Carolina Bellocq
These were the sights and sounds that welcomed the faithful for Mass at the church by the lake in Castel Gandolfo. This was no ordinary Sunday celebration. It was the annual gathering of the motorcycle ministry, led by Father Tadeusz Rozmus, also known as Don Biker.
DANILO MALTONI, Organizing Committee:
This Mass began several years ago. Basically, Don Biker, who is the parish priest here in Castel Gandolfo, and also a motorcyclist, created this event, with a special Mass for bikers, for all motorcyclists. There’s a blessing, where both the helmets and the motorcycles are blessed, as well as a prayer for motorcyclists. It’s an event that’s been held for years now.
About 100 motorcyclists attended that morning. Some belonged to organized groups, while others came with their families or on their own. They all shared one thing: a passion for engines and two wheels.
ARIANNA CARACI, Motorcyclist:
For me, the motorcycle represents a new life, a strength I didn’t think I had, the ability to control and manage your own character, your passion, and even channel your energy. A faith that, every time you get on the motorcycle, definitely stays with you.
I found two passions in one. These two passions basically come together, and that’s why it’s beautiful, because you feel at peace. And serenity, I think, as we all know, is priceless, and it’s a great achievement.
And while most of those attending were Catholic, not everyone was part of the Church. Like this man, who is Buddhist but still wanted to take part.
MAURO TRAINI, Participant:
And they told us about this. Besides, it’s something quite special and unique, so it’s good to be here.
Or like this woman, who took part with other members of her group.
DONATELLA CIPOLLA, Motorcyclist:
With several other female motorcyclists, it’s really exciting and very encouraging, as always. This is the fourth edition we’ve taken part in, and I’m sure it will be like the others, so we’ll go home really excited.
Believers or not, everyone followed the Mass, concelebrated by the parish priest and Father Donato, another priest who is also getting into motorcycling.
During the Prayers of the Faithful, they offered special prayers for those who ride, for those waiting for them at home, and for those who have lost their lives in accidents.
And then came the most anticipated moment: the blessing of the helmets and motorcycles.
After Mass, the bikers wanted to meet the pope, so they rode together in a procession led by the parish priest and followed by police officers.
Once they reached the town square, they joined the Angelus and received a greeting from Pope Leo.
POPE LEO
And to the motorcyclists here for their traditional annual gathering.
Finally, they returned to the parish to share a meal. Because, as Don Biker says, a motorcycle is much more than a vehicle.
FR. TADEUSZ ROZMUS, Parish Priest of Castel Gandolfo:
The motorcycle is an opportunity to come together, regardless of our beliefs, convictions, or ways of seeing life, because a motorcycle builds a bridge between people.
