MURRELLS INLET, SC (WBTW) – Rev. Scott Johnson joined News13 Now at 9 a.m. on Thursday to talk about the upcoming Blessing of the Inlet scheduled for Saturday, May 7, 2016. Watch the video for a full explanation of the event.
The following is an event summary from visitmyrtlebeach.com:20th Anniversary, 18th year at Belin Memorial UMC
On May 7, 2016, The Blessing of the Inlet at Belin Memorial United Methodist Church, Highway 17-Business, Murrells Inlet, will celebrate its 20th anniversary as one of the Inlet’s most revered festivals. The festival is held annually on the first Saturday in May from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM and has grown to attract thousands of participants.
“When we first created Blessing of the Inlet 18 years ago, we wanted to create a festival filled with worship, food, fun, and fellowship that was highlighted by a ‘Blessing’ ceremony, celebrating our Lord’s continued blessings in our Inlet Community,” states Willie Lee, founder and chairman of Blessing of the Inlet committee. “And, generate funds for many missions, charities, and nonprofit organizations.”
The festival has grown to include a day of entertainment, more than 90 arts and crafts vendors, various Murrells Inlet restaurants and local food purveyors, children’s play area with inflatable rides and fun events. The entertainment schedule is packed with outstanding entertainment featuring gospel choirs; various dance groups, contemporary Christian musicians, and much more.
“There’s guaranteed something for everyone on the entertainment schedule,” Lee said.Blessing Service & “Stay to Pray”
This festival is highlighted by the Blessing of the Inlet ceremony which starts at 11:30 AM. The blessing will be administered by the Reverend Dr. Mike Alexander and the Reverend Scott Johnson.
“We invite everyone to come help us celebrate the Glory of God and all He has ‘blessed’ us with,” Lee commented.
Immediately following the “Blessing” ceremony, all visitors will be invited to “Stay to Pray” in the Belin sanctuary.
Belin’s Stephen Ministers will be on hand.Location, Cost, etc.
The festival is a free event with no admission or parking charge and is always held rain or shine. Due to Belin’s focus on the people and lives of Murrells Inlet and the surrounding South Strand, the Blessing of the Inlet does not include a blessing of animals.
Blessing of the Inlet has partnered with Recycle Grand Strand to go green and will be recycling tin, glass, aluminum, card board and plastic bottles. Organizers are encouraging all attendees to use the special marked recycle bins to dispose of their beverage containers throughout the event. Recycle Grand Strand is always working with the participating restaurants to recycle any waste that can be recycled.
Belin Memorial United Methodist Church is located at 4183 Hwy 17 Business, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576
For more information www.BlessingoftheInlet.com . #BlessingoftheInlet #InletBlessing
