Berkeley Twp will be hold thier annual Blessing of the Fleet and Memorial Day Commemoration on Barnegat Bay
Memorial Day was formerly known as Decoration Day, it commemorates men and women who died while in military service to the United States. First enacted to honor Union and Confederate soldiers following the American Civil War, it was extended after World War I to honor Americans who have died in all wars.
Berkeley Township Memorial Day Weekend Activities
SUNDAY, MAY 29, BERKELEY: Noon, 16th Annual Boat Parade, Blessing of the Fleet and Memorial Day Commemoration, sponsored by The Berkeley Shores Homeowners Civic Association. Clergy will bestow blessing on all of the participating vessels. After the blessing a Service will be conducted on the open waters of Barnegat Bay east of Channel marker 39. A wreath will be laid upon the waters in honor of our service men and women. The U.S. Marine Corps Color Guard presents the colors and dueling. Taps will be played. The event can be seen by land on the Amherst Beach, Amherst Drive, Bayville; 732-267-2444.
The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition that began centuries ago in Mediterranean fishing communities. The practice is predominantly Catholic and a blessing from the local priest was meant to ensure a safe and bountiful season. However, there are numerous instances where the "Blessing" was initiated by an Episcopalian minister.
In most U.S. ports, the event was brought by immigrants who held strongly to their Catholic religious beliefs. The events that are part of the ritual vary by community and range from a simple ceremony to a multi-day festival including a Catholic mass, Parades, Pageantry, Dancing, Feasting and Contests. The Blessing of the Fleet is held at coastal fishing communities throughout much of the world. The two bible verses most used in Blessing of the Fleet are: Psalm 104, verses 24-41 & Psalm 107, verses 23-32.
"Most gracious Lord, who numbered among your apostles the fishermen Peter, Andrew, James and John, we pray you to consecrate this boat to righteous work in your name. Guide the captain at her helm. So prosper her voyages that an honest living may be made. Watch over her passengers and crew and bring them to a safe return. And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, be upon this vessel and all who come aboard, this day and forever. Amen"
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