry.
The book is written in a direct, no-nonsense style similar to a letter back home from the field, and includes a play-by-play account of her assignments and activities on the ship. Yet for each experience she invites the reader to share in her feelings and emotions through the ups and downs, the joys and frustrations, and the efficiencies and flops of the voyage.
She provides insight into her expectations for many activities and assignments and the satisfaction or disappointment at how events actually played out. She relates the efficiencies and inefficiencies of the ministries and activities, assesses the theological soundness of the methods and application of numerous activities and outcomes, and reveals the victories and frustrations of many of the opportunities.
In the process she provides the reader a realistic, no-nonsense glimpse of Christian ministry, where both the missionary and recipient are real people with real hopes and expectations, talents and flaws, strengths and weaknesses, humor and humorless, beauty and well, sometimes not so beautiful.
In the process she reveals a heart for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ, for reaching out to people in need, for giving of self to others, for making each experience count for something, and for serving our Lord and Savior rather than simply pursuing a life of pleasure, comfort, or ease.
She also provides some solid insight for Christians at various points in the book, such as, “I believe the enemy seeks to undermine all Christian Gospel focused ministry by changing it into social justice or action”, and “I also strongly believe that Christians are called to evangelism wherever they are living and that secular work presents fantastic opportunities for Christian witness.”
Overall, this book provides some interesting content and considerations for the Christian. It is especially useful for those considering Christian ministry, especially long- or short-term missions, as it completely strips away any glamorous misconceptions of ministry and reveals instead an honest account of the joys and frustrations that are often encountered during such an undertaking.
Throughout the book I was reminded of the importance of ministry and of the idea that Evangelism should be a part of any Christian’s everyday life, that many in the world are suffering and need help from the more-fortunate ones, and that ministry often plays out in a less-than-glorious way from the perspective of participants here on the mortal side of eternity.
Having concluded the book on Christmas Eve this year, I find myself grateful for the author and for others who have served and sacrificed their lives and comfort in hopes of shedding God’s Light and of spreading salvation by introducing others to our loving Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
May the Lord bless this author for her sacrifice, and lead her towards more fulfilling and effective ministry.
February 9, 2017
I read this book through fairly quickly and really enjoyed learning more about life on the Logos Hope. I had heard lots about the OM ships over the years but didn't really know much about what went on onboard. I found Natalie's style of writing easy to follow and the short chapters were a great aid to concentration. Her descriptions of the variety of work, the camaraderie among the ship volunteers, the social life, and the many places they visited were all very interesting. It was also good to get a bit more knowledge of the different countries themselves and the many problems facing the local people mostly due to extreme poverty. It was especially interesting to read of the many short missions Natalie went on and the difficulties encountered due to the different cultures and way of doing things. It showed that even among Christians it is not always an easy road to walk, especially in such close quarters, and the different spiritual backgrounds of the crew members made for some tense moments at times! Overall I would heartedly recommend this book not just to anyone considering volunteering for a spell on the ship but also for those who may be thinking of any short term mission opportunities as I'm sure although the situations may be different the highs and lows may well be similar. Natalie herself says how much she learnt from this experience even though it was definitely not all sunshine and roses. It was a nice touch for the book to conclude with Natalie's testimony.
April 11, 2017
Some very humorous moments but also some emotional ones too.
December 12, 2019
Natalie's story gave me inspiration and reignited my passion for missions. I was able to relate to her really well too, as I could tell she had the gift of discernment. It was nice to see the ways God was using that gift of hers and how He could use that gift through me. I was considering the Logos Hope ship for the future, but had high and lofty imaginings about it, so it was good for me to read what is the reality of the ship. After reading this I do not think the Logos Life is for me.
This book really seemed to lack transparency on the part of the author though. I kept waiting for her to share her testimony of how she came to Christ, but she does not share her testimony at all.
This book really seemed to lack transparency on the part of the author though. I kept waiting for her to share her testimony of how she came to Christ, but she does not share her testimony at all.
July 8, 2024
I found this a really interesting read, in spite of the fact that it could have been written/edited a bit better. It was basically a memoir.
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