On Monday, March 12, Pastor Erik R. Wilson Weiberg of Ballard First Lutheran Church made a trip down to the state Capitol in Olympia to give the Washington State Senate prayer.

Pastor Weiberg gave thanks for the beauty of Washington and the natural resources it offers. He acknowledged the state's successful industries, health care facilities, Grand Coulee Dam, and "a Space Needle that points to the sky as a sign of hope for the future and a reminder of the creativity and ingenuity that prevail here".

He prayed for "a spirit of inventiveness" as the state strive to educate people, and bring industry, work, and a sense of purpose to the unemployed.

In regards to the state politics Weiberg said, "As this legislative session draws to a close, we are mindful of the good things that have already been accomplished in our state in this year that is still dawning. We ask you to strengthen the people of this assembly as they confront remaining challenges. As there is work yet to be done, relieve their weariness. Give strength and courage of conviction in these coming hours and days. May the work accomplished among the people of this assembly bring about liberty, justice, and opportunity....Help [these senators] to act with the ageless wisdom of the past. With malice toward none. With charity for all."

Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, who represents the 36th legislative district, thanked Pastor Weiberg for his blessing stating, “I thank Pastor Wilson Weiberg for offering a prayer to the Washington State Senate. I also thank the Pastor for giving the annual Blessing of the Fleet at Fishermen’s Terminal. I am very pleased to have attended the event for many years and sponsored a Senate floor resolution recognizing the Blessing of the Fleet which I read at each year’s event."

Originated by the late Pastor O.L. Haavik of Ballard First Lutheran Church 84 years ago, The Blessing of the Fleet takes place each March as the state's commercial fishing fleet begin leaving for the Pacific and Alaskan waters. The service is conducted to ask God’s blessing for a bountiful season, peace upon the unpredictable sea, and a safe journey home.

This year's service will be conducted by Pastor Weiberg and Pastor Laurie A. Jones, both of Ballard First Lutheran Church. Various representatives from the government and the fishing industry have been invited to bring greetings and the public is invited to attend this celebration as well.

The service will take place at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 18, at Fishermen’s Terminal, 3919 18th Avenue West.