In 1997 a retired couple, Bill and Emily Richard, from Live Oak, Florida came to offer their experience, talents and time to begin a ministry at Port Canaveral. Following the leadership of the Brevard Baptist Association Director of Missions Harold Brantley and its executive committee the Baptist churches stepped out by faith to begin the Space Coast Seafarers Ministry.

Bill and Emily prayed and developed relationships in the port and in churches. They began to visit cargo ships and in time gained permission to minister on cruise ships. They passed out Bibles and tracts and magazines. They shared the love of Jesus with hundreds of seafarers in dozens of ways.

They were able to obtain a van and an office. They provided phones and a computer for crew use. They shared their vision in worship services, prayer meetings, Sunday school classes, mission meetings and banquets across Brevard County and many joined with them through their prayers and financial support.