Brilliant sunshine, blue skies, and a fresh easterly breeze create a wonderful day for the 37th Annual Blessing of the Fleet at Put-in-Bay.  The local Chamber of Commerce hosts this event each year to mark the start of boating season.  Island boats, public personnel, and community members take part in prayer for the success and safety of the men and women who spend their time on the water.

Deacon Jim O’Donnel, Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church; Rev. Robert Solon, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church; and Put-in-Bay Pastor Dan Muesckke, St. John’s Lutheran celebrated the special event with Bible readings and prayers for each of the participants.

“Our Father, we ask your presence upon this 37th blessing of the fleet.   We thank you for the beauty of the earth and the mighty waters that surround the land.  May we be responsible for the just and proper use of your creation.  Like the psalmist of old, we cry onto you for the protection of those who go to the sea in ships.  In your holy name we pray. Amen.”

The National Anthem and additional music was presented by the Put-in-Bay School Choir, directed by Gay Pippert-Ladd.

Today’s fleet includes Miller Boat Line, Sonny-S Boat Line, Griffing Flying Service, Jet Express, United State Coast Guard,  Boardwalk Harbor Taxi, Put-in-Bay Floating Tiki, National Park Service Longboat, Put-in-Bay Township Boat, Put-in-Bay Emergency Teams, and local heavy equipment operators.