Carolina Faith Riders’ “Mission Under the Tent” stretched to a wider circle this year during Myrtle Beach Bike Week, May 15-21.
The Chick-fil-A cow helped Faith Riders invite people to enjoy a free meal in Conway.CFR partnered with Waccamaw Association to minister not only to the spiritual needs of visiting motorcyclists, but also to other people in Horry County. Rick Astle, director of missions for Waccamaw Association, put together some out-of-the-box ministry opportunities for the motorcycle outreach group.
CFR volunteers would normally spend the whole week ministering to people at the Bass Pro Shop parking lot, where riders pull in to check out the vendors and purchase motorcycle equipment and apparel. Due to low turnout in previous years, CFR members decided to reach out in other areas, as well, participating in lifeguard, restaurant and roadside prayer ministries.
The Chick-fil-A cow took a seat on state coordinator Dwight Mobley’s Yamaha motorcycle and encouraged people to come into the Conway Chick-fil-A restaurant to enjoy a meal courtesy of CFR, Waccamaw Association and the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Members shared the gospel with many who came in. Some diners asked the group to pray for their needs, and one accepted Christ, CFR chaplain Gary Hanna said.
CFR members also went to the Travelers Chapel on Highway 501 between Conway and Myrtle Beach and, over two days, spent four hours praying for people as they drove past. A local television station covered the event. CFR member Greg Hanna, a member of Elko Church, said, “We are all called to spread God’s word. We are here to tell people what Jesus can do for them.”
CFR members prayed for the occupants of more than 5,000 cars, trucks and buses. Passing motorists blew their horns and waved, and some gave a thumbs-up sign. Later, at a chance encounter at a restaurant, a woman told CFR members it was a blessing to have seen someone who cared enough for her to stand on the side of the road and pray for her.
CFR members also ministered to lifeguards by passing out water, sunscreen and an invitation to a free meal sponsored by Waccamaw Association.
The traditional Mission Under the Tent at the Bass Pro Shop was also successful, said Gary Hanna. Many came to the tent and saw a hearse carrying a casket draped with the American flag. It was the idea of Bob Bowman of Florence. In front of the hearse was a sign reading: “Last Ride to Eternity. Do You Know Your Final Destination?” “Smiling Joe” and Jennifer were “two of many who came to know Christ through this experience,” Hanna said.
CFR members also ministered and witnessed to motorcycle vendors. One of them, Jennifer, gave her life to Christ, Hanna said. “Many vendors who are Christians and are not home often said it was an encouragement to them when CFR members prayed for them daily,” he added.
Carolina Faith Riders is an auxiliary to the South Carolina Baptist Convention. Those interested in starting a chapter in their church should visit www.scfaithriders.org.
Volunteers from Carolina Faith Riders ministered beyond the normal reach of their “Mission Under the Tent” for this year’s Bike Week at Myrtle Beach.