I think any ceremony seeking favor for a ship is a good thing. As all mariners know (but might not want to admit), all major ships do have "souls" -- made up of the toil, blood, sweat, and yes, even tears, of everyone who has ever worked and sailed on her. Ceremonies from the times of antiquity to now have emphasized the important role religion plays in protection from the perils of the sea. I hope that we always remember this part of our heritage.
