Yesterday morning, the Jersey Lifeboat Association took part in the annual Gorey Boat Blessing alongside our fellow search and rescue partners.
The event was attended by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, Sir Jerry Kydd, and Lady Kydd, with a flypast from Channel Island Air Search marking the occasion. Clergy and representatives from Gorey Church, St Martin’s Catholic Church, St Martin’s Methodist Church, and Rev Martin Evans from St Saviour’s Church were also present.
The Jersey Lifeboat Association attended with both of its lifeboats, Sir Max Aitken III and Albert Pinel, taking part in the blessing from the water and representing the organisation during the service.
The service was led by Rev Jeff Wattely of Gouray Church. In his address, Rev Martin Evans reminded us that the water is not just for those who work upon it, but for everyone — whether used for livelihood, transport, or recreation — and that we all share a responsibility for safety and respect at sea.
Following the service, search and rescue teams and church representatives gathered at Tuk Tuk Thai, at the end of Gorey Pier, for a light lunch before returning to their stations.
The Jersey Lifeboat Association would like to extend sincere thanks to Rev Jeff Wattely for organising the service, His Excellency and Lady Kydd for their attendance, the participating churches, and all who came along to support this important event in the maritime calendar.
Your lives, your crew, your boats.
