Prayers are offered to the many people who make a pilgrimage to Our Lady of La Salette Shrine in Attleboro. Some come via bus or by car and others walk. On Saturday morning, however, more than 100 people made pilgrimage to the Shrine, but they came on motorcycles.

Hundreds attended the Shrine's 3rd annual "Blessing of the Bikes."

The day began with the registration of 170 bikers who then got on their ride and headed out on a four-town ride. 

The bikers, some of which were from Attleboro and others who traveled from as far as New Hampshire, rode as singles, couples and entire families. In fact, even a dog came along for the ride. They arrived back at the grounds of La Salette for the drive-through blessing, which was conducted by Brother Ronald Taylor and Father Greg Viens. Greg Russo of the Christian Motorcyclist Associations and Don Grassey and Jay Lawrence of the Loyal Sons also offered private blessing to those who desired it.

Once their bikes were blessed, the bikers gathered for music by Widow McDaniels Band, food and to chat it up with motorcycle-related vendors.

In its first year, the Blessing of the Bikes was sponsored by the Attleboro Area Council of Churches and coordinated by Pam Bliss. There were 25 bikes to bless.

Not long after the first, annual  event, Bliss started her own organization "On Common Ground" to continue working in people in the community to provide one on one mentoring. On Common Ground now sponsors the Blessing of the Bikes.

The organization's mission  is to improve the lives of individuals who are experiencing economic, social and/or familial poverty in the Attleboro area by encouraging the involvement of the local community in one-on-one relationships. 

On Common Ground holds the event each year as a way to tap into the "wonderful community of generous folks who come out to help so many people through their love of riding," according to Bliss.

By collaborating with the Shrine, On Common Ground is able to provide an opportunity to bless the bikes and their riders for a safe riding season.  The event is always held the weekend after Mother's Day to stay as close to the blesed mother having her hand over the biker (s) in prayer.

"We were so happy to see the number of riders that showed up this year as the weather was questionable, so we thank them for their commitment and generosity to this effort on behalf of those in need," Bliss said. "We were at almost the same number of participants as last year, which may increase next year if the weather is more cooperative.  But for now, we are very thankful to have had such a nice day!"

While there was no fee for the blessing, some bikers purchased candles and calendars as a way to support On Common Ground. The money will help pay for the organization's office space and small staff.

 Bliss's organization will also be sponsoring a folk festival in August.