MURRELLS INLET, S.C. (WPDE) - For the 14th year in a row, thousands came out Saturday for the annual blessing of the inlet.

Members of Belin Memorial United Methodist Church led a bagpipe procession around the chapel and to the inlet. They played the gospel song Amazing Grace. A choir of more than 40 people sang the Star Spangled Banner and hymns.

The concept for the blessing was conceived by a Sunday school class in April of 1997. The pastor offers a blessing service for the creek and the community.

A festival followed with local musicians performing, an arts and crafts show and food vendors. Everything had a faith-based theme.

The money raised at the event goes to support community activities.