Cycles for Christ plan 100 mile ride

The Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA) has 80,000 members nationwide. Bob Ishkanian, New York State Coordinator for CMA, explains what CMA is and is not. "CMA encourages all members, whether or not they are a part of a chapter, to attend a Bible-believing church on a regular basis. CMA members should support their church and its pastor prayerfully and with their talents, time and treasure, making their financial support to the church a higher priority than giving to CMA. CMA is not a church and is not to be your church. It is a ministry."

The Rochester area chapter of CMA has a tag, "Cycles for Christ" with about 50 members. Chapter president is Lynn Gursslin of Spencerport.

The chapter also maintains and publishes an annual New York State Motorcycle Events Calendar. The 2003 issue lists 186 events backed by both Christian and secular cycle groups. It is a mix of runs, swap meets, rallies and shows, many of which contribute to some worthy cause such as the Open Door Mission, juvenile diabetes, mercy flights, hospices, cancer research and other groups and needs.

Twenty-two members of Cycles for Christ recently completed the 5th Annual Open Door Run in support of the Open Door Mission on Plymouth Avenue, Rochester. In past years, 100 or more cycles have turned out and contributed at least $1,500 to the mission each year. This year, other scheduled events pulled bikers away.

According to Ronald Fox of the Open Door Mission, "Maybe this year was a bit less but every little bit helps. It's over and above our regular budget."

A future event to be supported by Cycles for Christ is the 17th annual Run for the Son in May 2004, a 100-mile ride taking place across the United States and Canada. Money raised will be used to support various missionary efforts.

Bikers interested in joining CMA may speak to one of the following officers of Cycles for Christ: President Lynn Gursslin, 27 Ronald Circle, Spencerport, NY 352-0578; VP Mike Schelkun, 278 Shorecliff Drive, Rochester, NY 14612, 663-1237; Secretary Debbie Peters, 62 Pease Road, Spencerport, NY 14559, 352-9404; Treasurer Lois Gursslin, 27 Ronald Circle, Spencerport, NY 14459, 352-0578.