The Blessing of the Fleet
The Blessing of the Fleet has been an annual tradition in Stonington Borough since 1954.
The celebration begins with a Fishermen’s Mass at St. Mary Church. Clergy, local fishermen and their families, parishioners, and local residents form a procession to the town docks. The Bishop of Norwich then places a wreath of remembrance upon the water at the mouth of the harbor, in commemoration of the fishermen from the fleet who died at sea during the course of their work.
The vessels of the fishing fleet, together with their captains, crews, and their families, are then blessed for protection and fruitful efforts in the coming season.
There are a dedicated group of volunteers along with representatives from the Portuguese Club of Stonington Borough and the Stonington Fishermen and Lobstermen Association who begin meeting in March to start planning and fundraising for the July event. New volunteers are always welcome!
For more information or to volunteer, please email Ellie Dunn.
Photo credit: Brian Taylor
