What a blessing Murrells Inlet has been in the lives of many. Families and fishermen alike have been experiencing the salty nostalgia that permeates this friendly historical community. Strolling among moss draped oaks shadowing  the warm summer days...feeling the crisp crunch of oyster shells beneath sandaled feet...inhaling the swirling aromas of salt marsh and seafood while high tides gently lap against the boardwalk... hearing the far off cry of gulls blowing in from the sea, blending harmoniously with the seasons first chords of beach music...Nothing could be finer than to be in this part of Carolina.!

What a blessing! A blessing to be shared and to be celebrated. Hence, the birth of the first Blessing of the Inlet. The concept was conceived by a Sunday school class and fully realized by Belin Memorial United Methodist Church in April of 1997. The focus was all about giving a little back of what God had given us, so we could give to others and have FUN, FOOD, and CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP. The emphasis of the day is the actual Blessing Service on the creek side of Belin Church. The Reverend Mike Alexander performs the ceremony; asking the Lord to bless our beautiful inlet and community.

The first year however fell short of our goals due to devastating cold wind driven rains that sent the festival into the sanctuary. Our plan was derailed but not God's. We were humbled, but He was glorified! Little did we realize at the time, that He was laying a spiritual foundation that would far surpass our original goals.  God has revealed to us that the weather does not dictate the success of the Blessing of the Inlet - He does. Thankfully we are entering, what we pray, will be a tenth year of beautiful weather on this May 1, 2010.

In the past fourteen years this celebration has provided more than just food, fun, fellowship. We have all been blessed! The Blessing of the Inlet Committee has been able to give away tens of thousands of dollars thanks to the continued support of the local community.

May all of the glory go to God!

Blessing of the Inlet Committee