(VIS/Vatican Radio) This weekend, Rome will have a unique soundtrack coming from the
roaring pistons of some 35,000 Harly-Davidsons that, since yesterday, have begun to
invade the capital for the 110th anniversary celebrations of the American motorcycle
maker's founding. There is also room for faith among the rumbling engines, leather
jackets, and elaborate tattoos. Events began early this morning with Cardinal Angelo
Comastri, archpriest of the Vatican Basilica, saying Mass in St. Peter's Basilica
for two thousand of the participants. Also, 1,400 bikes with their riders will be
blessed by Pope Francis at the Sunday Angelus as the Via della Conciliazione leading
up to the square becomes a parade route for the motorcyclists. St. Peter's Square
will welcome all the other Harley-Davidson riders and enthusiasts—on foot—who didn't
win a ticket for their bike.