Celebrating 50 Years of the Christian Motorcycle Association Inside the 37th Annual 'Run for the Son' and its Global Impact By Jennifer Bailey Staff Writer   Covington, VA (Apr. 22, 2025)— For half a century, the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA) has been more than just a community of riders — it has been a powerful force spreading faith and fellowship on two wheels around the world. As the CMA proudly marks its 50th anniversary, the 37th Annual "Run for the Son" stands out as a testament to its enduring mission and vibrant spirit and will kick off on Saturday, May 3rd at 9 a.m. in the Love's parking lot. The iconic event brings together thousands of motorcyclists united by their shared beliefs, celebrating not only their love for riding, but also their commitment to making a positive impact on Christianity globally. Since its humble beginnings in 1975, the CMA has grown into a vibrant global brotherhood and sisterhood of motorcyclists united by their shared Christian beliefs and passion for riding. Central to this celebration is the 37th Annual "Run for the Son" event which embodies the spirit, mission, and outreach of the CMA. Drawing thousands of riders from around the world, this iconic motorcycle rally not only honors the legacy of the organization, but also highlights its enduring commitment to spreading hope, love, and faith through every mile travelled. An annual fundraiser, "Run for the Son" raises money for many of their evangelism efforts which include, but are not limited to, sending Bibles to various countries overseas and their investment into the Jesus Film Project. The Jesus Film Project is an organization established in 1985 by Dr. Bill Bright and their purpose, according to their website is "to make the most of the incredible outreach opportunities that accompanied the 1979 film adaptation of the New Testament Gospels, JESUS." They also boast to have " Jesus Film Project has translated the JESUS film into more than 2,000 languages, and the film has been shown to billions of people all over the globe." One branch of the Christian Motorcycle Association is located right here in the Alleghany Highlands and they are known as the "Gospel Warriors." The "Gospel Warriors" will be "kickstand up" —according to member Jerry Morgan— at promptly 9 a.m. for anyone who wishes to join in on the ride. The bikers will head straight for Buena Vista, stopping at Peaks of Otter, and also having lunch along the way. The group will also pause for prayer and will likely be ministering along the way. Morgan says they are always looking for new members who share their values and that membership is free for anyone wishing to join. Last year, the "Run for the Son" event raised over $6 million worldwide. Since it started 37 years ago, the fundraiser has made over $100 million and saw nearly 40 million salvations. They are currently accepting donations for the event, all of which will go toward their evangelism efforts worldwide. To make a donation, please visit their website at cmausa.org and click under the "Run for the Son" tab. For those wishing to join in on the ride, you do not have to be a member. Simply meet them in the Love's parking lot at 9 a.m. on May 3rd.

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