Arthur Blessitt: A Life of Faith and Perseverance
Arthur Blessitt, a renowned Christian evangelist and missionary, passed away on January 21, 2023, at the age of 84. He will be remembered for his remarkable journey of carrying a cross around the world, spreading the message of Jesus Christ to millions of people.
Born on August 6, 1935, in Memphis, Tennessee, Blessitt grew up in a Christian family and developed a strong faith from an early age. He became a born-again Christian at the age of 16 and felt a calling to serve God. In 1969, he embarked on a journey that would change his life forever – carrying a cross around the world.
Over the course of 37 years, Blessitt traveled to 322 countries, covering over 37,000 miles, and shared the Gospel with millions of people. He faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions, cultural differences, and physical exhaustion, but his faith and determination kept him going.
Blessitt’s journey was not without its challenges. He was arrested several times, including in the Soviet Union, China, and North Korea, for preaching the Gospel in countries where it was not allowed. He was also attacked and beaten on several occasions, but he never gave up.
Despite the obstacles, Blessitt’s message of love and redemption resonated with people from all walks of life. He met with world leaders, including the Pope, and shared his story with millions of people through television, radio, and print media.
Blessitt’s cross, which he carried with him throughout his journey, became a symbol of his faith and a reminder of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The cross was made of wood and weighed over 100 pounds, but Blessitt carried it with ease, often for hours at a time.
Throughout his life, Blessitt was recognized for his tireless efforts to spread the Gospel. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II and was named one of the "100 Most Influential Christians" by Christianity Today magazine.
Arthur Blessitt’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the millions of people who were inspired by his story. His journey serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with the world.
As Blessitt himself said, "The cross is not just a symbol of sacrifice, but a symbol of hope. It’s a reminder that God loves us and that He is always with us, no matter where we are in the world."
Arthur Blessitt may be gone, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His story is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the impact one person can have on the world.
