Well, now they’re guaranteed to win every race.
That’s what Fr. Michael Connolly said jokingly after reading a Bible passage and praying alongside the Our Lady of Lourdes rowing team.
Of course, it’s understood that prayer won’t assure the crew of success on the water this spring, but the practice does offer the athletes comfort and, the priest said, some lessons within scripture.
“It’s a reminder to them that God is with them everywhere, in all aspects of their lives,” said Connolly, who has served for five years as the chaplain at Lourdes. “He’s their strength, and I think them knowing that helps.”
The Warriors were among a handful of local teams that had their first official practice of the rowing season last Thursday and, in keeping with a longstanding school tradition, Lourdes opened with its annual “Blessing of the Fleet” ceremony at the Hudson River Rowing Association boathouse.
Following the prayer and a speech, Connolly splashed holy water in the direction of the rowers and coaches and their eight-seat shell.
The Catholic custom dates to the 15th century in European fishing communities, when local clergymen would bless the boats in hopes of the fishermen having a safe and productive season. The ritual became popular in maritime culture and has since been adopted by many rowing teams with religious ties, who’ll essentially be fishing for championships.
“I’ve grown up Catholic, so it’s not new to me, but I always enjoy taking part in this,” senior Cecilia Altavilla said. “I think deep down, it makes me feel a little safer on the water. It’s good to have that added confidence in the back of our minds.”
Lawrence Barron was raised Lutheran but, the senior said, he has learned a lot about Catholicism since enrolling at ...
