Founded in 1905 by two Congregational ministers, the Sea Coast Mission serves the people who live in the coastal and island villages of Maine. A staff of ten ministers provide pastoral care along this rugged coastline; then lay workers also supervise a number of outreach ministries.

The focal point of the Mission's work is a boat named the Sunbeam that is used to transport missionaries to the outer islands. In addition, it serves as a "floating church" for Church School, worship services, weddings, and funerals. The ship has hosted suppers, sing-a-longs, art lessons, and game nights. The average population of the islands visited by the Sunbeam is thirty-five people. In the midst of a long Maine winter, island folk are glad to see the Sunbeam arrive in their harbor. They are excited to speak with the minister and look forward to being invited to come on board for supper.

A major ministry of the mission is carried on at its outreach center in Cherryfield, Maine, called Weald Bethel, or "God's House in the Forest." Located in this sixty-five acre tract are the Recycle Ship, the Food Pantry, the Chapel, and a parsonage for the Chaplain. Good, clean clothing is distributed at the Recycle Shop. Hundreds of low-income families benefit from this ministry that makes well over a ton of used clothing available each week. The Chaplain visits with the folks at the Pantry and offers pastoral care in addition to the daily bread. Worship is conducted in the interdenominational chapel. Weddings frequently take place there as well. The fundamental purpose of all forms of outreach is to help the people of the area help themselves.

Additionally, the Mission offers a Christmas Program that reaches over 3,000 people. Churches and individuals donate various knit items to be used as gifts. Preparation for holiday giving begins in September. Education is the key to helping young people break the cycle of poverty that has gripped this area. The Mission offers coastal young people an opportunity to further their education through its Scholarship Fund.

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