Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1313542
Ministry Without A HOG Chapter Marty Edwards "What do we do now that our HOG chapter (or Harley Dealership) has closed?" This is a question that our national office has heard several times in the last few months. The answer is, "Ministry Goes On!" It's important to remember that our focus has NEVER been to spend all of our time and resources with Harley Owners Group. Our bylaws and mentorship program have always touted that 50% of our time be spent with HOG or IRG (Indian Riders Group), or a similar rider's group. We have then stated that 40% of our time could (and maybe really should ) be spent with other motorcycle groups which may include ABATE, Patriot Guard or even visit a "club" event. 10% of our suggested ministry focus has been given to any number of non- motorcycle related opportunities i.e. children's events, homeless ministry, rehab support, the local church or wherever the Spirit leads – so ministry outside of your local riding group should not be such a new idea. Consider attending a swap meet where many bikers go for parts. Our Orange County (CA) chapter has done this every month for years, with great results, to meet and pray for bikers. What about joining the Patriot Guard and assisting with funerals and memorial services for our veterans? You might even consider adopting a children's home or a rehabilitation house or offering your support of local churches. With great caution (and probably for the guys only), a Black Sheep chapter could look for occasional opportunities to attend local "club" fundraisers. There's nothing wrong with buying a hamburger and a few 50/50 tickets just to show your respect, and it may be worth something the next time a club member is in the hospital. Who else are they going to call but motorcycle riding Christians who have shown them some love? Even if your local HOG chapter has closed, the dealership may still be open and the employees there are just as important as HOG members. My chapter (Temecula Valley) spends fifty dollars a month on snacks for the employees of Temecula Harley-Davidson. They have arranged with the dealership to bring in individual servings of cheese and crackers, beef jerky, protein bars, packaged cookies, dried fruit, Slim Jims, chips and more. And what about that HOG chapter that's too far away for the Black Sheep to join or ride with regularly? Maybe your chapter could make it a point to join one of their rides or events even if it's just twice a year? I will guarantee you that even if there is no dealership or riding group in town, there are still riders! This is where the monthly Black Sheep breakfast could really shine! Imagine ten or twenty motorcycle riders in town who could look forward to a breakfast each month, complete with a little rock'n roll, some door prizes and a nice 50-100 mile ride after breakfast! Who cares what they ride? If you don't have access to our primary target ...IMPROVISE! Who was it that said, "Blessed are the flexible?" One of my early mentors said, "Failed plans [or opportunities?] should not be interpreted as a failed vision. Visions don't change, they are only refined. Plans rarely stay the same, and are scrapped or adjusted as needed. Be stubborn about the vision, but flexible with your plan." (John Maxwell) Look around! If we are creative, there is no lack of opportunities to love on people in the name of Jesus! Chapters suddenly finding themselves without a local HOG chapter need to be brainstorming where they can invest their time and resources. In the end, it's all about ministry! It's all about sharing the love of Jesus! The ministry goes on no matter what the circumstances! a