Devon --
We read all about you in the newspaper. My Mom and Dad said after seeing your picture you are pretty like your Mom -- but have your Dad's big smile. Our Dad went to high school with your Dad and our Mom went to college with him. We were down the shore and on our way to Mass when we read your story. We prayed for you there and when we stuck our feet in the ocean, we sent wishes your way. Mom and Dad sent wishes for your parents too. Did you know that it is a custom to have special blessings of the ocean on the Feast of the Assumption? The custom originated in 15th century Italy, when a bishop traveling from Venice, during a storm at sea on the Feast of the Assumption, prayed and threw his pastoral ring into the sea from the ship — and the waters were calmed. In some of these “blessings of the sea” celebrations, after the priest or bishop has blessed the water, the people wade out into the water and fill bottles with it, and apparently use it like regular holy water. This tradition came all the way from Europe and made its way to the Jersey shore! When my Mom was growing up, she said the Feast of the Assumption was always a time for visitors to get themselves into the ocean for a good dip into the sea on Mary’s feast day. The celebration is about the marriage of the seas, the blessed water, and Mary. But is also about sharing fellowship and beliefs and Mystery. God does indeed work miracles through mysterious ways! We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
With many good thoughts,
Mike, Susan, Matthew(11), Daniel(

and Elizabeth(5)
P.S. Your song rocks!