Sabbath Keepers Motorcycle Ministry

TONTITOWN, ARK. – Check out the history pages of the Arkansas-Louisiana Conference website and you will discover a jewel of a ministry in the northwest corner of our conference. Yes, we know there are a lot of Adventist believers in that area—the Seventh-day Adventist churches are prolific. But Sabbath Keepers Motorcycle Ministry (SKMM) is different. If you would like to see a ministry that is excited and on fire for the Lord, talk to the Northwest Chapter of Sabbath Keepers Motorcycle Ministry formed in 2015.

I had the privilege of sitting at a booth near theirs during the most recent camp meeting in Gentry, Ark. The stories wafting over from their table drew in all those passing by. So, what are they about? They are a unique ministry that seeks to fulfill the great gospel commission to spread God’s word to members within the motorcycle community or to anyone who has a desire to learn more about Jesus. They receive people in genuine, “come as you are” fashion, just as our Savior did when He walked among common folk.

Members of the ministry reach out by attending motorcycle rallies and other events where they can set up booths with signs and banners identifying themselves, giving away pins, shop rags and spiritual books (including coloring books) with their contact information and logo, as well as GLOW tracts. They make themselves available to listen, to encourage and to pray with those who might be in spiritual need. 

They also “reach in” by presenting Sabbath services for local Adventist churches. There are many who enjoy riding and ministering to others who have become members of SKMM, and there are also those who don’t ride but believe in ministering to those who are considered different and overlooked in our communities.

Recently, in partnership with the Tontitown Seventh-day Adventist Group, SKMM purchased an inflatable Daniel 2 statue in the hope that people will be curious and drawn to the booth so they can explain the prophecies of Daniel.

I encourage you to get to know Rick Thames and the rest of the group to learn more about their mission and work. Check out their Facebook page: Facebook.com/nwaskmm or contact Thames via email at MThames@gmail.com. They would be happy to visit your church and tell you more about the ministry.

By Frances Alcorn