Christian motorcyclists to gather in Carson City

By Rhonda Costa-Landers

Appeal Staff Writer

The purpose and ideals of the Christian Motorcyclists Association are quite different from other motorcycle gatherings. The members congregate to encourage, enlighten and energize each other for each season of serving as volunteers. Yes, volunteers.

CMA touts itself as an evangelistic outreach group primarily, but not exclusively, to the motorcycling community. Members are given ministry training that aligns itself with Biblical truths and takes a servant's attitude to the world.

On April 4-5, CMA will hold "Seasons of Refreshing," which is an enriching time of learning and fellowship for its members of the Northern California and northwestern Nevada region, and those who simply want to know more about the group. It will be at First Presbyterian Church's Family Life Center, 306 W. Musser St.

CMA National Evangelists Joe and Judy Maxwell will be guests, along with state and chapter leaders.

Leading the group locally are Brad and Beverly Hall of Carson City, who have been involved with CMA since 2002. The local chapter is called "Sierra Shepherds."

"After we looked them up on the Internet, we thought, Christian bikers who do things with a purpose. We could really get into this," Brad Hall said.

Brad is active with the mechanical ministry - where he uses his mechanical abilities to meet the needs of others. Beverly is involved with the women's ministry.

"After two years, we became area reps," Brad said. "There are an estimated 120 members from Bishop to Susanville, Calif., to Round Mountain in Nevada. There are three chapters in the area - Carson Valley, Dayton and Fallon.

"These are truly people who have a heart for the Lord."

The CMA is expanding its presence to be at nearly every major motorcycle event in the United States, and some internationally, including family activities with quads, BMX and other sport bike events.

"We are also involved with the prison ministry system," he added.

"We go to events to serve or volunteer," Beverly said. "Any way we can help. We do silent evangelism. We are there to plant the seeds and harvest them."

Brad said one reason they got involved with CMA is the accountability factor.

"They have their own charity, Run for the Son and the Jesus Film Project," he said. "It's an organization that doesn't spend its money foolishly."

The Halls said the group's doors are open to anyone who wants to hang out. One doesn't have to own or ride a motorcycle to hang out.

"You simply follow Jesus around a while and He starts to rub off," Brad said.

"We went to a lot of events last year and it can be stressful, wreak havoc on a person. 'Seasons of Refreshing' is a way to refresh the members, inform them of what they've done and keep them spirited."

"And it's a kick start for the new riding season," Beverly said. "For people who attend, it's an easy way for them to see what's new."

Hall said he recently received a call from the local HOG chapter to hold a blessing of the bikes for them.

"We'll be doing that Saturday morning for them," he said. "Anyone can bring their bike to be blessed.

"If you're not a member, you're a guest and it's free. To attend - to cover expenses - it's $10 for singles, $15 per couple and $5 for youth ages 5-17. We also offer a youth ministry.

"With the CMA, we're here to help others in a nonfrightening manner."

The CMA was founded 33 years ago. The Web site is www.cmausa.org.

"This has been one of the best things in my life," Brad said. "Serving those who serve others and Christ."

• Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.

If you go

WHO: Christian Motorcyclists Association

WHAT: Seasons of Refreshing

WHEN: 4 p.m. registration Friday; praise and worship 7 p.m. Saturday registration 8 a.m.; praise and worship 9 a.m.; officers meeting 5-6 p.m.

WHERE: First Presbyterian Church Family Life Center, 306 W. Musser St.

COST: $10 per adult; $15 per couple; $5 children 4-17

ON THE NET: www.cmausa.org

CALL: Brad Hall, 722-6112