Blessing of the Inlet

Always the first Saturday of May, the "Blessing of the Inlet" did not disappoint.  Thousands were in attendance for a church service offering a blessing for the inlet and the community of people who live in the area. In its 23rd year, the festival takes place on the grounds of the Belin (pronounced: Blane) Memorial United Methodist Church in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina. Various charities and service organizations were present in booths in addition to food trucks, performers, children's events and an animal adoption program across the street. 

The idea for the event came from a Sunday school class back in 1997.
It was a beautiful moment, for me, as all gathered gave The Pledge of Allegiance AND sang The National Anthem... in a church service no less! It was a blessing to witness such unity in a group.

From the program book:
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What a blessing Murrells Inlet has been in the lives of many. Families and fishermen alike have been experiencing the salty nostalgia the permeates this friendly historical community. Strolling among moss draped oaks shadowing the warm summer days... feeling the crisp crunch of oyster shells beneath sanded feet, inhaling the swirling aromas of salt marsh and seafood while high tides gently lap against the boardwalk... hearing the far off cry of gulls blowing in from the sea blending harmoniously with the season's first chords of beach music...
NOTHING could be finer than to be in this part of Carolina.

​I agree.