Get your motors runnin'

Rock Springs Baptist Church Pastor Brian Harris (right) and bike enthusiast Robert Anderson take time for a photo during preparations for the Ride for the Rock fundraiser. Members of Rock Springs Baptist Church have come to expect the unexpected from their pastor, Rev. Brian Harris.

Through the years, he has kept the congregation's attention during sermons through the use of jokes and dressing up as Bible characters like the three Wise Men, Joseph the earthly father of Jesus and Satan.

Lately, Harris' sermons have not required him to leave his suit and tie in the closet. However, that could soon change.

The pastor was decked out last week in a yellow and black biker's suit as part of a way to drum up support for the second annual Ride for the Rock motorcycle run.

"We're all a little nuts out here, so it makes doing stuff like this very fun," Harris said.

Approximately 60 bikers participated in last year's motorcycle run. The event raised more than $4,000, all of which went toward the Rock Springs Baptist Church building fund.

Many of those who took part in the inaugural Ride for the Rock came from local bike clubs. Rock Springs Baptist Church member Robert Anderson expects the clubs to come out in large numbers again this year.

"They've put fliers up in the clubs and a lot of them have said they are coming," Anderson said.

His daughter, Kings Mountain, N.C., High alum Jessica Anderson, came up with the idea for the event last year as part of a senior project needed to satisfy graduation requirements.

She received an A for her work with the motorcycle run. Now a freshman at the University of South Carolina, she is planning to return home for the fundraiser.

"Jessie can't wait for this year's rally," said her mother, Pam Anderson. "I think she's more happy that she doesn't have to speak this year."

The church has set a goal of 100 participants for this year's ride.

The pastor said he will be one of those taking part in the festivities, though he will not be on the back of a motorcycle.

"You'll find me on my bike," Harris said, "hopefully being able to beat them back to the church."

Following the bike ride, a hot dog lunch will be served at the church.

The Ride for the Rock will take place Oct. 25, with bikes lining up at 10:30 a.m. and departing from the church at 11 a.m.

There is a $10 registration fee. T-shirts will also be on sale.

For more information, call Pam Anderson at 704-937- 3400.