Huntsville biker ministry welcomes everyone with road names, leather jackets, and open arms.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Sunday service looks different at Biker Church Huntsville. There are no suits or ties—just leather jackets, boots, and the rumble of motorcycle engines outside Antioch Church.
The congregation is part of Wheels of Faith COC, a non-denominational ministry that started more than a decade ago inside Black Water Hatty’s Bar. What began as informal gatherings has grown into a thriving community centered on one simple principle: everyone is welcome, exactly as they are.
“The whole thing is unique about our church because we love everybody,” said Jeff “Sasquatch” Ponzini, associate pastor. “We don’t discriminate because you look different. We don’t discriminate because you can’t afford nice clothes or you’re an alcoholic or you’re a drug addict.”
At Biker Church, tradition takes a backseat to authenticity. Every member receives a road name—a nickname given by Pastor Carl “Shotgun” Elliott that reflects their personal story or a memorable moment.
“Everybody gets the road names by something that they’ve done, either a mess up or something that has been crazy in their lives,” Elliott said. “We call [Jeff Ponzini] Sasquatch because of his size. Me, I’m known as Shotgun.”
Beyond Sunday worship, the church rides together and serves the community. Currently, members are organizing a coat drive, collecting blankets, gloves, and hats in bins placed in the church hallways. Once the bins are filled, they will deliver the items to Manna House and distribute them among Huntsville’s homeless population.
Ponzini said the biker community is often misunderstood, shaped by Hollywood stereotypes rather than reality.
“The truth of the matter is the bike community has the biggest giving heart out there,” he said. “When anybody needs help, they’ll be there. They’re going to be the ones that don’t want any recognition. They just want to go out and help somebody.”
The church meets every Sunday at 5 p.m. at Antioch Church. Motorcycles are optional and membership is open to anyone seeking community and acceptance.