Martyrs’ Shrine to Hold Second Annual Blessing of Boats and Waterways

The Martyrs’ Shrine is setting sail again this summer as they host the second annual Blessing of Boats & Waterways at the Midland, Ontario town docks on Saturday, June 7th. A major celebration in many parts of the world, the blessing of fishermen and the fleet is a tradition going back centuries.  By blessing the waters that surround the Shrine and sanctifying the passage for those travelling on the water, this practice pays homage to the early Jesuit missionaries who travelled from the east coast to the interior of Canada over the St. Lawrence River, Ottawa River, Lake Nipissing, and French River until they reached Georgian Bay.

The Friday before the blessing, Parkbridge Marinas and the Martyrs’ Shrine will be hosting the second annual Commodores Dinner presented by the chefs of Restaurant Sainte Marie, paired with wines from Andrew Carleton-Smith from the famed Vintage Conservatory. A fundraising event in support of the Martyrs’ Shrine and the Georgian Bay Land Trust, the dinner will include a four course gourmet dinner featuring Colio and Stoney Ridge wines from Ontario. This year’s Commodore Frank Morneau will lead the celebration.