By: Allyson Hutchison
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
Numerous motorcycles, as well as their owners, gathered Saturday at Lakeview United Brethren Church in Camden, Michigan for the third annual Blessing of the Bikes. Three years ago, senior pastor, Stephen Smith, and a few other congregation members rode their motorcycles in a group. They decided they could use their group to help reach out to people that do not regularly attend church in a way that is fun and friendly.
“We don’t change our message,” Smith told me in an interview. “We are always like this.” You could tell it, too. After registration and the service, which featured motorcycles outside and in the front of the sanctuary, a free meal was provided for all. During the meal, a local band called, “Liberty Rain” preformed music that boosted the fellowship. All told, nearly 350 people attended Lakeview Sunday in the two services.
Almost 70 volunteers helped plan this event, only a few of which were employed by the church. “There are no gimmicks,” Smith informed me. No donations were taken during the meal and there was no entrance fee to ride. The purpose of this event is simply to share the word of God with those who would not have heard it otherwise.
Although the ride was canceled due to inclement weather conditions, the day was still a great occasion to spend time with friends and share the gospel. Ultimately, the coordinators wanted to make sure all of the riders remained safe since the route included riding into an area that had a tornado warning. However, Pastor Smith still gave the blessing and invited the riders back inside to enjoy more fellowship.
Allyson Hutchison may be reached at
publisher@thevillagereporter.com