On July 18, 2008, while taking his grandson for a motorcycle ride near his Ashland, Kentucky home, Russell L. “Rusty” Bellomy was killed tragically and his grandson seriously injured by a drunk driver.

Excitement mounted moment by moment on Saturday, June 27, as Nazarene bikers streamed into Rockledge (FL) Nazarene Church for the first-ever, Nazarene Motorcycle Fellowship (NMF) event. Held in conjunction with the 27th General Assembly, participants included missionaries, pastors, lay persons, and a general superintendent who share the bonds of an enjoyment for riding and a passion for reaching the unsaved.

David Middendorf

The Nazarene Motorcycle Fellowship will be a clearinghouse of information and resources for individuals and churches that are interested in ministering to their local community through motorcycles. When you register with NMF you are simply becoming a resource for others who feel led to minister in this unique community. There are a great variety of motorcycle ministries who minister to a wide range of bikers. NMF exists to equip and encourage individuals and churches to minister to their specific biker community. NMF is not a ministry in and of itself to bikers, it is not a club that you join, it is a resource to help you reach the biker community in your area using the knowledge and experience of established biker ministries in Nazarene churches around the world.

UPCOMING BIKER EVENTS AND FOLLOW-UP

Be sure and let us know about your event by sending us a follow-up report. Continue to pray that God will use NMF as a tool for reaching other for Christ.

Upcoming Events

There are currently no scheduled upcoming NMF events.

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FOLLOW-UP

10th Annual James Jensen Memorial Run a Big Success

Motorcycle riders are known for their generosity and participation in fund raising events. For the past nine years, riders participating in the James Jensen Memorial Run have helped provide scholarships to students at the Theological Seminary in Quito, Ecuador. Corporate sponsorship money covered promotion of this event with T-shirts, e-newsletters, and banners. Their support means 100% of all rider donations can go directly to the scholarship fund.

From the continental breakfast at registration to the delicious dinner at the end of the ride, Indianapolis (IN) First Church of the Nazarene, Southland Community Church and OMS International in Greenwood framed this ride with love and good eats.

Riders on 22 motorcycles participated in the September 19, 2009, James Jensen Memorial Run. Donations received will permit the issuance of $3,900 in scholarships next year; $1,000 more than 2008. Thank you.

General Superintendent Jerry Porter, addressed these comments to Larry Jensen, run organizer: “What an awesome report of generosity and mission vision. You are keeping your dear father’s vision alive and it is even growing. Thanks for your desire to honor your dad’s passion with this sacrificial Kingdom investment in developing Christ-like leaders in South America.”

Mark your calendars for September 18, 2010, and join the 11th Annual Ride. It will begin at 9 AM from Indianapolis (IN) First Church. You can help fulfill the dream of education for seminary students in Quito, Ecuador.

South Charleston (WV) Grace Church of the Nazarene

On Saturday, September 20, 2009, South Charleston (WV) Grace Church of the Nazarene enjoyed what Pastor Mike McGinnis termed the best in their four years of Biker Sundays because of the following:

• Weather forecasters predicted 80 percent chance of rain and they were accurate everywhere except at the church!
• Anointed speaker, evangelist Rev. Jim Chapman (aka “Big Chap”), whom Pastor McGinnis would highly recommend, delivered a message straight from the heart of God.
• Excited participants including some from a biker church, braved the rain to travel to the only dry place in the city where “showers of blessings” flowed.
• Free barbeque, tee-shirts, and giveaways pleased the crowd, but the capstone for the experience was the ride that included a stop at a riverside baptism event!

Elon (NC), Power Line Church of the Nazarene

Although the area received almost two inches of rain, 35 bikes rolled into Power Line Nazarene in Elon, North Carolina for the eighth annual Uncaged Biker Weekend on Saturday, September 27. A dinner was enjoyed by 154 and a concert by Direct Message brought in 218 for a great evening.

Sunday dawned sunny and 110 bikes made their way to Power Line for Biker Sunday. Sam Barber, senior pastor of Shepherd Church of the Nazarene, Gahanna, Ohio, and co-founder of Uncaged Biker Ministries brought a message on Really Living. More than 20 seekers made their way to the altar Sunday morning. A special offering for the Rusty Bellomy Bikes for Missions project was received totaling $934.25.

Lunch was served by the Power House teens followed by a blessing of the Bikes by senior pastor, Dr. Timothy Taylor. The police escorted the ride through the beautiful North Carolina piedmont. The ride was followed by desserts and door prizes. Uncaged Biker Sunday an annual event the biker-friendly congregation of Power Line Church of the Nazarene offer the biker community.

