pope blesses harleys, Riders At Event

Harley-Davidsons Bikes and Riders Blessed by Pope

Thousands of motorcycle riders and their Harley-Davidson bikes were blessed by Pope Francis over the weekend as the internationally renowned motorcycle brand observed its 110th anniversary with a parade through the streets of Rome.

The bikers were all assembled in Vatican City when they were greeted by the Pope who delayed the start of his Sunday Mass service in order to bless the motorcyclists and their vehicles in addition to pray the Lord’s Prayer with them. St. Peter’s Square became a bike parking lot as the Pope, who was travelling in a jeep convertible, made his way among the thousands of parade participants in order to offer his blessings.

It was estimated that as many as half a million motorcyclists participated in the Roman holiday to celebrate Harley’s 110th birthday.

The company, which is based in Wisconsin, also presented Pope Francis with two white Harley vehicles that will be placed into service with the Vatican’s official police force. Many of the bikers remained in St. Peter’s Square, along with hundreds of priests, nuns and locals, for the Mass service which was part of another rally taking place in the Square to support anti-abortion causes.

Many bikers said that the blessing at the Vatican was a highlight of their two-day celebration.

On The Web:

Pope blesses hundreds of Harley Davidsons
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/06/16/pope-blesses-harley-davidsons/2427847/