The Blessing of the Bikes Service has become a family tradition for many attending. Joel Groskreutz shared his personal story of heart wrenching tragedy, and loss. A motorcycle accident took the life of his eldest daughter at a very early age while riding in the sidecar of his bike, leaving him unconscious and hospitalized. Yet, poignantly, his message was one of comfort, inspiration, and faith.
"Joel's message was uplifting, real, and can happen to anyone," Monica Schutrop said.
"It was a message from the heart, and one of hope," said Hartland First Lutheran Church Pastor Dennis Frank.
St. Peter Lutheran Church Reverend Scott Williams led the congregation in prayer, concluding with the Lord's Prayer.
Motorcycles and bicycles filled the south end of Main Street, with passion-filled riders awaiting the blessing of their bikes. The blessing of their bikes provides peacefulness to those traveling the open road this season.
"Everybody needs the Lord’s help," Peggy Klotz said.
"It keeps us safe on the road," said Jason Casey.
"It makes me feel safer on the road," Rhonda Wenzel added.
"We pray for safe travels; accidents can happen one block away," Schutrop said.
"Having a little something extra along the road is great," said Diane Christensen
Other area ministers participating in the afternoon event were Pastor Pamela Jensen of the First Congregational Church in New Richland and Reverend Trevor Janich of Ellendale’s Assembly of God Church.
The Blessing of the Bikes event also serves another good purpose. Not only does the event bring fellowship, it achieves awareness of the significance of transportation safety.
"My husband crashed seven years ago. The Blessing of the Bikes event reminds us that riding safely is essential. This event is now a family tradition. It is important to have faith," said Jessica Schwartz.
In addition to bike safety, the Blessing of the Bikes event is good for the community. Proceeds benefit the New Richland Area Food Shelf.
"New Richland does a great job with the Blessing of the Bikes event,” said Bill Samuels. “Remember, it's that time of year to stay safe, pay attention, and start seeing bikes, especially around corners.”
The Blessing of the Bikes event brings people together with varying backgrounds, ages wide, and from all different walks of life. It creates instant friendships and lends itself to building relationships of a strong commitment to faith.
"My religious belief is that Faith goes beyond the church, it lives within ourselves," Lee Christensen said.
May the road rise to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back, and may all your journeying be joyous. And until we meet again may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Go in peace and safety. Amen.
