Photo by Neil Farrell
Morro Bay’s Annual Blessing of the Fleet saw the return of retired Fr. Ed Holterhoff, who came out to bestow blessings of Holy Water on the men and women who venture onto the ocean for work and pleasure. Fr. Ed also blessed members of the City Council — Bill Luffee, Jeff Eckles and Mayor Carla Wixom — who attended the event.
Conspicuously absent this year were members of the Coast Guard, however, ocean rescue personnel were well represented by members of the Harbor Patrol.
The event started with a moment of silence for the late-Pastor Roger Evey, who used to organize the clergy to come out and read from Scripture, lead songs and bestow blessings for safe passage and a safe return home. The event was joined by Pastors Chad Wycoff, and Mark Hall. Vocalist, Aspen DuBois, sang a hymn and Amazing Grace accompanied on guitar by Tom Wright. And singer, picker and guitar-maker, Ray Riordan sang two tunes including a version of “Amazing Grace” that he wrote lyrics for directed towards fishermen. The blessing was followed by a free lunch at the Vet’s Hall of fish tacos, rice and beans provided by Mark Tognazzini of Dockside Too and his staff.
Blessing of the Fleet traces its origins back centuries in Mediterranean fishing communities.
The practice “is a blessing from the local priest and pastors that is meant to ensure a safe and bountiful season.”
In Morro Bay blessings are imparted for all who venture onto the ocean.
