Thunderstorms were predicted by our weathermen all week leading up to Wisconsin Blue Knights II Annual Bike Blessing on Saturday, April 14 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Jefferson. Prior to the Blessing several e-mails, text messages and facebook information went out. In fact, I think close to 200 if not more invitations were sent. One day prior to the Blessing only a handful of brave bikers were willing to risk what the weather forecasters had predicted.Saturday started with clouds and temperatures in the low 50's; not bad for Wisconsin in mid-April! A few of us arrived at the church shortly after 9am. The Blessing started at 10am with coffee, donuts and fellowship. Shortly after we arrived, we were blessed with a clear, sunny sky and temperatures quickly started an upward rise to what would be later in the afternoon, the mid 70's!!
The Blue Knights Chapter had started with three dozens donuts,which quickly turned into seven dozen as numbers of riders and passengers kept arriving. By the time 11am rolled around, we counted 50 motorcycles. Ah, those brave souls who came to have their bikes and souls blessed no matter what the weather forecast was. Good thing, because those that stayed home not wanting to ride in what was supposed to be rain, surely missed out on a great day!
The Reverend Kenneth A Comstock began the blessing with a prayer. He thanked the men and women serving overseas and at home who continue to fight for the freedoms many of us take for granted. Reverend Comstock lost his nephew, 1st Lt David Johnson (brother of Comstock's wife Cindy). Johnson serving in Kandahar province, Afghanistan stepped on an IED and was fatally wounded. 1st Lt Johnson was deployed back in Dec 2011 and died a few weeks later in January 2012. Please continue to pray for all those in the Military and their families for a safe return home.During the short sermon we were reminded of the many blessings we have and not for the grace of God we would be empty souls. Let us live life each day knowing that it is a gift from God and what we do with it is ours to decide. The day can never be changed once it's over.
Some of those that were present at the Blessing included; friends & family, members of Rock River HOG Chapter out of Oconomowoc, WI., and Wisconsin Harley-Davidson, WI Blue Knights Chapter VI out of Milwaukee, and of course members of our own chapter. After a short ride through the countryside, the group was led to Sullivan Saloon in Sullivan, WI. In all over 30 riders & passengers continued socializing as we were served a wonderful lunch. If you are looking for a great burger (voted best burger in 2011 SE Wisconsin), comfortable atmosphere, at a reasonable price, make plans to eat here!
Shortly before 2pm, many of us decided we were very full from the 1/2 pound burgers and needed to enjoy the day the Lord has given us. More riding was in the plans. The WI Blue Knights Chapter II wants to thank everyone that came out and enjoyed their Saturday morning with us. We were truly blessed making new friends and seeing old ones. Thanks again to Reverend Comstock for his time and blessing along with St. Mark's for allowing us the use of their facilities.Until next year, Ride With Pride. Ride Safe, Sober and Straight!
2 comments:
Phil, THANKS for the GREAT write up! To ALL in attendence, you will agree that Phil hit it all on the head. THANKS to ALL who attended this year and supported our bike blessing. THANKS to those who were returning from years past, and those that made the event for the first time, THANK YOU! The blessing seems to get bigger each year, but this year hands down was the largest increase. I'm sure the weather had a lot to do with it, but it is because of YOU THE RIDERS taking the time along w/ passing the info on to others year after year. THANKS AGAIN and hope to not only see you next year, but out on the road riding this season.
Most importantly, STAY SAFE in your endeavors (using Phils word) whether it be on 2,3,4 or how many tires may be under your rear end as you travel down the road.
Sincerely,
Wayne Blanchard
aka Blanch
Secretary WI BKMC 2
I fully agree with Phil & Wayne. Our Bike Blessing continues to grow each year and we were blessed with beautiful weather Saturday. Thank You to St Mark's, Pastor Comstock and all that attended our event!!
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