Day 100: April 16, 2006 5:48 p.m. Church Office

Total miles walked: 1,000

Like a surly grizzly bear awakened from his winter hibernation, I was roused from my lengthy Easter Sunday nap by the ringing of the phone. Gratefully, it was a wrong number. I just wanted to post one last entry to wrap up all the things that we have spoken of for 100 days.

I walked my 1,000th mile yesterday. There was very little pomp and circumstance. I am immensely grateful for the six friends who walked that last mile with me. The last mile was a couple of laps around the Path. We stopped at every scene and gave thanks for every actor/actress and every person who walked The Path. The second Lap was done in silence. It was my way of saying Thanks to God.

My walking buddy made over 500 miles with me. He was there Saturday. God made every mile. He is always there, whether I choose to listen or not is another issue.

The numbers from Path to the Cross are immensely gratifying. There were 150 actors/actresses and 150 other volunteers last week. If you count those who helped with workdays etc. the number grows even more. Over 2,700 people made the walk over three days. I am grateful for every lap around the Path.

Over 2,400 people attended five services here Sunday morning. That exceeds our previous high by more than 350 people. More than that, we were able to worship the God of the universe.

This has been a most rewarding experience. There are some things I know and some I don’t. Will we do Path to the Cross again next year? I think so. Will I walk 1,000 miles again? I think not. Where is the creativity in that? I think I will do something even more creative and demanding next year. I will need the greater focus because people will come in greater numbers and we must be prepared. Will I ever blog again? I know so. The blog will reappear in a few days in a new spot, with a new name, and a new look, but with the same kind of stuff. I will let you know when.
For those who read my blogs, who prayed for me, who walked with me, who served with me, who believed in this vision….I say Thanks!!! It is the most fun I have ever had at church. – Ed