Bikers stage annual Mid Antrim 150 service

The congregation was welcomed by Mr John Swann, the Rector’s Churchwarden, who later in the service read The Holy Gospel.

Before the service started, the congregation stood in silent tribute in memory of relatives of club members who had died since the last service.

The service was then conducted by Rev Dr Robert Coulter MBE, the chaplain to the Mid-Antrim Motor Cycle Club and a keen biking enthusiast for many years.

The warm weather outside was reflected by the hearty singing inside where among the hymns sung by the large congregation were: Now Thank We All Our God; the 23rd Psalm; Lead Us Heavenly Father Lead Us, and Abide With Me.

The two Scripture readings were taken by Mr Jack Agnew, the Clerk of the Mid Antrim 150 course (1st Kings Chapter 8), and Mr Paul Cranston (Philippians Chapter 3) and the service offering went towards the St James Church Restoration Fund.

Prayers were said for those mourning the loss of a loved one, for those injured in sporting accidents, for others in need, for the enjoyment of sport, and for the healing of those who have been injured at sport.

In his sermon, Rev Dr Coulter talked about the excitement a biker felt when they took charge of a new motorcycle and the importance of using the maker’s manual.

His Scripture texts were Amos Chapt 4, verse 12; 1st Samuel Chpt 7, verse 5; St John Chpt 14, and St John Chpt 3, verse 16.

“The use of the maker’s manual is absolutely important. God is our maker and He has given us a book of instructions – the Bible,” he said.

“If that manual is neglected, then we make mistakes. When we have the Bible, then we understand the meaning of having the book of instructions with us.

“The Biblical book of Isaiah in the Old Testament tells us that we all like sheep have gone astray. When we make mistakes, we realise the foolishness of our living.

“Think, too, of the pleasure which biking enthusiasts can gain from restoring an old bike. If we read St John Chpt 3 verse 16, we can see about how many times God thinks about restoring someone.

“There is pleasure in heaven over one sinner who repents. Whatever constrictions we are in, God can restore us through salvation. He gives to us a life which is worth living and a hope for all eternity.

“How much importance do you give to the Bible, God’s Maker’s Manual? The next time you take out your bike, think of the Maker’s Manual,” he said.