A pastor with cancer walks 100 miles carrying a cross to raise awareness for suicide prevention.
Richard Pope is the pastor of Canvas Church in Salisbury, Maryland. Just before he launched the church earlier this year he was told he has terminal cancer.
Even though its a new church, and its opening was delayed because of covid, Pope was preaching the gospel through small community groups.
The most recent example of Canvas’ community work came last month, when Pope led a 100-mile walk that ended at the church to raise awareness for suicide prevention and share the Gospel, as shown by the cross he and others carried throughout the walk. Each day for five days, Pope, his wife, and a few church members covered at least 20 miles.
Others joined the Hope100 Walk at various times. Salisbury mayor Jacob Day, a major in the Maryland National Guard, went 15 miles in his combat fatigues and a rucksack. On the last day, around 25 members of Canvas Church walked alongside Pope. Just as many came from other churches and the community.
The Hope100 brought media attention for its address of mental health and was done in honor of Salisbury police officer Aaron “Bull” Hudson, local resident Joseph Fabber, and Pope’s cousin Michael Smith. All three lost their lives to suicide.
Pope is already planning the next walk. He says he plans to increase the distance and bring in more churches.