Motorcyclists from the Chicago area journeyed to Our Lady of Czestochowa Shrine in Merrillville, Indiana, to receive a special blessing for their bikes, emphasizing safety for the upcoming riding season.

“We travel with a blessing,” stated Father Maciej Galle, the pastor of St. Priscilla Catholic Church and chaplain of the Chicago Polish Biker Clubs. Father Galle is an engaged motorcyclist who frequently rides with local biker groups.

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Father Galle collaborated with Father Mikolaj Markiewicz, the superior of Our Lady of Czestochowa Shrine, to lead the Mass and sprinkle holy water over the congregation of leather-clad Catholics gathered in the church.

“That doesn’t mean an accident is not going to happen, but that we feel much, much more safer,” said Jacek Kawczynski, president of Rajd Katynski.

Kawczynski began the event in Poland before relocating to Chicago.

Kawczynski continues, “We also try to change the image of the bikers. From the movies, you think Hell’s Angels or outlaws, but they are so many good people, great people, wonderful people.”

“We just don’t want to ride our bikes, but we want to be the apostles of Christ, you know, while riding the bikes,” said Father Galle.

The annual celebration takes place on the first Sunday of May, rain or shine.