Families, supporters and officials gathered at the 48th Annual Provincial Seamen’s Memorial Service.
The local Lions hosted the event at the Canso Seamen’s Memorial Sunday.
In an email to our newsroom, Lion Ray White says Rev. David Wheeler of Canso United Baptist Church read the opening prayer followed by a song from Gertie Grant and Scripture reading by Father Jonathan Nnajio from the Star of the Sea Catholic Church.
Piper Sandra MacIsaac and Arid MacIsaac played a piper’s lament as the flags were raised in a special salute. Then 5th Canso Scouter Harold Roberts and other scouts lowered the flag which was followed by a moment of silence for lost fishermen and women.
The Honour Guard included members of the 5th Canso Scouts and the RCMP.
Guest speakers focused on the impact and unpredictability of the sea, of the dangers of the fishery, and the contributions of fisher-people.
Connor Porier brought a greeting from MP Mike Calloway who spoke of the importance of the fishery to the area.
MLA for Guysborough-Tracadie Greg Morrow stressed the importance of the fishery in Nova Scotia and the significance of the service.
Councillor Dave Hanhams from the Municipality of the District of Guysborough and Mayor Ron Chisholm from the Town of Mulgrave were also among the dignitaries who attended. Warden Greg Wier brought greetings from the District of Saint Mary’s and read the poem “Gone Fishing” by Delmar Pepper.
Lion Juanita Dort and Lion Janet Delorey read the names from the memorial and the “In Memory” list.
Brian Bouchie and Kevin O’Handley played two songs of tribute to the sea and Rev. Heather Manuel of Saint Paul’s United Church read the closing prayer.
On Sunday, August 18th the wreaths placed on the memorial will be taken out to Chedabucto Bay for a final blessing and laid on the sea.
MC/Lion Ray White thanking community and delegates
Kevin O’Handley & Brian Bouchie
Rev. David Wheeler, Father Jonathan Nnajiofor, Rev. Heather Manuel, MC/Lion Ray White
(Source: R. White)
Lion Cathy Derabbie, Lion Janet Delorey, King Lion Barry Lumsden, Lions Club NS 1st Vice District Governor Kim Stewart, MC / Lion Ray White (Source: R. White)
Hon. Greg Morrow, Mayor Ron Chisholm, Connor Porier, Warden Greg Weir, Cr. Dave Hanhams, Cr. Paul Long, Cr. Fin Armsworthy, MC/Lion Ray White (Source: R. White)
Display of wreaths (Source: R. White)
