Blessing
of the Bikes |
The 9th annual “Blessing
of the Bikes” took place on Sunday May 21, 2006 at Holy Name Church at the X in
Springfield MA. The now annual blessing began with Father Paul LaFlamme back when he too
owned and rode a Harley. The tradition continues greatly due to the organization of Rose
Talbot-Babey, the support of Holy Name’s Men’s Club and Father John Connor who
does the blessing.
This sunny 3rd Sunday morning of May 2006 attracted a large group of bikers, their friends
and extended families. Following an 8 AM MASS, Father John moved amongst the majestic
bikes blessing both bike and driver. Every attending rider was given a momentous religious
medal.
There have been years when bad weather dampened the blessing though it never prevented the
blessing from taking place. On this particular May Sunday, several motorcycle groups and
clubs were at the “Blessing.” The Department of Corrections, Springfield HOGS
and New Northeast 3-Wheelers SideCar-Trike Club were among the bikers.
Holy Name Men’s Club sponsors a pancake breakfast on the 3rd Sunday of each month and
at this specific breakfast they serve a very unique “V-Twin Engine” shaped
pancake (an HD insigne). The proceeds from their breakfasts go to a yearly children’s
Christmas party.
“Blessing of the Bikes” is a blessing of safety. It also creates interaction
between the biker and the church. |
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