Right up our alley......

Blessing of the Bikes – April 11th  9:30 AM

The South Shore will see a cycling event unlike anything offered in the past.  St. Andrew's Church in Hanover will hold a brief, non-denominational service, the Blessing of the Bikes.  People of all ages are encouraged to attend. Pembroke resident, Bill Sprows, has gained the enthusiastic cooperation of the Rev. Beth Wheatley-Dyson, in presiding over and hosting this event.  St. Andrew's Rev. Beth encourages and practices outreach to the local communities and she views this as another exciting opportunity to practice that.

The idea for this, Sprows relates, is based on a similar event in that is now in New York City, now in it's 11th year.  While online investigating the Five Boro Bike Tour in New York, he clicked on a few links and found himself at the Blessing of the Bikes website in New York.  It interested him because, similar to 'The Blessing of the Fleet' ceremonies in New Bedford and Gloucester, it welcomes the beginning of spring by seeking to ensure a safe season.

In March, two cyclists were injured by a hit and run drunk driver in Cohasset.  One of the victims had to be hospitalized.  Bicycle injuries are common and not all related to auto accidents.  Sometimes it's just a pot hole or a split-second of distraction.  Sprows himself has sustained several injuries on his bike, usually during charity rides.  Had it not been for his helmet, the outcome of his injuries could have been much worse.  A blessing for the wisdom to be careful and alert is just as important as the bikes.

The Blessing of the Bikes will start promptly at 9:30 AM on Saturday, April 11th.  If you're late, you'll miss it.  Cyclists should arrive with their bikes and in their normal cycling attire including helmet. (Tricycles, Skates and non-motorized scooters are also welcome)  A remembrance of cyclists injured or killed, a quick announcement and the cyclists will be off on their respective rides.  Cycling clubs are encouraged to make this a stop on their normal Saturday morning routine.  A free-will offering, to St. Andrew's Outreach Program will be made by passing a helmet.

The Blessing of the Bikes promises to be an annual beginning-of-the-cycling-season event.  Regardless of your religious beliefs you are welcome. This type of event has been going on in NYC for quite a while, and they've never heard from anyone that the event made them uncomfortable. In other words, you will be blessed and welcomed; you will not be lectured.


For information, cyclists can email Bill Sprows at bsprows@yahoo.com or check St. Andrew's online at www.standrewshanover.org for directions.