Blessing of Bicycles
A reading from the prophet Ezekiel:
When the living creatures moved, the wheels moved beside them; and when the living creatures rose from the earth, the wheels rose. Wherever the spirit would go, they went, and the wheels rose along with them; for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels. When they moved, the others moved; when they stopped, the others stopped; and when they rose from the earth, the wheels rose along with them; for the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels. (Ezek. 1:19-21)
Holy wisdom, holy word.
Thanks be to God.
Let us pray.
Present in a world groaning under the excesses of consumption, we acknowledge the inherent goodness of nonmotorized, human-powered transportation and give thanks for the simple beauty of the bicycle. God of life,
hear our prayer.
Present in a community filled with children, we pray for those learning to ride. Keep them smart, safe, and visible on their neighborhood roads. God of life,
hear our prayer.
Present in a community filled with strife, we pray for the victims of road rage and bike theft. We ask for the strength to forgive people who behave in unkind ways. God of life,
hear our prayer.
Present in a world of work, we pray for those who build, repair, and clean our bikes and those who rely on bicycles to earn their living. Bless those who choose not to drive to work and those for whom driving isn’t even an option. God of life,
hear our prayer.
Present in a community of beautiful diversity, we ask your protection and blessing on all who ride: recreational riders, athletes, homeless folks, students, children, eco-warriors, bike messengers, and all the others who take to the streets, bike paths, parks, and mountains. Keep us safe as we ride. God of life,
hear our prayer.
Let us remember all those who have died while riding (especially).
A brief silence.
God of life,
Hear our prayer.
May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be ever at your back.
May all your journeying be joyous.
And until we meet again, may God hold you
and your bicycles in the palm of God’s hand.
Go in peace and safety.
Amen.