Bikers roared into Ayr on Sunday for an unusual service at Calvary Church.
Members of the Blue Knights and the Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry were welcomed to join the congregation for Sunday service, and a blessing of the bikes.
Todd Rowley, a member of the Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry, says it’s all about changing perceptions.
“Speaking in a church, it’s something that stirs up the congregation in a different way because they are not used to seeing motorbikes or tattoos, and beards and shaved heads in their church.”
Rowley began the service by thanking his fellow bikers.
“I know that not all of you are attendees at church. I thank you for stepping outside of your comfort zone.”
The bikers were invited to Calvary Church to share their personal stories of transformation.
Ted Wrobleski is a retired police officer and a member of the Blue Knights, a non-profit law enforcement motorcycle club. He says it was his idea to bring both groups together at his church.
“There are members of our club that could probably use a little enlightening, so I thought let’s get the boys out.”
Organizers admit that this unconventional idea was met with some initial skepticism.
“The reservations were that former alcoholics and bad guys that had been in trouble with the law were going to be in my church,” said Pastor Lloyd Oakey. “But I also knew that they had a wonderful change of heart.”
The service ended with barbecue before the bikers hit the road once again.
