Catholic priest blesses shrimp fleet at Biloxi, MS

Biloxi's Gulf Harbor hosts an annual shrimp festival, featuring a parade of the shrimp fleet. The highlight is the blessing of the fishing fleet by Father Mullen of St. Michael's Church, invoking protection for the fishermen. This ritual, originating 300 years ago from European coasts, involves blessing approximately 450 boats for a safe and prosperous journey. The best decorated boat, bearing the slogan 'God's gift to men from the sea,' wins a trophy, awarded to Captain Henry Kapsua in the shrimp capital of the world.

What is the main attraction of Biloxi's annual shrimp festival?

• The parade of the shrimp fleet

• The blessing of the fishing fleet

• The seafood cooking contest

• The live music performances

Who is responsible for blessing the fishermen and their boats during the festival?

• Father Mullen

• Captain Henry Kapsua

• The Mayor of Biloxi

• A local fisherman

Approximately how many trawlers and fishing boats receive blessings during the festival?

• 450

• 550

• 200

• 350

Where did the ritual of blessing the fleet originate?

• The Gulf Coast

• The Mediterranean

• The Adriatic, Normandy, and Portuguese coasts

• The Caribbean

What slogan is displayed on the best-decorated boat?

• The sea's bounty

• Catch of the day

• God's gift to men from the sea

• Sailor's delight