A basin of water and a cedar branch should be set-up to use to bless the vessels as they pass.

Welcome - Master of Ceremonies

In the spirit of reconciliation we would like to recognize that the City of Thunder Bay was built on the traditional territory of the Ojibwe people of Fort William First Nation-signatory to the Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850, and is also a historic Metis settlement.”

National Anthem
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise
The true North strong and free;
From far and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Mayor's Remark's

Opening Prayer
Our Father, we ask your presence upon this event of the blessing of the fleet. We thank you for the beauty of the earth and the mighty waters that surround the land. May we responsible for the just and proper use of your creation. Like the psalmist of old we cry onto you for the protection of those who go down to the sea in ships. In your holy name we pray. Amen.

Sailor's Psalm Psalm 107:23-31

Thanksgiving for seafarers
Almighty God we give thanks for all those who work at sea. We acknowledge our need for the food and raw materials they transport. We recognize that they are sometimes in danger and their long absences often involve sacrifices in their family life. Help us to show our gratitude not only in our words, but also in our actions. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Prayer for the Shipping Industry
Almighty God, we pray for the shipping industry, for those who build, own and manage ships. Give them the will to care for those who go to sea. And grant to all who work at sea the blessings of safe ships, good food and a just reward for all their work. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

We pray, O God for all seafarers as they fulfill the duties and face the dangers of their calling: the officers, men and women of the Royal Canadian Navy; the Canadian Coast Guard and Auxiliary; police and fire rescue; the fishing fleet; the pilots; and all who carry out the services of docks and harbours. Grant them your strength and protection and keep them in the hours of special need; for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

Prayer of Blessing
Today we gather to bless these ships and these boats; those who work on them; those who protect our country; those who protect our citizens; those who provide food from these waters; and those who use these waters for family and pleasure. Let us pray.

God of boundless love, at the beginning of creation your spirit hovered over the deep. You called forth every creature and the seas teamed with life. Your son Jesus calmed the Sea of Galilee, brought his disciples to safety, and filled the nets of his disciples. He has given us the rich harvest of salvation. Bless these ships and these boats, the equipment and all who serve on them and who would use them. Protect them from the dangers of wind and rain and of the perils of the deep. Bring us all to the harbour of light and peace. May the saving power of our Lord guide and protect us all. In the name of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Naval/Mariners' Hymn
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep:
O hear us when we cry to thee
For those in peril on the Sea

O Christ, whose voice the waters heard,
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
And walkest on the foaming deep,
And calm amid the storm didst sleep;
O hear us when we cry to thee
For those in peril on the Sea

Parade of Sail
Featured Vessels, Commercial Vessels, Government Vessels, Recreational Vessels under power, recreational vessels under sail, canoes and kayaks.

Concluding Remarks