Two new rowing shells were dedicated and christened on a sunny Sunday along the banks of the Schuylkill River on May 18.
Keeping with tradition, each boat was named after one of EA's ten Stripes.
A glistening 4+ (with coxswain) named "Gratitude" honors 2024 Olympic gold medalist Nick Mead '13. "He went to Episcopal for 14 years, and he has said over and over again that 'I owe the school everything.' That is all Nick Mead. He's very grateful for all that he has been given, and he's never forgotten where he came from," said Varisty Rowing Coach Molly Konopka, Hon.
Upper School Religion Teacher and Novice Rowing Coach Topher Row offered the blessings. "Consecrate now we pray you, you gracious God, this shell to the Stripe of Gratitude. And may all who row in her be empowered through the wisdom of Gratitude to row the race that is set before them and in the life to come, to behold at last the radiance of your holy face."
A sleek 4x (without coxswain), "Kindness," recognizes former alumni director, rowing coach, and EA parent Bruce Konopka, Hon. "He has coached at all levels, but his heart is really in high school rowing," shared Coach Konopka. "He loved his high school rowing years, and he knows how impactful that can be to your rowing career and to your life."
"May we be instruments of your grace, showing kindness and compassion to all with whom we meet. Help us to live your goodness and kindness each day. And remind us that our actions express who we are more than words. Teach us to be kind to all we meet," read Coach Row's blessing.
As the EA rowing team and parents looked on, the shells were christened with six senior girls and five senior boys pouring water from a silver chalice.
"Sanctify this water. We pray by the power of our Holy Spirit that by this water these rowing shells may be consecrated to the Stripes of Gratitude and Kindness through Jesus Christ our Lord."
"This is a great day," beamed Coach Konopka.
The two Italian-made Filippi shells were added to the fleet by an anonymous donor.