Greek Orthodox Church holds 4th
Annual Blessing Service for Motorcycle Riding Season
Greek American Motorcycle Association (GAMA) Gather for
Blessing and Fundraiser Ride for Scholarship Program
HOMER GLEN, IL: The Greek American Motorcycle Association (GAMA) and the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago held their 4th Annual Motorcycle Blessing Service today in the cold drizzle at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church located at 15625 South Bell Road in Homer Glen. Yet despite the near freezing wet weather, the annual event gathered over 35 motorcyclist and 25 of their motorcycles. The service was officiated by Bishop Demetrios of Mokissos, Chancellor of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago, and begin following Sunday services.
Assumption Pastor, Rev. Sotirios (Sam) Dimitriou noted, “What better way to kick off the summer riding season than to have His Grace, Bishop Demetrios, bless all the riders along with their motorcycles, by saying a prayer for their safety. I’d like to think the riders will listen closely to the prayers for a safe riding season.”
“GAMA’s annual motorcycle blessing is a wonderful way for our members and our fellow Chicagoland supporters in the motorcycle community to start each riding season with a Holy Blessing,” said GAMA President John Corasis. “It’s truly a spiritual feeling that gives you a sense of confidence riding your motorcycle throughout the riding season.”
“This is a wonderful and spiritual experience where Bishop Demetrios along with Fr. Sam Dimitriou bless the riders (along with their motorcycles) and wish them a safe riding season” said Nikos Karavitis, GAMA Media and Public Relations Officer. “It’s refreshing to see how the church continues to reach out and embrace motorcycle enthusiasts and how this blessing continues to grow every year.”
This 4th Annual event is also a fundraiser ride for the GAMA Scholarship Program. The fundraiser ride begin immediately following the Blessing Service and finished at The Black Sheep in Orland Hills, raising$1940.00 this year.
GAMA is proud to offer four (4) scholarships to attend the Greek Orthodox Fanari Summer Camp, which is held at the St. Iakovos Retreat Center in Southern Wisconsin. To apply for the $500 scholarships, students must submit an application by May 31, 2016. Every applicant is required to submit a short essay which will help the selection committee to understand their motivations and desires to attend Fanari Camp. Winners will be selected by June 4, 2016. The scholarships include transportation, room and board and activity fees at Fanari Camp. The application that could be found on the GAMA web site: www.GreekAmericanMA.com.
