The Milford Yacht Club presents the 5th Annual Blessing of the Fleet, a traditional celebration of the opening season for all boaters and lovers of the water, on Sunday, June 16th, from 4:30-6:30pm.
The Blessing of the Fleet is a centuries-old tradition in southern European, predominantly Catholic, fishing communities. A blessing from a local priest was meant to ensure a safe and bountiful season.
In 2009, the Milford Yacht Club restored the tradition for the local fishing, boating and sailing community. This year Father Maroney, St. Gabriel's Roman Catholic Church; Rabbi Farbman, Temple Emanuel, and Reverend Cynthia Knapp, St. Peter's Episcopal Church will extend a blessing to all boaters and fishermen in Milford Harbor. Milford's Blessing of the Fleet is unique as it breaks with tradition being an interfaith celebration.
The Honorable Benjamin G. Blake, Mayor, City of Milford along with USCG Flotilla 73 and the Milford Fire Department will also participate.
Schedule of Events:
- 4:30PM – 5:00PM – Opening ceremonies (MYC Commodore and Fleet Captain, Mayor Blake and clergy.
- 5:15PM - Gaily decorated boats follow in procession past the Milford Yacht Club where clergy blesses as they pass. Boats continue short distance into harbor and then return to port.
While Milford Yacht Club is a private club, this event is open to the public. For those not participating, excellent vantage points are available from the MYC club deck. Media can make advance arrangements for on-water coverage by participating in the procession.
For more information: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLNCV_r98XE
Press Contact:
Lois Barr
203-878-0504 (Office); 203-218-9376 (Mobile); lbarr@optonline.net