Douglas, Isle of Man
NAMING CEREMONY -- Few crew members remained dry-eyed during the yacht's Service of
Dedication on Sunday, 18th June. What a day! The sun shone gloriously as the crowd gathered. The Manx National Youth Band played and the Gale Force choir sang. His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor was in attendance
along with Sir Chay Blyth who read Psalm 107. The yacht was named "Isle of Man" by the President of Tynwald as the bottle of champagne ceremoniously cracked over the yacht's bow first time -- a great omen of
future success!
Prayers were said, hymns were sung, no mean feat with eyes full of tears -- such was the emotion of the moment. Just imagine how we felt, standing on the foredeck beneath our
gigantic Manx flag, as we listened to the following:
"Your first disciples, Lord, were men of the sea, hardy fishermen from the shores of Galilee. They knew from experience the perils
of the deep, the stormy wind and the angry waves. They also knew your presence with them in their darkest hour. We pray for those who face like hazards today as sailors, fishermen and yachtsmen.
Lord of the sea, be near to guard them in every danger and every need and let them hear your voice above the tempest. So bring them to their haven in peace. For your mercy's sake. Amen."
Needless to say, there were many well-wishers on hand to express "aigh vie as cair vie," in other words, "good luck and a fair wind." As the days rush by so fast towards the race
start on 10th September, the whole occasion reminded us that we have the support of the 70,000 strong Manx nation for whom we will be flying the flag around the world. We feel very privileged.
Manx grace -- GRAYSE nyn Jiarn Yeesey Creest, as graih Yee, as sheshaght gherjoil y Spyrryd Noo, dy row m, rin ooilley er son dy bragh. Amen.