 On September 12-13, 2009, Midland Valley First Church of the Nazarene held its 5th Annual Biker Sunday weekend. This has been a labor of love for the members of Driven By The Spirit Motorcycle Ministry who invited the entire biker community of the Central Savannah River area. The weekend kicked off with a free concert with recording artist Eddie B and brought in a crowd of 140 people to experience a unique blend of music, testimonies, and preaching.
 
More than 350 bikes and over 800 bikers showed up Sunday morning for what has become one of the premier biker events of the area. Bikers from all walks of life participated and it is estimated that over 40 percent of the people in attendance were unchurched. Wayne Cheselka preached to a crowd of close to 1000. Following the service, bikers were treated to a free, catered lunch and then participated in a ride that stretched for 2 ½ miles.
 
Visit www.drivenbythespirit.org for more information about Driven By The Spirit Motorcycle Ministry.

On August 21-23rd, the 9th Annual “Answer the Call” weekend, co-sponsored by C.H.R.O.M.E. Ministries, the Elgin (OR) Ministerial Association, and Elgin (OR) Harvester’s Church of the Nazarene was held.  Each year, this ministry event has been growing; individuals accept Christ, and then begin return to their hometowns and begin additional chapters of C.H.R.O.M.E. Ministries in this Northwest U.S.A. region.

Rev. Fred Laeger, pastor, Harvester’s Church, reports that a true miracle surrounded this year’s event,  For the last 3 years, C.H.R.O.M.E. Ministries members have advertised “Answer the Call” at a secular biker weekend, called the BrozenBike Run”.   Participants were invited to a free lunch and, for the last 2 years about half-dozen participated.  Feeling hopeful, Rev. Laeger’s wife purchased enough hotdogs and hamburgers this year to feed a maximum of 70 or 80.  But God planned differently, and Matthew 6:41-44 was re-created!  When the day was done, over 180 individuals—many eating two or more hamburgers and/or hotdogs—had been served….and there was food left over.  Pastor Laeger reports that not only were the people “fed”, but the group prayed with the bikers, and invited them to worship in services conducted both that evening and on Sunday.  And…many came. 

Pastor Laeger excitedly reports that he’s still receiving e-mails from those who were touched by the experience.  “They couldn’t believe that we didn’t ask for money and that we did it just because we loved them as much as Jesus loved them!  Several have already received Christ, and others returned to their communities to seek out a church that will receive them.  Praise the Lord! Others have said, ‘How do we become involved with this ministry?  It is what we’ve been looking for.’  Isn’t God awesome.”

(Editor Note:  this what NMF is all about….“Making Christlike Disciples in the Nations”) 

On August 29-30th, Southern Hills Church of the Nazarene in Louisville, KY enjoyed “Biker-Fest 2009”!  Over 400 attended the Saturday event, which included music from “2000 Sundays”, a band from Corbin, KY, games for children, adults, and lots of food for everyone.  Sunday featured a “Starting of the Bikes”, music from a combined praise team from Southern Hills Nazarene and BFC Louisville, and a sermon by Mike Duke (former member of The Outlaws).  His text was from 1 Peter, and following his remarks, 6 people stood and gave their lives to Christ.  Pastor Rick Graybill reports that 138 attended this Sunday experience.

On August 16, 2009, Columbus (OH) Shepherd Church of the Nazarene celebrated the first-ever Biker Sunday and introduced its Full Armor Biker Ministry. Rev. Sam Barber reported the standing-room only crowds of 700+ were greeted by the rumble of a motorcycle. Tim Christian, Full Armor’s president, and his bike were on the sanctuary platform which had been transformed to resemble a biker garage. The congregation gave generously to the Rusty Bellomy Bikes for Missions Project.

Rev. David Middendorf was on hand to sing, preach, and commission the Full Armor officers. After the service, bikers and congregation headed outside. Each bike was surrounded by members of the congregation as hands were laid on the rider and Rev. Middendorf led a prayer of blessing. After lunch, 37 bikers headed out on a 40-mile tour of Hoover Reservoir, a scenic location in Central Ohio.

Visit www.shepnaz.org to view Full Armor’s slate of Fall 2009 rides. Everyone is invited to join in the fun. 

On Sunday, August 16, 2009, the first-ever Biker Sunday was held at Atwood Nazarene Church in Seminole, OK. There were 67 motorcycles and 127 people present for this inaugural event and $625 was received for the Rusty Bellomy Bikes for Missions project. Many responded to Pastor Brooks’ message, “Am I My Brother’s Keeper?” Please remember these individuals as well as their outreach to bikers in your prayers.

On Sunday, August 16, 2009, Longmont (CO) Church of the Nazarene held its 2nd Biker Sunday. One person accepted Christ and others renewed their relationship with Him. Joining the regulars were a number of visitors; all enjoyed music by Ernie Couch and Revival. Pastor Roger Freels challenged the congregation and riders to be aware of the needs of people; to keep one’s spiritual gas tank on full; and to care for those people whom God has entrusted to you. A barbeque followed and the day concluded with a 2-1/2 hour ride through Estes Park and the surrounding mountain roads in beautiful, 70-degree Colorado weather! 

