Diocese of Orange hosts Blessing of Waves

The ocean will unite people of different faiths Sunday morning as Huntington Beach residents gather for the second annual Blessing of Waves.

The interfaith event is sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange and will feature a prayer service, a pledge to protect the ocean and beach, a blessing of the waves and attendees and a paddle-out.

“In Orange County, our beaches are more than simple geography; they are a cultural and spiritual center of our community. It is important that we recognize this common element in our lives, regardless of faith tradition,” said Most Reverend Tod D. Brown of the Bishop in Orange, according to a release from the diocese.

The Blessing of the Waves started last year and more than 400 people came out to the pier. This year, the event is part of the city’s Centennial Celebration.

The event is to take place from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Sunday at the Huntington Beach Pier.

— Britney Barnes