The CMA’s AGM was held at Gateway Vineyard’s Chapel venue in Hellesdon, Norwich and saw attendees from all four corners of the isle, from Scotland, Wales, Devon and Cornwall as well as all points in between. The first thing on the agenda was a Rideout organised by myself, around the Norfolk countryside visiting Coltishall, North Walsham and Aylsham.
There was a photo opportunity in front of Blickling Hall before venturing off to Blackham Station Cafe in Reepham for lunch. Riders then made their own way back to the Chapel in preparation for worship at 1:30 and the start of the AGM itself at 2pm. Mike Fitton, the Chairman of the National CMA brought a word of encouragement from the Bible to the meeting. There were 81 members of the organisation able to vote at the AGM and numbers were bolstered further by supporters and friends who have a passion for motorcycling and sharing the gospel with fellow bikers and scooterists.
This year it was the turn of Norfolk branch to host the annual event (pictured above by Julie Bright), with chairman Alan Brenkley overseeing the organisation. When the AGM meeting had concluded, people either grabbed a takeaway and stayed around until the start of the quiz night or decided it was time to journey home. Every member of the Norfolk branch contributed a round of questions to the quiz with Question Master Adam Baker keeping a tight hold of proceedings. The branch is very grateful to Gateway Vineyard Christian Fellowship for allowing the use of the Chapel for this event.
The following Sunday morning saw approximately 20 riders and other members of the CMA attend the church service at Gateway Vineyard’s Central venue at the Norwich High School for Girls. Bikes were lined up by the entrance and leather jackets with large white crosses on the back were much in evidence in the congregation.
The CMA in Norfolk has a tremendous mission field with bike meetings at Old Buckenham and Whitwell amongst others. Outreaches at the Norwich City Bike Park have all resulted in good conversations where we have shared our faith. We also attend members’ churches to support the member and congregation of the church. We have been invited to speak at church services and welcome this opportunity as members of the congregations have invited their biker friends. Our monthly meetings are usually on a Tuesday evening at various locations around Norfolk, usually at member’s homes.
Rideouts are common but usually quickly arranged due to availability as the group has a combination of retired and working members.
For more information you can text Alan Brenkley, the Branch Chair, 07940 991559 or email alanbrenkley@hotmail.com
Pictured top and above are the Norfolk CMA members at Gateway Central and, below, the wider CMA attendees at Gateway on the Sunday morning. Pictures (C) Keith Morris.
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