Today the Sisters of Providence held their second annual ‘Bikers, Brunch, and Blessing’ service, an event that many bikers like Rodney and Tammie Deuster mark their calenders for.
The two have been riding motorcycles for years, and they know that every ride is risky.
“It’s fun. It’s invigorating,” said Rodney. “It’s a lot of things and it’s also inherently dangerous.”
And they always make sure to come to the Sisters of Providence for a blessing of protection.
“Motorcycle riders are among those who take to the open highways and really need that kind of protection,” said Sister Paula Damiano.
A series of prayers were said over the bikers, followed by the individual blessing of each bike.
“It’s a dangerous world out there and nothing better than you know a little sprinkling of the Holy Water to make us all feel better,” said Rodney. “A little help from above.”
Sister Damiano says this service is a time for fellowship.
“We feel that the woods is a sacred place. And so when they come here there’s something special,” she said. “There’s something that reminds them of the divine, of the holy.”
And it’s also a time for a little fun.
“I loved being on that bike! It was such a sense of freedom and I can see why people really enjoy it,” said Sister Damiano.
Brunch and bike riding aside, the service instills a sense of security for those embarking on the open road.
“It’s just an added margin. It’s a mental thing you know,” said Rodney. “You feel good and that’s what it’s all about.”
