Blessing of the Boats '23

Every year in West Point, PEI just before the beginning of the summer lobster season is the blessing of the boats ceremony. This year the local minister and Rev. Amanda Currie of The First Presbyterian Church gathered at the end of the harbour for the ceremony. Prayers, blessings, and readings were offered to seek protection for the fishermen, their boats, and the success of the lobster fishing season. ​Following the readings the main part of the ceremony involves the blessing itself. This can vary but often includes the religious leader sprinkling holy water or blessed water over the boats as a symbolic gesture of protection and good fortune.