West Virginia North and West Virginia South districts united their efforts this year to form the West Virginia Nazarene Motorcycle Ministry Fellowship (WVNMMF). On Saturday, August 15, 2009, as a part of the combined district camp meeting, the WVNMMF organized a bike show with trophies, provided a pit-cooked chicken lunch, and organized a ride across the beautiful West Virginia hills. The event included nearly 100 bikers from across the state. As a salute to this new biker ministry, district superintendents Rev. Kevin Dennis (WVN) and Dr. Mervin Smith (WVS) and their wives donned biker apparel for the evening service. For being good sports, the couples each received a teddy bear dressed as a biker. Plans are already underway for another event on August 14, 2010.

On August 2, 2009, Amboy (WA) Nazarene Church held its 2nd annual Teddy Bear Ride. This ride supports the pregnancy care centers in Battle Ground and Vancouver, WA. Over 100 people attended with 62 bikes. The event included a barbeque, music, a blessing of the bikes, and a ride into Battle Ground to deliver over 90 teddy bears and clothing items for more than 30 newborns. The ride was a great success and was larger than last year. God is blessing this event and we pray it will continue for many years to come.

Laramie (WY) celebrated its 4th Annual Biker Sunday on July 26, 2009, and welcomed over 60 individuals and more bikes than last year. Guest speaker, Rev. David Middendorf, spoke about God’s grace and love. The Ranchers Gospel Band, a group of actual ranchers, led in praise. The afternoon included a barbeque, a blessing of the bikes, a Bug Run with prizes, and ice cream and cookies. The church is excited about the experience and is already planning for next year!

 On May 31st, Battle Creek (MI) First Church of the Nazarene had a terrific Biker Sunday with attendance pushing over 150. God blessed them with beautiful weather. After a lunch, they enjoyed music from a band, a short service, and then over 30 motorcyclists headed out for a 50-mile ride . . . with ice cream at its conclusion. Coming September 25-27, week-end biker camp out. Watch for details.

Over the weekend of May 29-31, John Day (OR) Church of the Nazarene sponsored CHROME (Christ, Healing, Renewal, Outreach, Motorcycle, Evangelism), their second annual biker event to kick off the riding season. The event was a huge success as spiritual needs were met and lives were changed with either commitments or renewals. Twenty-five riders traveled from as far away as 180 miles to enjoy the event and another CHROME event is scheduled for late August in Elgin (OR). Watch this site for details. 

On Sunday, May 17, Dayton (OH) Northridge Church of the Nazarene held its 6th Annual Blessing of the Bike Sunday. Despite rain and cool weather, 22 bikers braved the elements to enjoy the worship experience, lunch, and a 2-1/2 hour ride that concluded in Troy (OH) for ice cream. The Northridge Church reported, “Although we were saddened some riders from previous years couldn’t join us, we were encouraged and blessed by the fact they are now active and working in other churches.” 

On Saturday, May 9, Manchester (OH) Church of the Nazarene held its second annual Biker Blessing.  Following the Biker Blessing, over 50 bikers aboard 36 bikes enjoyed lunch and a 40-mile ride along the beautiful Ohio River. Pastor Tony D. Watson commended the congregation for its support for this ministry, noting that almost the entire church came out to greet the bikers as well as to help with set-up, lunch preparations, and clean-up. It was a great day for Manchester Nazarene.  

On April 18, the Rusty Bellomy Memorial Ride was held in Ashland, Kentucky. Rusty, a Mount Vernon Nazarene University trustee and his grandson, Kristopher Calloway, were killed when a vehicle driven by a drunk driver collided with the motorcycle on which they were riding. The ride was a memorial for Rusty as well as a fund-raiser for Kristopher's medical bills.

The ride left from Ashland First Church of the Nazarene, visited Yatesville Lake, and then continued through the beautiful countryside. One hundred and forty-one (141) bikes registered for the ride and over 200 people were involved! There were door prizes, food, fellowship, and God blessed the event with unbelievable weather for April! Four thousand dollars ($4000) was raised to assist the Calloway family and donations are still being received. Contributions may be mailed to BFC, PO Box 244, Ashland KY 41105.

On April 18, the Tennessee District Cross Run was held and all went well despite the threat of rain and the fact that other biker events were taking place in the area. There were 37 participants, including 20 bikers from outside the church!

April 5, 2009 - Lubbock (TX) First Church of the Nazarene was the starting point for hundreds who hit the streets on their bikes to raise awareness for Child Abuse Prevention. Blue ribbons which read, “It Shouldn’t Hurt to be a Child”, were tied to all motorcycles. A memorial service, including a candle-light vigil, was held to remember the 220 children who died last year in Texas as a result of child abuse.

