June 02, 2023
Swinomish Indian Tribal Community
On May 18th, 2023, a crowd of more than 400 members of the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community and local residence gathered to celebrate the annual blessing of the tribe’s fishing fleet. The celebration began with a delicious seafood feast followed by a short procession to the Swinomish channel for the Blessing of the Fleet. The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition in which the local clergy pray for a safe and bountiful fishing season. Fr. Mel Strazicich, Pastor of St. Paul Catholic Church on the Swinomish Indian Reservation blessed the fishermen, fisherwomen, high school seniors and dignitaries.
