Mariners’ Church of Detroit holds 44th annual “Blessing of the Fleet” service

Mariners’ Church of Detroit held their 44th annual “Blessing of the Fleet” service on Sunday, March 9 at 11 a.m. The “Blessing of the Fleet” service has been traditionally held in March to mark the beginning of a new shipping season.

Church members, guests and members of the Navy League of the United States were invited to bring Burgees, Colors, Pennants and Pennons for presentation and blessing at the Altar by The Rev. Richard W. Ingalls, Jr., Rector of Mariners’ Church of Detroit.

There was also a presentation of the Captain Lewis Ludington Award to the Ship Masters chosen by the Detroit Lodge of the International Ship Masters’ Association (ISMA). The Rector and Trustees of Mariners’ Church established this award in 1994 to assist in promoting and perpetuating the heritage of virtues and good works of the ISMA, as ably exemplified by Captain Lewis Ludington (1858 – 1934.) The awards – a gold lapel pin and certificate – are provided by Mariners’ Church and will be presented by Ivan Ludington, Jr., a grandson of Captain Ludington.