JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Boaters cruised along the St. Johns River for the annual Blessing for the Fleet for prayers of safe travels on Sunday.
The tradition goes back centuries with roots in the Spanish Colonial times when sea-faring vessels were blessed to have a successful fishing campaign, but also so those on board would return safely from their ventures.
The event was put on by the Jacksonville Sail and Power Squadron. Boats made their way to Chaplain John Hugus right along the Southbank.
They drifted by as holy water was sprinkled on the boat, along with a prayer to be safe.
“We’re blessing boats, that’s very historical,” Hugus said. “They gather together that God will bless them and be able to have a bountiful harvest and be safe recognizing that God is always ultimately in control.
Hugus said he’s been doing this for 20 years, and it’s great to see people take their safety on the water seriously.
The group also laid a wreath for members of the boating club who they’ve lost this year.
