The 66th annual Blessing of the Fleet will take place beginning at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, July 28, at St. Mary Church in Stonington Borough to honor and remember those who have died at sea on our local commercial fishing fleet, as well as to honor and bless the vessels--along with their captains, owners, crews and families--that will go out to sea in the year ahead.
Following the 10:30 Mass, a parade will take place through Stonington Borough that will include the statue of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen.
A procession of boats will make their way past the breakwater in Long Island Sound and a wreath in the shape of a broken anchor will be cast into the sea.
The Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, will bless the floral anchor commemorating the 39 members of the Stonington Fishermen Association who perished at sea while doing their jobs.
At the dock there will be hamburgers, hot dogs, chowder, chourica rolls and soft drinks available for sale. Activities, such as mini golf course, and live music will be provided by The Country Misfits, all of which is open to the public.