Vatican City broke away from the traditional, solemn white and breathtaking architecture for a moment Sunday morning as Harley riders strolled in clad in leather and revving their motorcycles. Pope Francis blessed the crowd of thousands of bikers as they gathered in Rome to celebrate Harley-Davidson's 110th anniversary, the Associated Press reported. The Pope wheeled out in an open-top jeep as he was driven through the scores of people who congregated for the four-day celebration.
The Pope even exited his vehicle to meet his slightly unusual guests, shaking hands and kissing those in attendance, Gawker reported. Pope Francis didn't leave the event empty-handed either. He -- or rather his security team -- is the proud owner of two white Harleys, gifted by the motorcycle manufacturer earlier in the week. Engines hummed as the Latin rendition of "Our Father" was recited as he greeted the crowd.
The papal mass regarded a 1995 encyclical on the sanctity of human life, condemning euthanasia, murder and abortion. The juxtoposition at the mass was striking, but Rev. Federico Lombardi, the Vatican spokesman, said it was fair to assume that there were Catholic bikers attending the service as well. He said everyone is welcome to papal mass, regardless of ideas or the way they look.
"I know great people who have big bikes," Lombardi said.
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