For Father Carlos Cabecinhas, in a video message released by the Helmet Blessing Association (ABC) on their Facebook page, “the blessing of helmets has become one of the major events and one of the great pilgrimages to the Sanctuary of Fatima in recent years.” In 2022, an estimated 160,000 motorcyclists were present.
“It’s a moment for reunion, a moment to see friends again (…), but also a moment of prayer, a moment to ask for God’s protection,” said the rector of the Sanctuary of Fatima, urging participants to be “particularly attentive to safety conditions,” given the road accidents involving motorcyclists.
The 9th Helmet Blessing Pilgrimage, in addition to ABC, includes in its organization the Motorcycle Group As Mal Estimadas, Motorcyclists Association Eclectic Squadron of Security Forces, Motard Club Os 300, Motard Group Moto Andanças, Moteros de Hoy, Motard Group Matuzas de Ponte Sor, and the motorcycle clubs of Seixal, Borba, Mértola, and Portel.
Under the theme “We are shaped and guided by what we love!”, the pilgrimage will begin at 10:30 AM, with the gathering for the banner pilgrimage near the Basilica of the Holy Trinity, followed by Mass at the precinct altar at 11:00 AM.
Associated with the pilgrimage is a sale of merchandise, with proceeds going towards the purchase of an adapted wheelchair for a 23-year-old resident of Peniche who became paraplegic following a motorcycle accident in 2021.
Fundraising for a social cause has long been a tradition associated with the Helmet Blessing Pilgrimage.