Methodist Church Reaches Out With A Blessing Of The Bikes

Reaching out to those who are not commonly found sitting within a church sanctuary is part of Newtown United Methodist Church’s Anglican heritage. And last Saturday, it continued this mission by inviting motorcyclists to the fifth annual Blessing of the Bikers.

Over the years the event has evolved to include those on bicycles as well as motorcycles, but the motorized vehicles dominated the scene behind the church. Tom Dellamarggio, 74, of Fairfield, came with the oldest bike of the day, a 1962 BSA Goldstar. Francis Tuoti of North Salem, who rode a 1988 Harley Softail, was the oldest rider, admitting he had been riding for 56 years.

More than 70 riders enjoyed a breakfast prepared by the church members and were blessed by the Rev Mary Patterson of Bethel. Norman Lajoie of Naugatuck, who has been riding for 24 years, travelled the farthest distance on a ’95 Superglide to attend the event.

Adella May Carlson, 21/2 , of Woodbury, riding a Radio Flyer tricycle, was the youngest rider. 

The event is organized each year by church members Marty Maciag and Alice Saxton, both of whom are riders.  Mrs Saxton is a member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, many of whom attended.