Blessing of the Remi

photos by Rick Rosen

 

In the spring of 2003, we had an Ascension Day celebration here in Newport, and while it was a rather, um, "entry level" affair,
we did the best we could with the resources we had.
It all started with a blessing of the oars - presided over by the highest ranking clergyman available.

Everybody was on their best behavior through the ceremony,
and then they messed around a bit with the remi.

 

It was nine years ago, but it feels like it was "forever ago",

and a lot of things have changed (including my weight - yeah, I'm the fat little guy on the far right).

 

Some of the gondoliers in these photos are still piloting boats, some are alumni, but all are friends.  We had a great time that day back in 2003 - one more link in a chain of fond memories.