Stonington Tradition: Blessing Of The Last Commercial CT Fishing Fleet
This year will mark the 70th Blessing of the Fleet. A tradition for decades, the blessing of Stonington fishing fleet is also a memorial to those who have died at sea. A fisherman’s mass, parade, and procession of decorated fishing vessels are part of the annual July event in Stonington Borough. The blessing, given for many years by The Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has him walk the line of quays conferring the blessing on every fishing vessel and their captains and crews. After boarding the flagship, they will put to sea and once outside the harbor entrance, past the breakwater in Long Island Sound, the Stonington Fishermen’s Association will place a wreath in the shape of an anchor on the water in remembrance of those gone before. As of 2022, 40 members of the Stonington Fishermen Association have perished at sea. >click to read< 19:05
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