Blessing the Life-boat, 1886. Creator: Unknown

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Blessing the Life-boat, 1886. Creator: Unknown

Blessing the Life-boat, 1886. From "The Graphic. An Illustrated Weekly Newspaper Volume 33. January to June, 1886"

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Media ID 36256927

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Benediction Blessing Ceremonial Ceremony Clergy Crew Launch Launching Life Jacket Lifeboat Lifeboatman Parson Priest Rnli Royal National Lifeboat Institute Royal National Lifeboat Institution Vicar Life Jackets Lifeboatmen

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EDITORS COMMENTS
an enigmatic and evocative image from the late 19th century, captured in the pages of "The Graphic: An Illustrated Weekly Newspaper" in 1886. The photograph, devoid of color but rich in detail and narrative, portrays a moment of profound significance in the lives of the brave men who manned the lifeboats of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) in Britain. The scene unfolds on the rugged coastline, where the raw power of the sea is palpable. A lifeboat, poised on its carriage, awaits the blessing of a clergyman, who stands at the bow, his back to the camera. His uplifted hand, adorned with a white surplice, pours forth blessings upon the vessel and its crew. The lifeboatmen, clad in heavy coats and life jackets, stand at attention, their faces a mix of reverence and anticipation. The Union Jack flies proudly from the mast, a symbol of national pride and the institution's commitment to saving lives at sea. The lifeboat is surrounded by other boats, their sails furled, and the crew of each vessel looks on, paying respect to the solemn ceremony. The image is a testament to the deep-rooted tradition of faith and community that underpinned the work of the RNLI. The clergy, be it a vicar or a parson, played a crucial role in the launching of lifeboats, offering blessings and prayers for the safety of the crew and those they were to rescue. This powerful image encapsulates the spirit of selflessness, courage, and faith that defined the RNLI and its volunteers during the Victorian era and beyond.

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