Interfaith blessing unites community in support of emergency services

Local fire and emergency service personnel, along with staff from the City of Whittlesea, will come together for the 27^th Annual Blessing of the Fleet on Saturday 7 October.

This important and inclusive event will also bring together representatives from various faiths to offer blessings for the emergency service personnel and their equipment ahead of the summer season.

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson invited local residents to attend the celebration and be part of this important event, which for this first time, is open to the community.

“The Blessing of the Fleet service is dedicated to the remarkable individuals and teams in our emergency services and signifies the start of preparations for the upcoming fire season,” Lydia said.

“It is an opportunity for us all to unite and express gratitude to emergency services personnel, both volunteers and career professionals, who work tirelessly, often at great personal risk to safeguard our community.”

“We will also hear from the leaders of our multi-faith congregations and pray for our emergency services crews, and the vehicles and equipment that enable them to carry out their work, protecting and saving life and property.”

“This multi-faith blessing reflects the spirit of unity and appreciation for the emergency service personnel who serve our community,” said Lydia.

Emergency personnel from Country Fire Authority, Fire Rescue Victoria, Forest Fire Management Victoria, Victoria Police, State Emergency Services, Ambulance Victoria and Parks Victoria, as well as staff from Whittlesea, Mitchell and Murrindindi Councils, will be represented at the event, together with religious leaders from the Bahá’í, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islamic Dua communities.

The event will be held outside the City of Whittlesea Civic Centre, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang from 10am-12noon. The ceremony will be followed by a free sausage sizzle and kids’ activities. 

Visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events for more information and to register your attendance.