Biker Church Opens Up in Charleston
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Updated: 4:10 PM Jan 26, 2009
Biker Church Opens Up in Charleston
The Chariot House is a church that caters to bikers, but it's opening its doors to everyone.
Posted: 9:34 PM Jan 25, 2009
Reporter: Carrie Jones
Email Address: Carrie.Jones@wsaz.com
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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ)-- Leather vests, boots, and chaps aren't usually considered as church attire, but at the Chariot House, they're welcome.

The biker church held its third Sunday service on the west side of Charleston.

"I've always wanted a place where I can drive my motorcycle right on in the door," said Chariot House founder Albert Hill. " I can do that here."

Hill, along with 11 other guys, came up with the idea for the church. Their dream became a reality when the West Charleston Baptist Church said they could use one of their buildings.

The group wanted a place where they could be themselves without being judged.

"The long hair, the earrings, the patches, the bikes - it all seems to go together for an image to a point that scares people," said Steve Ray, who's another founder of the group. "If the other churches don't want them there or they can't feel welcome, that's what we're for."

Seven ministers will take turns leading the congregation on Sunday. You won't spot a collection plate being passed around either. All the Chariot House has is an actual bread box in the back where folks can drop off donations if they wish.

Brenda Burcham stopped by Chariot House after her regular church service Sunday.

"This is an experience. It's different than what I have at my normal church."

Burcham didn't don a leather vest to the service, but she does ride as a member of the Christian Motorcycle Association.

"There's no need in stereotyping with God," she said. "He loves all of us no matter what we look like, no matter what we wear, no matter what we've done."

While the church was established to give bikers a welcome place to worship, they're opening up their doors to everyone.

The groups hopes that they can make an impact with their Sunday service and in the community.

The Chariot House is on the corner of Florida Stree and 4th Avenue. Their service starts at 2:00 p.m.


Latest Comments

Posted by: Alfred on Dec 3, 2009 at 04:09 PM

As a co-founder of this church, I can say that God is doing a GREAT thing here. People are recieving what they need, LOVE. Let's face it, we all could use more of that. Loving the Ride.
Posted by: Malomojo on Jan 27, 2009 at 06:01 PM

Ok, first off. Who, has the right to judge anyone else but God? To Anon who posted on Jan 26. We sympathize with your baldness. However, your comments are like other goodie goodie Christians who see Church as a club. Pretend to be perfect on Sunday, judge others for the rest of the week. While, behind closed doors you yourself don't serve God the way you should. I applaud this ministry. There are lots of lost bikers out there that need Jesus. Who, really do see guys like the Bald Anon as intemidating. Why? Well, read his statements. Anon, when you get out of your Christian bubble, and acctually get your hands dirty for your Jesus. Let us know.
Posted by: Donna H on Jan 27, 2009 at 12:46 AM

I'll say it again, I think its great to have this church! cause I know I sure would fit right in! And I'm sure there wouldn't be any snobby people there either(sorry folks just being blunt) Like Pablo said Good work Chariot House and God Bless Yall!
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