Remembering Arthur Blessitt: The Iconic Cross-Bearer Who Touched Lives Worldwide at 84

Arthur Blessitt, a passionate Southern Baptist preacher, made waves in the late 1960s and beyond with his unique ministry. He is best known for carrying a large wooden cross on a remarkable journey that took him around the world. His mission began on Christmas Day in 1969 when he started walking down Sunset Strip in Los Angeles, trying to connect with the hippies and others in the area.

His cross wasn’t lightweight—initially, it weighed 110 pounds. To make it easier to manage, he made some clever changes along the way. He switched from sandals to boots and even added a wheel to the base of the cross. Later, he reduced the weight to a more manageable 42 pounds by using a cross that could be split into two parts.

It took him six months to walk from Los Angeles to New York City. Once he finished that leg of his journey, he felt called to extend his mission globally, claiming he received a divine directive: “Go! I want you to go all the way.”

In 1971, he embarked on his first international trip, visiting Northern Ireland. From there, he traveled across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia, eventually covering an incredible distance of 43,340 miles through many countries.

Arthur Blessitt passed away on January 14 at the age of 84. He spent his later years in the Denver area, where he continued his ministry until his death. His unique approach and dedication to spreading his faith left a lasting impact on many people around the world.



Source link

Blessitt, Arthur (1940-2025),Deaths (Obituaries),Crosses and Crucifixes,Records and Achievements,Walking,Ministers (Protestant),Hippies