ABATE stands for A Brotherhood Against Totalitarian Enactments, an organization representing bikers throughout the state of Maryland. With chapters in every county, the all-volunteer group considers itself to be a grass-roots lobbying organization, fighting for “fair and responsible legislation.”

On April 22 Senator Roy Dyson, Delegates John Bohanan, Johnny Wood, Tony O’Donnell, and Sue Kullen along with County Commissioner President Jackie Russell, and Commissioners Larry Jarboe and Kenney Dement were among the special guests joining the St. Mary’s Chapter of ABATE of Maryland for the 12th Annual Belssing of the Bikes.

John Robinson, the St. Mary’s Chapter director opened the ceremony and introduced chapter officers and guests. Father Bob Kotsy led the invocation and the blessing.

For the special occassion music was provided by Adinha and the Bad Dogs, and Terri Palmer sang the national anthem and Amazing Grace.

The prayer for the Bikes and Riders follows below, along with photographs from the service.

 

Prayer for the Bikes and Riders

Lord, We lift our hearts to you this day that you may bless us with you love and spirit.  Guide us through our journeys both short and long. 

Grant us the wisdom to enjoy the ride and be on the look out for what lies ahead of our path and to never take the road for granted

Remind us Lord, that the machines we ride are only as good as the maintenance that we provide.  Just as our faith is only as good as the maintenance of carrying you in our hearts.  Without proper maintenance of both machine and rider we are lost.

Dear Lord, by wearing these pins let us be able to spread your word to others when they ask about it.  Let our voices ring out that we ride with your blessing. 

Most of all Lord, we come today as one voice reaching out to you in song and prayer that you will guide us on our Journey and that when we meet each other on the road we will show our respect for each other.  When one of us is down  Lord, may you send others to lift us up with a helping hand.   For Lord we are a family no matter what colors we wear we all have the same need for the freedom we feel when we ride. 

Bless all the riders and their rides Dear Lord for we are your children.  In The name of the Father, Son and Holy Sprit we pray.

AMEN