The Rime of the Ancient Mariner

In part one of the "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" Coleridge introduces a dilemma between the sailors and the Mariner as the creature known as Albatross emerges in the plot. On page 258 the passage introduces the plot as fog creates conflict for the sailors and they need the wind to get through it. While the Mariner felt the Albatross was creating the fog, the sailors had a different perspective as they said, "at length did cross and Albatross, thorough the fog it came; as if it had been a Christian soul, we hailed it in God's name". (lines 62-65)  Thus, the sailors make clear in this passage that the Albatross is really there to help them as they find him responsible for creating the wind to pass through the fog. While the Mariner is the character of an elder, known of wisdom the sailors still choose to argue that his view point of the creature is wrong and that this creature is meant for good, as they worship the Albatross claiming it "hailed in God's name". (65) In my opinion in this part of the book I believe the Mariner for the three sailors are young and foolish and he is known for his power and his knowledge. Thus my question is, do you as a reader find the Albatross good or evil and why? Also, what is the significance of creating a mythological flying creature in the scene that primarily tells the story of a wedding, and what conflict arises when the Albatross enters the plot?