Walk for Peace monks arrive in Petersburg, spend night at Virginia State University
VENN
Editor's Note: The story has been updated to include new information.
PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) — A group of Buddhist monks on a 2,300-mile walk for peace from Texas to Washington, D.C., has arrived in Petersburg.
About two dozen monks and their rescue dog, Aloka, embarked on the cross-country journey to the capital last year to promote national healing, unity and compassion, according to organizers.
The trek, now in its 98th day, arrived in Petersburg in the afternoon on Saturday, Jan. 31.
Police said the group traveled on Route 1 from Dinwiddie County, taking Washington and Wythe streets into Petersburg. Petersburg Police escorted the monks through the city and closed outside lanes of the streets for the group's safety.
Walk for Peace monks arrive in Virginia, on the way to Richmond
According to a social post from Walk for Peace, the group will spend the night and rest at Virginia State University. Organizers noted that the group will not have visiting hours at night.
They're set to leave the area early Sunday morning, heading toward Colonial Heights. Police noted that many factors can change the monks' schedule, including the incoming inclement weather.
As Central Virginians meet the monks and encounter the walk, and since the journey is a moving meditation, here are a few things police said residents should pay attention to:
- Keep the route quiet, peaceful and deeply respectful.
- Do not walk with the monks.
- When greeting the monks, place your hands in prayer and bow.
- Don't present gifts other than flowers as a sign of respect.
- Don't touch the monks. No handshakes, hugs or high fives.
- The monks may avert their eyes as a sign of respect.
- Be mindful that some monks take vows that prohibit contact with the opposite gender.
As of the time of reporting, the pilgrimage is set to conclude in Washington, D.C. by Feb. 11. According to a map tracking the monks’ journey, they’re expected to arrive in Richmond on Sunday, Feb. 1.
To follow along the monks’ journey, check this map for their live location and this map for the route overview. Visit Walk for Peace for daily updates and more information.
