'Street Preacher' makes stop in Blytheville

The city of Blytheville will be playing host to a globe-trotting preacher throughout the rest of the week

Former Blytheville resident and ordained minister Duane Lyon, also known as the "Street Preacher," has been traveling the world for the last 28 years adorned with a giant wooden cross and signs reading "Jesus Saves" spreading his message of hope and love.

"It was around Christmas time 28 years ago and I noticed that Christmas wasn't much about Christmas," recalls Lyon. "So I decided to get this cross and a wreath and stand out in my hometown for a week, and a week turned into 28 years."

Lyon has traveled to more than 50 countries sharing his testimony with anyone inclined to listen and enjoying local culture and cuisine. Having visited countries like Trinidad, Finland, Jamaica and most recently, Iceland, one experience really stuck out in his mind.

"I was in Morocco a number of years ago and they found out that I was an American and used to box," he said. "They asked me if I would box that night, and long story short, I cut a deal that I would get to speak and share my testimony before and after each match. I had about seven or eight matches while in Morocco, and that was pretty unique."

After leaving Iceland, Lyon said he felt drawn back to Blytheville, a place he had once lived and worked as a welder during the construction of what is now Nucor Steel Arkansas, but had not visited since leaving a number of years ago.

With Lyon now traveling as a full-time minister, he is able to fund his travels and ministry through the occasional gift from someone in the town he's currently in, speaking engagements where an offering is collected in gratitude to his work and through regular supporters who receive his monthly update letter and donate as a way of furthering his cause. Lyon said he doesn't do this for the money, living a frugal life that allows him to minister full-time

"I've never been caught on the corner with a bucket. I'm an ambassador, not a beggar, and I'll do this as long as God provides a way. But if it comes to it, I can get a job. I still know how to weld," said Lyon.

cpinkard@blythevillecourier.com