The Blessing of the Fleet & Sailors is a tradition practiced in one way or another by almost all faiths. The purpose is to ensure a safe, productive and enjoyable boating season on the waters.
Boating provides a bounty for both sustenance and recreation, but it can also bring danger. Lake Erie is a prime example of this dual nature: we experience its wonderful recreational opportunities, then its dramatic and sometimes destructive storms and accompanying waves, especially when the wind comes from the northeast.
The Blessing of the Fleet tradition began centuries ago in Mediterranean fishing communities and has continued in most Christian faiths ever since. Judaism also follows this tradition as it emphasizes the Blessing of the Sailors on board.
Lakeside’s 15th Annual Blessing of the Fleet returns to Lake Erie. Rev. Kimberly Orr, Lakeside’s Director of Religious Life, will offer a brief liturgy to all boats, kayaks, paddleboards, Sunfish sailboats, canoes and their owners and passengers that pass by the Lakeside Dock. A Zoom simulcast is available: https://dub.sh/BlessFleet26. There will be a wooden boat parade following the event.
All owners of boats – large and small – are encouraged to participate in initiating the summer boating season here at Lakeside. Well-wishers are welcome at the Dock to enjoy spiritual music and join in greeting and blessing the boats and sailors. Children who have built a pond boat are encouraged to come to the Dock to have their prized possession blessed as well.
The Blessing of the Fleet & Sailors is coordinated by the Lakeside Wooden Boat Society and Religious Life Pillar.
