On January 14, 2025, Arthur Blessitt, the Southern Baptist street preacher who famously walked over 43,000 miles with a wooden cross, passed away. His journey commenced on Christmas Day 1969, walking from Los Angeles to New York City with a 110-pound cross on his back, inspiring countless people during his travels. The details of his death were disclosed in a statement on his website, which did not mention the cause or location, although he had been residing in the Denver area.
Arthur Blessitt Passes Away at 84: The Cross-Carrying Evangelist
Arthur Blessitt Passes Away at 84: The Cross-Carrying Evangelist
Arthur Blessitt, renowned for his journey carrying a cross across the globe, has died at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of faith.
Blessitt’s ministry began on the Sunset Strip, where he sought to connect with the youth of the hippie movement, aiming to share his Christian beliefs. His landmark trek across the United States took him six months, after which he claimed to have received divine inspiration to spread his mission worldwide. He made adjustments along his journey, eventually replacing his heavy cross with a lighter, more manageable version to facilitate his travels.
His first international walk occurred in 1971 in Northern Ireland, and from there, he traveled across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia. He remained a symbol of unwavering faith, influencing many with his message of hope and love through the years.
His first international walk occurred in 1971 in Northern Ireland, and from there, he traveled across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia. He remained a symbol of unwavering faith, influencing many with his message of hope and love through the years.
