The 84th annual Blessing of the Fleet has been scheduled for Sunday, March 18, 2012 at 2:00 pm at the Fishermen's Memorial site at Fishermen's Terminal in Seattle, Washington.
Originated by the late Pastor O.L. Haavik of Ballard First Lutheran Church 82 years ago, the service will be conducted by Pastor Erik R. Wilson Weiberg and Pastor Laurie A. Jones, both of Ballard First Lutheran Church. The pastors will offer thanks to God for the fishing community, remembering the risks they take each day to provide seafood for our tables, and pray that their families will be healthy and protected during their time of separation. The ceremony will also serve as a remembrance for those who went out to sea and never returned. As in past years, various representatives from the government and the fishing industry have been invited to bring greetings.
The spring departure of the commercial fishing fleet for the sometimes dangerous Pacific and Alaska waters has been regularly observed since Pastor Haavik started the tradition, and the public is invited to attend this celebration, asking God's blessing for a bountiful season, peace upon the unpredictable sea, and a safe journey home. Coffee and cookies will be served following the service.
