The Chapel of Ease in St David’s will this Sunday host the annual Blessing of the Boats, celebrating a tradition more than 150 years old.The service will begin at 9.30am at the Black Horse Dock, with Rev David Raths being rowed from St George’s to St David’s by members of the Sea Cadets, where he will bless any boats who motor or sail to the dock.The ceremony was originally scheduled to take place on the Coral Sea, but had to be moved to the St David’s dock due to mechanical problems.The traditional blessing of the boats dates back to 1849 when the Chapel of Ease was consecrated.Because there were no bridges or land links connecting St David’s to the rest of the Island at that time, Bishop Field was rowed across the harbour by four sons of clergymen to carry out the ceremony.As he was rowed through the St George’s Harbour, he blessed the boats that had gathered to watch, starting the annual tradition.A codfish breakfast will be held at the Black Horse Tavern, prepared and served by the ladies of the Guild of Chapel of Ease. Tickets for the breakfast cost $20, and will be available on the day, or by calling the St George’s Parish office at 297-2459.