RAGBRAI and Hospitality
RAGBRAI—the yearly bicycle ride across the state of Iowa—has many kinds of participation as well as many wonderful surprises for bicycle riders. My wife Debbi and I had one great surprise on Day 4 of RAGBRAI this year. As we rode into one of the first towns—St. Charles—we encountered a friendly group of church people outside their church building. These kindly Christians had a table full of useful items—different kinds of nutritional snacks as well as hand sanitizers that came with a clamp that riders could attach to whatever bag or part of their bike they wanted . . . as well as other useful items. A guest book awaited for riders to sign and indicate where they currently lived. A few chairs were out for weary riders to sit. Large garbage waste receptacles were out for riders to dispose of trash properly. The church doors were wide open for people to go in and see the sanctuary or take a rest or pray.
Mostly, what made this stop so enjoyable was the kind and enthusiastic way that church folk were welcoming and chatting with riders. As I had many different small tasks I was doing at this stop to prepare myself and my bike for riding more miles, it did not register what particular church it was. Then, I looked up and saw the sign that you can see in the photo. My oasis of heaven, the one-stop-shop for my riding needs of the moment, the friendly people who welcomed us riders with a smile and with kind conversation . . . was none other than a Disciples/Methodist yoked church! What a delight it was that “one of our own” churches offered this great and needed hospitality in such a Christ-like way.
Thanks be to God for the gift of St. Charles Parish!!!
Rev. Doug Pfeiffer, Disciples minister and RAGBRAI rider
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