Maine Sea Coast Mission Remembers Those Lost at Sea And Blesses the Bar Harbor Fleet with Area Clergy Day

June 2, 2008

The ocean, when combined with uncertain weather, can be an unforgiving adversary to those who earn their living from the sea. On Sunday, June 1, 2008, those who have lost their lives at sea were remembered at the annual Seafarer’s Memorial at the Bar Harbor Town Pier. Following a prayer by Reverend Gary DeLong, Executive Director of the Maine Sea Coast Mission, Senator Dennis Damon read a proclamation from Governor Baldacci recognizing Sunday, June 1, 2008, as Seafarer’s Memorial Day. Father Jack O’Hara then read the names of local fishermen who had lost their lives at sea and asked for silent prayers for any others lost at sea. .

The traditional blessing of the fleet followed the seafarer’s memorial service. Charles Phippen, Harbormaster, with great skill and patience, lined up the boats to pass alongside the Sunbeam V for the blessing for smooth seas and safe return. Area clergy including Reverend Bradshaw, Father Jack O’Hara, and Rev. Scott Records provided the blessings to many vessels ranging from lobster boats to pleasure boats, to a variety of other working boats, and to a Coast Guard boat.

Followi For the second year, the seafarer’s memorial service and the blessing of the fleet were followed by many educational activities, children’s games, and the availability of a variety of food items all of which was sponsored by the Working Waterfront Committee co-chaired by Kelly Corson and Terri Rodick. In addition to tours of the Sunbeam V and the Coast Guard vessel, there were a variety of educational opportunities provided by College of the Atlantic, Island Institute, Lobster Institute, MDI Bio Lab, Maine Sea Coast Mission, and a demonstration of the use of a survival suit by the Coast Guard. On Saturday night, May 31, the Working Waterfront Committee also sponsored a dance at Kebo Clubhouse. All proceeds derived from the Working Waterfront Committee activities are maintained to be a source of emergency financial assistance to fishermen from Mount Desert Island.