(Newport, RI)- This past week, Sail
Newport took delivery of a brand-new fleet of J/22s from Waterline
Systems. On hand to celebrate the occasion were Sail Newport's Executive Director, Brad Read. Providing the blessing for the fleet was Reverend Mary Johnstone from Newport, RI. Here is the wonderful blessing and invocation as provided by Reverend Johnstone:"O God, Creator of earth & sky & sea; all creatures great & small:
We give you thanks this day for the vision & generosity that dreamed Sail Newport into being 30 years ago. We thank you for those who have served to expand this vision for the greater good.
We ask your blessing upon all adults & children who participate in the learning, beauty & discovery of sailing.
Shield them from every danger;
guide them in making safe decisions;
abide with them in weather both fair & foul.
Grant them a spirit of adventure,
fairness in competition,
courtesy & consideration in their dealings with each other,
& the gift of joy & wonder in the wind that powers their sails.
Finally, we ask your blessing upon these 14 new sailboats.
Bless each one from the top of the mast to the tip of the keel, from bow to stern, port to starboard, above decks & below, under sail & safe at their moorings.
And now may the Holy & living God bless, preserve & keep you – on your journeys & in your dwelling places this day & always. AMEN"
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