Saluda River blessing at Ware Shoals, led by Archbishop Creighton Jones, mixes ancient ritual with local grief. Thirty-one names, two recent deaths, and a wooden cross thrown thrice mark a surreal Sunday, as faith and safety intertwine along the shoals.

Acolytes from St. Mary’s Chapel stood at attention as the river received its blessing, hoping to end the cycle. City officials joined, highlighting the 31 recorded deaths since 1907. “It must be respected for what it is: a powerful display of God’s power.”

A wooden cross was tossed into the Saluda River three times during the blessing ritual.