Arthur Blessitt, a renowned Southern Baptist street preacher, has died at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith exemplified through his extraordinary global pilgrimage with a cross.
Arthur Blessitt: Iconic Cross-Carrying Evangelist Passed Away at 84
Arthur Blessitt: Iconic Cross-Carrying Evangelist Passed Away at 84
Street preacher made global impact by walking over 43,000 miles with a cross, promoting his faith.
Arthur Blessitt, who dedicated his life to carrying a cross around the world, passed away on January 14 at the age of 84. His death was confirmed via a personal statement on his website; however, details about his passing, including the location or cause, were not disclosed. Blessitt had been residing in the Denver area where he operated his ministry from Littleton, Colorado.
Beginning his remarkable journey on Christmas Day in 1969, Blessitt embarked on a 2,800-mile trek from Los Angeles to New York City, hefting a 110-pound wooden cross. As he traveled, he made adaptations, such as switching from sandals to boots and incorporating a wheel to assist with the burden. The cross later became lighter, transitioning to a 42-pound model that could be dismantled for shipping convenience.
During his six-month journey across the United States, he felt an imperative calling to reach beyond national borders; thus, he began his international travels. His first overseas venture took him to Northern Ireland in 1971, followed by extensive travels across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia. Throughout his lifetime, Blessitt covered an astounding 43,340 miles.
Arthur Blessitt’s commitment to spreading his religious message amidst the counterculture movement of the 1960s, particularly on Sunset Strip in Hollywood, was characteristic of his ministry, which included operating a Christian coffeehouse near a strip club. His devotion, fervent preaching, and dramatic cross-carrying journey inspired many, manifesting both rituals of faith and acts of service that garnered a diverse following.
Beginning his remarkable journey on Christmas Day in 1969, Blessitt embarked on a 2,800-mile trek from Los Angeles to New York City, hefting a 110-pound wooden cross. As he traveled, he made adaptations, such as switching from sandals to boots and incorporating a wheel to assist with the burden. The cross later became lighter, transitioning to a 42-pound model that could be dismantled for shipping convenience.
During his six-month journey across the United States, he felt an imperative calling to reach beyond national borders; thus, he began his international travels. His first overseas venture took him to Northern Ireland in 1971, followed by extensive travels across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia. Throughout his lifetime, Blessitt covered an astounding 43,340 miles.
Arthur Blessitt’s commitment to spreading his religious message amidst the counterculture movement of the 1960s, particularly on Sunset Strip in Hollywood, was characteristic of his ministry, which included operating a Christian coffeehouse near a strip club. His devotion, fervent preaching, and dramatic cross-carrying journey inspired many, manifesting both rituals of faith and acts of service that garnered a diverse following.
