Arthur Blessitt’s historic and unprecedented ‘crosswalk’ began in 1969. He has carried a 12 foot tall, wooden cross on foot through wars, deserts, jungles, 307 countries, 7 continents, and 37,352 miles (60,099 km). The Guinness Book of World Records 1996-2007 lists this as ‘The World’s Longest Walk’: equivalent to 1.5 times around the earth at the equator.

 

Arthur states his aim is to tell people all over the world about Jesus. His commitment and dedication to this cause has resulted in meetings with some of the world’s most influential figures including President George W Bush, Yasser Arafat, Pope John Paul II and renowned evangelist Billy Graham, who joined him on his walk.

 

This modern day pilgrim has faced a firing squad, been arrested 24 times, walked through dangerous territories including Iraq, Afghanistan and Sudan. His fascinating life has also incorporated a 40 day fast, a bid for the Presidency of the United States and walking with 70,000 people across Poland.  Coverage of his walk has been featured by major news programmes worldwide. 

 

Arthur says "I love God and I love people.  I try to keep it simple".  Speaking of the walk he said, "Jesus did it!  And it is all for the glory of God. I am but a simple servant follower of Jesus”

 

Arthur also spoke to over 500 people at three meetings of Proclaimers Church at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel, Boundary Road, Norwich.