NC bikers find Cumberland County worship place

VANDER, N.C. (AP) On Sunday, the sanctuary at Freedom Biker Church was a sea of black leather and beards.

Motorcyclists, some of whom braved morning snow flurries, settled into their seats for the morning service.

"I ride for Jesus," read a patch on one member's jacket. "Black leather, tattoos, jeans - proper Sunday attire," read another.

When Forever Comes, a Christian rock band, struck up a number as the lyrics of the song flashed on a screen behind the band.

Then, Associate Pastor Bill Johnson took the stage. Johnson, who is tall, bald and wears a long, braided beard, welcomed the congregation.

"How are you all doing this morning?" Johnson asked. "Welcome to Freedom!"

So began another Sunday service at the church, where suits and ties are in scarce supply but biker regalia is in abundance.

"They don't have to take their colors off," said Senior Pastor J.D. Tew. "They just come."

Cumberland County's branch of Freedom Biker Church got its start in a barn.

Tew had been serving as a pastor at the original Freedom Biker Church in Clayton when he said he felt a call to start a church near his hometown of Autryville.

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NC bikers find Cumberland County worship place