Sunday March 20 was Palm Sunday. The beginning of Holy Week to Christian's and Catholics. Mass began in the West Courtyard at the Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine. With Bishop Estevez presiding. Two of my own children were altar servers at the Mass. IT was a beautiful day even though the weather originally called for rain. After mass (usually around 12;30)  the annual historical procession to the St Augustine Marina for the Blessing of the Fleet.

Blessing of the Fleet in St. Augustine is a historical ceremony dating back to the city’s earliest days of Spanish colonial occupation. This event invites all vessels, commercial and pleasure, to receive a blessing from the Bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine.

This tradition has roots from the Spanish Colonial days when seafaring vessels would be blessed so as to have a safe journey.  Each vessel is encouraged to decorate with flags and bunting as well.

Please enjoy the slideshow.  And after the slide show a brief video of the laying of the wreath. 

Blessing of the Fleet; Laying of the Wreath Blessing of the Fleet; Laying of the Wreath 2016