A record-breaking 180,000 motorcyclists gathered at Portugal’s Fatima shrine on Sunday for the annual Pilgrimage of the Blessing of Helmets. The event, organised by the ABC (Blessing of Helmets Association) along with national and international motorcycle clubs, is a significant moment of faith and protection for bikers. The pilgrimage began with a parade featuring bikers carrying Our Lady of Fatima’s statue, followed by a Mass during which helmets were blessed.
Father Carlos Cabecinhas, the Rector of the Sanctuary of Fatima, described the event as a time for bikers to seek God’s protection and express their faith. With 8,938 motorcycle accidents, resulting in 124 deaths and 766 serious injuries in Portugal in 2023, the need for safety and divine intervention is evident. The motto of this year’s pilgrimage was “We are shaped and guided by what we love,” emphasizing the importance of faith in guiding bikers on their journeys.
The annual blessing of helmets has grown in popularity over the years, becoming a significant pilgrimage for motorcyclists around the world. The event not only serves as a time for bikers to receive protection and blessings but also as an opportunity for them to come together, socialize, and share their love for motorcycles. With the largest turnout ever recorded this year, the Pilgrimage of the Blessing of Helmets in Fatima continues to be a cherished tradition for bikers seeking both spiritual and physical protection on the roads.
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