Wednesday, 29th October saw the Cornish Maritime Trust (CMT) invite Bishop David to Newlyn’s Old Quay to perform a blessing ceremony for the 144-year-old Cornish lady, the Barnabas. This historic vessel is one of just four operational ships recently awarded Flagship status by National Historic Ships UK.

Addressing an audience of more than 30 volunteers and community members gathered around and aboard the Barnabas, Bishop David began by noting his affection for the ship’s name. “I’ve always loved the name Barnabas — it means ‘son of encouragement’,” he stated.

He offered a prayer of thanks for the men of faith who originally built and fished with the vessel, and for the imagination, craftsmanship, and seamanship of all those who have sailed and preserved her across three centuries. Aboard the boat during the ceremony was Sharon Stevens, descendant of first owner Barnabas Thomas who had the built the boat in St Ives.

He offered a prayer of thanks for the men of faith who originally built and fished with the vessel, and for the imagination, craftsmanship, and seamanship of all those who have sailed and preserved her across three centuries. Aboard the boat during the ceremony was Sharon Thomas, descenadant of Barnabas Thomas who built the boat in St Ives.