Every year, St. Paul’s, Put-in-Bay participates in the Blessing of the Fleet Vessels. This ceremony has been done for generations in seaport cities, and continues as the season begins on the island. The Rev. Bob Solon, rector at St. Paul’s, joins other local clergy from Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church to bless rescue vessels, Coast Guard vessels, ferry boats, water taxis, medical helicopters, and commercial watercraft and aircrafts. This ceremony is to safeguard vessels against the season’s storms and protect the fleet, passengers, and crew from any harm. The ceremony was held on May 14 this year, and offered fun for all ages as well as fresh coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies on the dock as the members of the community gathered to begin summer.