Bikers bring something different to Farley block party

A horde of leather-clad bikers invaded Madison County’s Farley community Nov. 10. Sporting leather driving gloves, sunglasses and bandannas around their heads, the bikers paraded through the streets roaring their engines and frightening some.
   
But these bikers came with a message of hope. These bikers make up the Huntsville chapter of Christian Motorcyclists Association.
   
They came to Farley to participate in a Nov. 11 Crossover Huntsville event.
   
A block party at Farley Elementary School — co-sponsored by Farley Community Church, Morningside Baptist Church and Abundant Life Church, all from the Huntsville area — attracted about 600 people.
   
The bikers were there in full force, serving hot dogs and hamburgers and showing off their Harley Davidsons.
   
Christians of different denominations and various ethnic heritages mingled with each other as they were entertained by praise and worship singing, puppets and spiritual dramas.
   
Trained evangelistic team members stood ready to assist new converts as life-changing decisions were made.
   
Coordinating the effort was David Blakeney, pastor of Farley Community Church, a member of Madison Baptist Association.
   
“A letter was sent out from our area Baptist churches to all denominations inviting them to participate,” said Blakeney.
   
He said he was overwhelmed by the willingness and support of neighboring churches that immediately warmed to the Crossover idea and eagerly attended the training for the event and participated in prayer walks for spiritual preparedness.
   
One church that eagerly embraced the Crossover concept was Abundant Life Fellowship whose pastor, Lee Adams, is a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association.
   
“We had an incredible response to our parade,” Adams said. “No matter what your denomination is, we all have the common vision of building God’s kingdom.
   
“This experience has been a good thing for our community.” he added. “We’ve been treated really good by the Baptists. I commend them for letting everyone join in this effort.”
   
According to John Long, director of missions for Madison Association, the emphasis on multidenominational evangelism resulted in all six of Madison County’s Korean churches (three of which are Baptist) visiting all 2,000 homes of Koreans living in the area.