Rick and Carol Rickenhagen
Motorcycle & Prison Chaplaincy
Many years ago a young pilot and his wife obeyed God's call to minister along the Arctic coast. Rick and Carol Rigenhagen became missionaries and began to dip their plane into and out of hunting and fishing camps in Alaska. Bringing out their Bibles, bass guitar, flute, and other instruments, the Rigenhagens preached in sermon and in song. They helped construct a mission in a village called Nuiqsut. They transported missionaries, food, and supplies across ice, land, and sea.
It was thrilling work, but after twenty years the Rigenhagens traded airplane outreach for motorcycle ministry. Now they're nationally appointed biker chaplains. They've forged strong bonds with Christian bikers and connect well with hard-core bikers who don't normally mix with ministers. The Rigenhagens have also ridden their Harley into the hearts of two of America's least noticed--the elderly and the imprisoned.
Carol and Rick work together in all facets of motorcycle ministry; prison is the only exception. Officials grant her occasional access to safer areas of the prison. Otherwise her chaplain-husband goes solo. Carol became accustomed to his work with inmates years ago, after a prison minister first called. "Rick, Would you be willing to come to the Bannock County jail with your black leathers on to try ministering to the incarcerated bikers that are here? They seem to be a total different culture, and do not relate to our white shirt and tie chaplains." Rick said yes and Carol is comfortable with his decision.
"When you do what God has called you to do," Carol explains, "there is no fear. Only a peace knowing that you are touching a people the Lord said we are to touch and visit--Matthew 25:34-36."