The 33rd annual Mariners Service and Blessing of the Great Lakes Fleet will take place this weekend in Owen Sound.
The service is being hosted by the International Ship Masters’ Association Georgian Bay–Huronia Lodge 15, with sponsorship support from the Canadian Masters and Chiefs Association.
Lodge 15 President Capt. Seann O’Donoughue announced the event will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 10 a.m. at St. George’s Anglican Church, located at 1049 4th Ave. East.
The annual service is a long-standing tradition in the local maritime community, drawing mariners from across the Great Lakes region. The gathering offers an opportunity to recognize those who work on the water and to seek a blessing for vessels and crews ahead of the upcoming shipping season.
As part of the preparations, members of the association will gather the day before the service to decorate the church with marine flags, transforming the space in keeping with the nautical theme of the event.
Organizers say the service is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend. A reception with food and hospitality will follow the ceremony.
