Kiss a Cod Fish?

Steve ' Kissing the Cod" Newfoundland Flickr - Photo Sharing!
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I asked my 2nd cousin Helen, what exactly was "Newfie Screech", she explained it was a dark Jamaican Rum shipped in barrels to Newfoundland which is then bottled right there on the island.  She goes on to explain that for a visitor to become a "Honorary Newfoundlander", you must drink a shot of rum and kiss a cod fish!. This is part of a Newfoundland Tradition called being "Screeched In"

Ok? I have kissed a dog before but never a codfish!  Neither my Mom, Aunt Agnes nor Uncle Ray have ever told me of such a ceremony before, so I decided to look into this further.

What I found was, that this type of ceremony must be conducted by a "True Newfoundlander", (someone born in Newfoundland) who may dress up like a Fisherman to conduct the ceremony. Honorees start with a shot of Newfoundland Screech then learn and recite some Newfoundland verbiage that goes like so. I have included it's translation for you, as well.

"Deed I",   -   ( Indeed, I am )

"Me Old Cock",  -  ( An Olde English term of endearment, meaning Buddy or Friend )

"Long may your Big Jib Draw!"  -  A Mariner's term meaning Good Luck - May there always be wind in your sails!

Once you have mastered this verse, (and they won't let you continue until you have),  
then comes the kissing of a real Cod Fish!

If you do everything right, you will then be given a official certificate making you a "Honorary Newfoundlander!"

Helen states this is a very controversial ceremony, some embrace it, others consider it derogatory.  Usually a great bit of fun! and most tourist enjoy it.

Something tells me, I better start practicing!

Thanks Helen!

                                                         Elaine