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Burkina Faso

1996

When my wife, Denise and I arrived in Ouagadougou the capital of Burkina Faso we suddenly realized that the “Summit of French African Leaders” was just beginning. About 39 heads of state were there! Oh the security was tight and troops were everywhere. Just carrying the cross would be radical in this desert nation but carrying the cross in the city at this time could be very explosive.

However we felt Jesus wanted us to walk here with the cross and this was the time so we must just do it and pray.

I had a taxi driver take me out on the road to Bobo-Dioulasso. He would drive ahead and then wait for me with water and food. It was hot but the air was dry. I went through many police and army checkpoints. I returned to the hotel in Ouagadougou at night.

When I got to the city center it was guarded by French troops. They were checking the bags of every person entering the area. But when I arrived with the cross they just wanted photos and French gospel material. When I walked off with the cross they all clapped and cheered.

I just must add that in my cross walking around the world the French troops have always been so kind and welcoming of the cross and me. I have come across them dozens of times and the reactions have always been the same.

We had a powerful witness in the city as we carried the cross in a big loop of the city center and also directly in front of the conference area.

Pilgrim followers of Jesus,

Arthur and Denise Blessitt
Luke 18:1