Over 40 bikers met at the South Carolina District Camp in Batesburg, South Carolina, for the 3rd Annual Carolina Thunder Biker Retreat. Pastors Allen Pullen and Wayne Cheselka delivered devotions centered on the theme, “Ride Ready, Ride Steady.” Bikers had a chance to unwind and get refreshed and renewed in their spiritual lives. They rode, had a lot of fun and fellowship, ate too much, and praised and worshipped God!

Dateline: September 20, 2008. Indianapolis First Church of the Nazarene.
Motorcycle riders are known for their generosity and participation in fund-raising events. For the past eight years, riders have helped provide a $500 scholarship to one student to attend Nazarene Theological Seminary in Quito, Equator. For 2008, the challenge was to take this ride to a new level to provide more scholarships. This year’s plan included enlisting corporate sponsors, more effective use of the media, and the development of a newsletter. From the continental breakfast at registration to the delicious dinner at the end of the ride, Indianapolis First Church and Harvest Point Church at Greenwood framed this ride with love and good eats! Larry Jensen reports that, as a result, 30 riders on 23 motorcycles participated in the 2008 James Jensen Memorial Run, and donations received will permit the issuance of four $500 scholarships and one $900 scholarship for next year—six times the amount that has been typically sent to Equador!

When advised of the amount raised in this year’s results, Field Director, Dwight Rich, gratefully responded, “Thank you so much for all you are doing! You are playing an important role in helping us build God’s Kingdom here on the North Andean Field. Our graduates are the leaders of our church!”

Want to join next year’s ride? Mark your calendar for September 19, 2009, to join the 10th Annual James Jensen Memorial Run and help fulfill the dream of education for seminary students in Quito, Equator!

Driven by the Spirit, the Biker Ministry of the Midland Valley Church of the Nazarene in Clearwater, South Carolina, enjoyed a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit during its September 14 event! Over 877 individuals, over 325 bikers and 500 plus registered bikes came together for this fourth Annual Biker Sunday, luncheon, and prizes. Participation has grown each year so this year’s event utilized a local college’s gymnasium as the sanctuary! Wayne Cheselka reports, To be a part of what we just experienced, to be allowed to bask in the Lord’s presence, to see people come together as they did and then know people make life-changing decisions and commitments is unbelievable. People ask me, “Why do you guys do this?” I just look at them and smile and tell them we want to reach the unchurched and let them know that God loves them, in spite of what they may think or may have heard. We want them to know that there’s no such thing as a “normal” church person!

Despite Satan trying to disrupt the Biker Sunday of Kankakee, Illinois First Nazarene on September 14, a great Biker Sunday was experienced! Torrential rains from Hurricane Ike flooded the area with 8.5 inches of rain throughout the weekend making biker transportation a little difficult; a few hardy folk still came on motorcycles, but many chose to arrive in a “cage”, i.e. a car! On the way to the event, the vehicle of guest speaker Robert Pickle was totaled when a drunk driver hit him! So, instead of speaking, Pickle witnessed to the drunk driver in the Emergency Room while Pastor Ed Heck delivered the message to the 825 who’d braved the pouring rain! Food and fellowship followed the service!

On August 17th, Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene in Frankfort, KY, hosted a "Biker Sunday", and the church's attendance almost doubled! It all began with breakfast, and then a worship service led by David Middendorf. Speaking on "unconditional love and grace", the open altar was lined with folks of all ages seeking God to do something for them! As the service concluded with David singing "It Is Well With My Soul", the presence of the Holy Spirit was so evident! A picnic, a ride through the Central Kentucky horse farm country, and a dessert contest completed the Sunday experience! Summarizing the event, Pastor Howard Wilson remarked, "What a great day of excitement and energy in our church! God's spirit was there for spiritual healing and Christian fellowship. It was incredible to watch God at work!"

On Sunday, August 3rd, Amboy, Washington Church of the Nazarene held it’s first-ever “Teddy Bear Run for the Unborn Child” with great success! Over 90 participated in the event, including individuals on 54 bikes! (This event was specifically planned as an afternoon event to help the ‘unborn” with the hope of attracting many participants who are not church-affiliated. God blessed this strategy!) The teddy bears will be utilized by pregnancy care centers in the cities of Battle Ground, Woodland, and Vancouver and the center workers cried and thanked everyone for their support of the project! Following the run, it was back to church for an afternoon of music, a barbeque, and a “Blessing of the Bikes”. Donated money from the barbeque went to support the local food bank, which is also run by Amboy Nazarene, so there was a “double blessing!” Plans are already underway for an August, 2009, event; watch for details!