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Earlier this month, I had intended to do some bike riding when an old army colleague mentioned that his motorcycle ministry group was heading to Leesburg, Fla., for the 2025 Leesburg Bikefest. This piqued my interest, and he extended an invitation to join them on their ride.
The plan involved the ministry members riding from Inverness, stopping at Gator Harley Davidson in east Leesburg, and following a Sunday service led by a biker chaplain before cruising into town to enjoy the second half of the “Bikefest” experience.
I shared with my friend, Mr. Dennis Mills, that I no longer owned a Harley, having sold it after my wife suffered a burn on her leg from an exhaust pipe. I now ride a Suzuki “AN 650” (Burgman) scooter instead.
He shared some essential details about the day’s events. The ministry group, known as “Servants of Christ,” originated in Derby, Connecticut, and consisted of devoted, humble individuals. He also mentioned that their ministry included various brands of motorcycles, not just Harleys.
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It’s worth noting that they prefer to be called a Christian Motorcycle Ministry rather than a club. Additionally, since I would miss attending church with my family, there would be a preacher speaking under a large pavilion at the Harley dealership.
We discussed meeting at the Harley grounds, and just as I was exiting I-75 at the Wildwood exit, I spotted his group passing by. I knew then that it was going to be a fantastic day!
This was my first time riding with a group of bikers without feeling judged for not having the “right” bike. We arrived at Gator HD’s parking lot around 9:15. As the event was just kicking off, we were among the first 100 bikes parked—what a nice start!
Aside from the numerous Harleys already parked, I noticed a variety of other brands as well. This was reassuring; many riders might feel intimidated about bringing an off-brand bike to a large gathering like this or Daytona Bike Week. Now, they could feel at home and enjoy the event comfortably.
Times have shifted, and in my view, the demographics of the riders attending the Leesburg Bikefest have also transformed. I was surprised to encounter so many veterans at the initial venue. We met several ex-paratroopers, including one who had worked at the same heavy parachute facility at Fort Bragg, N.C., just two years after I had served there—he likely operated the same rugged forklifts I spent countless hours on!
The Servants of Christ group displayed their “colors”—indicated by patches on their vests, which were quite impressive. After listening to the preacher, browsing sales booths, and sampling delicious food, we returned to the rows of parked bikes, mounted up, and proceeded to our next destination.
Upon parking at our second location, we convened for their official monthly meeting beneath a large oak tree, just north of the main attraction. Here, I truly began to appreciate the members of their group. They commenced the meeting with a prayer and passed around a hat for donations to support one of the charities they sponsor. It wasn’t long before I decided to share their story in the paper and join their ranks.
In conclusion, I never anticipated wanting to join a motorcycle club, yet life has a way of bringing forth unexpected opportunities. Reflecting on past experiences reminds me of the adage: “NEVER SAY NEVER!”
I hope you all have a blessed week until we meet again!
