Bikers share Christian message with local children

The Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) made a presentation to the children of Awana at Evangelical Free Church, Wedneday.

The CMA members rode motorcycles into the sanctuary of the church, and then took to the stage. Front and center of the stage was Brent Jeffers with a “dummy” named Chopper on his knee. The dialogue between Chopper and Jeffers began with questions about what Christians look like, and Reverend Mark Zalesky joined in. the moral of their conversation was to not judge people by outward appearances.

The dialogue continued about Easter and its true meaning, and how Jesus died for our sins.

Chopper explained what the patches on the CMA member’s vests mean. Then Chopper asked the members of the CMA to explain what they do.

Patty Jeffers explained that the CMA tells other people about Jesus and they help others and try to bring people to Christ.

Zalesky said that the CMA sometimes goes to “not so nice places” to tell people about Jesus. The CMA goes to the sick, and raises money through bake sales in addition to their annual motorcycle ride “Run for the Son” each May to help those in need. And, he added, the CMA also has a film that they show to people about Jesus.

Jeffers added that the CMA raises money for people in countries where they aren’t allowed to have bibles, and they also raise money to go toward purchase of vehicles for pastors who would otherwise have to walk to their church. These vehicles may be a bicycle, motorcycle or even a horse.

After the presentation, Jeffers answered the children’s questions and then the CMA members gave the children message bracelets.

Awana teaches boys and girls about God, the Bible and other life-enriching lessons.

Awana is a community outreach program for children in all 50 states and in more than 100 countries around the world. The organization has existed for more than 60 years, and in Sidney it has been around for 20 years. The local Awana meets at Evangelical Free Church every Wednesday evening throughout the school year with an average attendance of 125 children from all denominational backgrounds. The meetings last for 90 minutes, with 30 minutes each devoted to handbook, council and gym/games.

Awana is made up of three groups: The Cubbies are Preschool children; the Sparks are children in Kindergarten through grade 2; the Truth and Training is the group with grades 3 through 6.

Awana stands for “Approved workmen are not ashamed,” taken from 2 Timothy 2:15.