On a sunny August day, five Young Parent Program students and staff walked to Salem Harbor to tour the Peacemaker.

Built in Brazil using traditional methods, the barquentine is operated by a group called the Twelve Tribes. The name Peacemaker reflects their vision of the tall ship as a seagoing representation of a life of peace and unity. Group members working on the ship learn skills including rigging, sail-making, sailing, navigation, marine mechanics and carpentry.

"The staff was so friendly," said instructor Ali Egan, who took advantage of the local attraction. "The students loved it."

They enjoyed learning about the huge ship and observed the crew at work, which included climbing the rigging in harnesses. They were impressed with the beauty and cleanliness of the ship and how the crew had made it feel like home.

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