Church leaders bless the fleet ahead of Epiphany

TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — Epiphany is ingrained in the identity of Tarpon Springs. 

However, before the events begin, the Blessing of the Fleet comes first. 

Divers like Michael Tezza are thrilled to be a part of this. 

“I’ve been waiting for my whole life, pretty much,” he said. 

Michael is a first-time diver at 16 years old. 

However, he knows Epiphany is about much more than retrieving the cross.

“It’s just huge, he said. “You learn about it growing up, and you don’t realize how big and important it is until you actually are experiencing it like I am right now.”

Athanasios Haros, the Dean at St. Nicholas Cathedral, said the Blessing of the Fleet is about making sure those who make their living on the ocean are safe.

“All of these are working fishing boats, so we ask God to bless the very boats that will go out into the ocean and provide not only life source, food, but also material resources,” he said. “The families make their living.”

One hundred and twenty years strong, this is a tradition like few others.

From the blessing to the dive, this week’s festivities highlight heritage and the celebration of the baptism of Jesus Christ.