Skip to main content
SnapScope
PoliticsGlobal

Forever on the Road: The Legacy of Arthur Blessitt

Arthur Blessitt, the man who trekked across the globe with a cross, passes away at 84, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of faith and perseverance.

By Clay RisenSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Forever on the Road: The Legacy of Arthur Blessitt
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

Arthur Blessitt, a dedicated street preacher, gained fame for his remarkable journey of carrying a 110-pound cross over 43,340 miles around the world, inspiring many along the way, and he passed away recently at the age of 84.

---Arthur Blessitt, a passionate street preacher known for carrying a cross worldwide, has died at the age of 84. His journey began on Christmas Day in 1969, when he set out from Los Angeles to New York City with a 110-pound wooden cross. Totaling 43,340 miles, Blessitt’s mission led him through every continent and numerous countries.His journey wasn’t just about the distance; it aimed to share his Christian beliefs, targeting a range of communities from hippies in Hollywood to people around the globe. He adjusted his cross along the way, eventually using a lighter, split model that made travel easier.After finishing his initial trek across the U.S. in just six months, Blessitt felt compelled to embark on an international mission, following what he described as a divine command to "go all the way.” His travels took him to diverse parts of the world including Northern Ireland, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as he spread his message of faith. His death was announced on his website, though details surrounding it remain unclear. Living in Littleton, Colorado, Blessitt leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire those who seek to share their beliefs and make a difference.

Topics

More on this story